Lesson 7 - Assignment

[Amethyst Rose]

Due: July 5


1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.

Bonus:

Design your own spread. Explain the layout and meaning of the cards in those positions. Do a reading on yourself or one of your group members using this spread. Describe the outcome. You do not have to post the reading.

[FaerieGothMommy]

Just letting you know, as this is quite a big assigment (not complaining, i'm really looking forward to getting started on this :) ) anyway, i will do as much as i can when i can and save to word pad, then copy and paste my whole assignment here. Just letting you know :)

[Amethyst Rose]

Okie... though I didn't think it was that big. :)

[FaerieGothMommy]

Okie... though I didn't think it was that big. :)

I think what makes this a biggie for me is having to do 2 readings, as i have just offered 5 readings out in the tarot forum :) So, it's finding time to fit them all in. I guess, technically, nope it isn't a big assignment, but having some readings to do already makes it a little more difficult for me to fit them in.. I don't mind one bit, i love reading my cards.

[i_am_serenity16]

I have absolutely nothing to do today so I figured I'd get this done... hope it's good...


1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.
My signifier card is the Queen of Cups. I’ve always felt drawn to that card and she turns up in many of my readings. Her personality is similar to mine… caring, trusting, kind, always ready to lend an ear, give advice, and a shoulder to cry on. I’m also quite moody and tend to be depressed easily and often for no reason at all. This matches the description of the Queen of Cups so accurately it’s a bit scary… I can’t see my signifier being any other card.


2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.
I found this spread in the Tarot section of this board…I couldn’t find a name for it.


1----------2-----------3
------4----------5

1) Your current life direction
2) The lesson you're learning
3) What you're moving toward
4) Your long-term objective
5) What will help you attain your objective

I thought it’d be good to do a reading like this for myself right now. I would like to post my reading (if that’s not ok Amethyst let me know and I’ll take it down), so here it is…

Card 1: III of Cups. When looking at this card I get a vibe that people are requesting something of me… that those around me are seeking some kind of attention from me. But even though these people are requesting attention they are not demanding it or making me uncomfortable. This applies to me at the moment because I have a lot of people around me who want some kind of recognition for something… my parents for finally stepping up and acting like parents… my friends for being so loyal to me and not leaving me in my time of need… my band for keeping me as a bass player even with all of my problems and also for my putting up with me while I struggle to work on my bass playing abilities. It seems everyone around me wants some sort of recognition for the things they’ve done for me, this would be what direction my life is currently going.
Card 2: Knight of Wands. To me this card means self-assurance. That in order to accomplish your goals you will need to be self-assured. I feel that in this particular reading this card is warning me that self-assurance is good but not to be cocky or egotistic. This applies to me because lately I’ve been getting a bit big headed… not overly big-headed but still have become a little hard to work with when I really think about it.
Card 3: Knight of Pentacles Reversed: This card seems to be screaming financial responsibility at me… That in order to be financially secure in the future I need to stop overspending and cut back a bit. So this applies to me because I have been a bit irresponsible money-wise lately… I’m no longer working and have been seeking a new job, so I really need to watch how I spend my money. And I feel the tough times are just beginning.
Card 4: Ace of Pentacles Reversed: To me this card really just seems to be reinforcing the previous card… that even though money may get tight I must keep my head up and yet be careful in order to succeed in finding a long-term job (which I am thinking is the goal I’m working toward that the spread talks about).
Card 5: IV of Swords: This card really Seems to be telling me to take a middle of the road position in any disagreements and to sort of keep to myself for the time being. It also seems to be warning against impatience…which is a problem of mine. Basically meaning to be patient and conservative to find a job.

I noticed that the most common suit was the suit of pentacles, which to me signifies that the main subject is really about money and financial problems. Also, I found it a bit interesting that both of the reversed cards in my reading, were also the only 2 pentacles in the reading.

[Amethyst Rose]

I don't mind that you posted your reading - I like seeing your thought process and how the readings are going, anyway. I just don't want people to feel they have to and be uncomfortable - confidentiality and all that.

I think that that reading is very interesting for you, and you caught the patterns nicely. :)

[i_am_serenity16]

Thank you!!! :D

[FaerieGothMommy]

AR, I just finished my bonus assignment (creating a spread and using it on someone) well i've only just noticed you said, use it for yourself or a group member. I actually done it for my mom - is this still ok? Is it ok to post this, or would you like me to do another reading for myself or group member?

[Amethyst Rose]

Go ahead and post it, it's fine. :)

[FaerieGothMommy]

Ok, here goes :)

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

As i related to the Queen of Cups so much in assignment 6, i will pick a signifier from the major arcana instead.

The Hermit : This card really depicts me so accuratly, that i just had to go with this. I would choose this card as a signifier because, i hold these personality traits, especially at this time in my life, and i will go into personal detail to show how it relates to me so well right now.
I suffer with social anxiety and i am already a shy person. I stay indoors a lot and avoid socialising, yet, i crave to be social as i know it is unhealthy for me to not socialise with other/new people, and due to this, i am having to do a lot of soul searching kind of like to try and find out who i really am, what upsets me, what makes me anxious, situations i feel most comfortable in, and work around these. To me, this is what the hermit card signifies. It signifies a time of soul searching, in order to find out the real you. But it can also hold a message for the querent "don't become too reserved and with-drawn", keep ahold of a certain amount of independance, as it can become risky becoming too withdrawn.
I think, when this card appears in a reading, it will indicate the querent is currently going through a stage of solitude, delibratly being alone so they can concentrate on themselves and what they need/want. But as i said before, it can also indicate that too much solitude can lead to the querent becoming withdrawn and distant to other people.
This is how i am right now, and so i would definatly choose The Hermit as my signifier at this point in my life.

2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.

I am going to be doing a reading using a spread called "Dark of the moon spread" which i found on the internet. This spread is used for looking inwards, and examining where your life is at in a personal view, i thought this would be appropraite reading for myself at this time.

Layout -
1......................4
.......2....7....5.....
3.......................6
1. Releasing - Things you need to let go of in your life.
2. Keeping - Things you should be holding close to you.
3. Recieving - New things that are coming into your life.
4. Surroundings - How the world around you is affecting you.
5. Giving - What you should be giving to others.
6. Beginning - Something new that will begin soon.
7. Your lesson - What you need to be learning at this point.

I am doing this reading for myself.

1. Three of Cups - This is a positive card, and so can make it tricky reading it in this position (things i need to let go of in my life), so the way i see it is, i need to let go of being uptight and rigid with myself, i need to start enjoying things more and taking advantage of the good times. I can be very stubborn with myself at the best of times, and this restricts me from doing a lot of things, and at this time in my life, i find it hard to enjoy things and to let things go smoothly. This is definatly something i know i need to start doing. I think this can also mean to stop hiding myself, and stop feeling so alone and sorry for myself, i need to get myself out there and meet new people. Because life should be fun and enjoying, not sad and restricting.
2. The Emperor - To me, this means that the things i should be holding close to me, is my strong sense of will. It's something that i find hard to let out. I am always too ready to let myself down and disappoint myself, and point out all the mistakes i make. I hardly ever hold my ability to see things in a different view close to me, to realise how strong i am within - because i know i am, but it is a matter of letting this trait come out into the open.
3. Nine of Swords - As this position is about new things coming into my life, i would have expected a positive card to appear. To me, this shows that without using my strong ability as shown in the card above, i will carry on worrying about things around me, and things inside my head. Things will start to torment me, and so i see this card as a warning that if i don't let the positive things enter my life, it will be much harder to get the negative out. I view this, as a card showing me i need to stop worrying and being negative and fretting over things that don't matter, in order to let the new things into my life.
4. Four of Pentacles - I always say, money is what my problems always boil down to, as you always need money to do anything in life now a days. So this card to me, is signifying that how the world is affecting me comes to financial, i have a need for posessions and money, and it can come across as being vain and just wanting money to satisfy my greedy needs, and this is what it has come to, when infact it started out as just needing money to get myself out the house. This can get to a point though, where money rules ones life, and i think i should try and make an effort in finding things to do that don't involve money.
5. Princess of Cups - I find this fits in really well with this position. I really like to think i have a talent when it comes to tarot reading, and i like to try and be creative with this, yet there is still an element of doubt within myself that i can read tarot cards. I think, what this card is indicating as it is in the position of "what i should be giving to others" is, i need to use my talent more often to offer guidance, don't be doubtful about what i can do, as this may hinder it. I think, it's saying i need to be a bit more responsible and make a bit more effort.
6. Five of Swords - Now, this card is usually viewed as negative, but to me in this position i see it as a positive thing. As this reading is about inward and not external things, it represents my inner self. To me, it shows my old self being lost and my new found confidence coming out! This will be new for me, and so i think it won't be an easy ride, there will be struggles and conflict on the way, but this is something i should stick to and really make the effort.
7. The Wheel of Fortune - I find this a great card to appear in this position (what i need to be learning at this point). To me it shows constant change within myself, and constant learning about how the way things work and what works for me. Life is full of all sorts, and so we need to make the most of the positive things that enter our lives, this is something i especially need to focus on at the moment. I also feel that this shows that everyone holds different personality traits, and instead of focusing on my bad points, i need to focus on the many good points and work off of them in order to progress.

Outcome : This is something really different for me. I usually do spreads that are mostly focused on external things going on in a persons life, so the results were really interesting when looking at the cards from an inward point of view of myself, i viewed them differently to how i usually would in some areas, i didn't expect to see the cards that did appear, but they meant a lot to me at this point in my life. So, i am pleased with how the came out.
I found that the Nine of Swords and the Five of Swords were closely linked, firstly both of the positions were "new things that are coming into your life" and "something new that will begin soon" and oddly enough, both these cards are usually seen as negative, where as to me, i could see the positive in what they were showing me.
Two of the opposing cards that appeared in my spread were The Wheel of Fortune and Four of Pentacles. The four of pentacles was in the position of "how the world around me is affecting me" and i seen this card as a restriction, i am letting money issues affect me and restrict me. the Wheel of Fortune was in the position of "what you need to be learning at this point" and this is about free-flow and learning to enjoy change, and be accustomed to it.
Another two opposing cards were Three of Cups and Nine of Swords. the Three of cups is seen as a very positive card meaning joy and celebration, but it turned up in my spread in the position of "things you need to let go of in your life", so this to me was indicating i need to enjoy life more. The nine of swords was in the position of "new things that are coming into your life" and again it seems a strange one to get in what would seem a positive position, but it is positive to me in my own way, because it's a warning that if i don't follow what the other cards are suggesting such as the Wheel of Fortune, then i will be carrying on worrying and fretting over things that are not worth it.

Bonus:

Design your own spread. Explain the layout and meaning of the cards in those positions. Do a reading on yourself or one of your group members using this spread. Describe the outcome. You do not have to post the reading.

I wanted to design a spread that was a little different to usual and had something to do with elements. So, i used all the elements, including spirit. I still felt it was a bit dull, so i decided to use the represented elements for each suit. Earth = Pentacles, Air = Swords, Fire = Wands, Water = Cups and Spirit = Major arcana. So, i seperated the pentacles, swords, wands, cups and major for each card to represent different aspects.
I called the spread the Elemental spread.

Layout -
......................1.......................
..............5...............2..............
..................4.......3..................
1. Spirit (using major arcana only) - Inner strengths, benefits and what may help you.
2. Earth (using pentacles only) - Work, money, posessions, sense of security.
3. Air (using swords only) - States of mind and conflict, obstacles and resolution.
4. Fire (using wands only) - Energy, action and power.
5. Water (using cups only) - Relationships, friendship, feelings and emotions.

I decided to do this reading on my mom. She had asked me for a reading, and i had been busy, so i thought i would use this spread on her. She has also given me permission to post it for the class.

1. The Tower - This card shows me that you are able to overcome and deal with sudden changes quite well. This is what represents your inner strengths and what will help you on your way. The tower shows me you have just gone through an unexpected change, an incident which you wasn't really ready for, but you have dealt with it very well, and this is an area that can benefit you. It seems sudden events is what keeps you going, and so you need to take advantage of this, and see it as an opportunity in a positive way, rather than negative - as though everything has gone down hill, because it hasn't and it won't, remember, this represents inner strengths and benefits.
2. Knight of Pentacles - It is around about now that you are looking back on what you have achieved and gained. And it's at this point that you must be sensible - the Knight of pentacles can be a message telling us not to be irresponsible with our posessions, but rather nurture and take care of them.
This card shows financial growth, and at this time you need to protect and nurture your finances.
3. Princess of Swords - You may have a tendency to act before you think, but this comes across as your defensive side. You don't like threats, and although you come across as vunerable and one who prefers to avoid conflict, you will cause conflict if anyone threatens you in anyway, or if you feel threatened.
At this time in your life, it may be worth being firm and standing your ground. It's also about not being too harsh, as this can cause too much conflict and this is something you especially need to avoid. Be confident in what you choose to do, and don't let others presuade or pressure you inot anything different.
4. Seven of Wands - You are probably feeling right now, that there is all sorts of things being thrown at you, and currently you are trying to push them away a little, as it can get too much. These things can be anything from obstacles, problems, decisions etc. This card is cloesly linked with Princess of swords - as it is saying, you need to stand firm and not let these issues all around you pressurise you, or else it can cause worry and doubt about the choices you make.
5. Two of Cups - This card shows you in a relationship, and this relationship seems quite balanced and fair in how you see and do things. Yet, it shows that you are not as committed as your partner is. This time should be used to spend time with your partner, to see what it is you really want from a relationship with him. It represents union and cming together, and so i feel that to keep the relationship going strong, you need to commit more to it.

Outcome : I'm pretty pleased with the outcome of this, especially as it was so different, seperating all the suits and majors, but this worked very well and i will be using this spread again. My mom said her reading was accurate :)

[PeleRising]

Due: July 5


1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

I am going to choose the Queen of cups for my signifier card. I tend to be ruled by my emotions, I love to help other people and will often worry and invest a lot of time and energy in their problems. I tend to be depressed, and withdrawn at times… With the descriptions that AR posted the Queen of Cups seems the most like me which is why I chose it.



2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.

I choose to do a spread called Triskele that I found on the net at the following site… http://www.byzant.com/tarot/spreadtriskele.asp (http://www.byzant.com/tarot/spreadtriskele.asp) . The Spread is laid out like this

http://www.rainnhawksaerie.com/spreadtriskelesmall.gif

Card one: Important events, issues and attitudes surrounding the question or event. I drew The King of Swords. A strong authoritative person often a man but can represent an attitude. As there is no strong military bearing man in my life (hubby is a teddy bear) I take this card to represent an aspect of myself. I am the boss in my family in some aspects. I am the Mom.. the one who often makes and enforces the family rules. The one most often to say No to my children- I am the “boss” I am a strong personality especially when it comes to my family. Sometimes I can be unyielding. I tend to hold onto things and not let go… Once a decision is reached (and that can be a challenging thing for a libra like myself) I will stand firm unless knocked off that perch.

Card two: Current obstacles, problems, conflicts and opposition that the questioner must deal with… I drew the 3 of swords. This card says so much to me. My mother died in 95, father in 99… I have had several falling outs with friends, which to this day I don’t understand… and more recently an event in my family between my sister and brother which has torn what is left of our family apart. While I realize it says current obstacles… even though my mom died 10 years ago, I am still dealing with the repercussions of this… I suffer from depression, some social anxiety, and at times would rather just stay holed up in my home then venture outside. Often my days seem gray with no sunshine in sight although this is slowly changing.

Card three: Past events or influences that have played a role in bringing about the current situation, I drew the Knight of cups. In the past I have tended to romanticize things, not worrying about money or more serious things. I tended to see the world through these lovely rose colored glasses… if I don’t see the problem its not there kind of attitude. I have tried to see the good in things and ignore the bad…


Card four: Future events and fresh influences about to come into play that will operate in the near future I drew the high priestess. This card speaks to me of introspection, moving within, knowledge and living spiritually.

Card five: The eventual outcome of events shown by the other cards I drew the 10 of swords. I seem to be pulling this card a lot lately. This card speaks of hitting the bottom, things being the worst they can before getting better. I sometimes see the distant light on the card as either dawn or sunset… depending on the situation. Today I see this card as a time of putting my troubles behind me… that yes these things have happened but in order to embrace the promise of the High Priestess card in position 4 its time to let go of my troubles that have haunted me in the past.

What I see in this reading: I am carrying a lot of issues with me that I need to heal and then let go of. My future is laid out in front of me… the High Priestess card represents to me many of the things I am moving toward, but I need to let go of many of the things that are holding me back… so that the sun can set on the pain and baggage and then rise on a new day… as is shown in my final card.

There are 3 different swords in this reading… cards 1, 2, and 5… They all seem to be representing problems in my life… an unyielding, “Im not gonna let go” attitude, pain and loss, and the bottom of the barrel place I sometimes find myself.


(Interesting side note… While the reading I just described was pretty self evident to me, it had a message I didn’t care or want to hear. So after working with it for a while I decided to reshuffle the cards and redo the spread. Interestingly enough, many of the cards were similar… and I shuffled very well. These were the “new” cards I drew…

Card 1: King of Swords
Card 2: Justice
Card 3: 3 of Swords
Card 4: The Emperor
Card 5: 10 of Swords

Those swords really wanted to be heard I guess)


I will attempt to get to the bonus section later. :)

[LisaT4P]

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/RGareth/SwordQueen.jpg (from Druidcraft Tarot)
I almost always use the Queen of Swords as my significator. I feel that this card suits me through astrological associations (I'm a Gemini) as well as the general temperament of the card. I tend to trust logic before intuition and I try to subscribe to Occam's Razor (sword anyone?) in that the simplest explanation is often the right one. I seem to be cold and harsh to some, but I think it's mostly my "no nonsense" approach to things, particularly tarot, that offends people.

2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.
I chose to use the Light & Shadow spread as conceived by earth en lady at Aeclectic Tarot. I like this one because it forces me to use a significator, which I usually do not do. I was also very intrigued by this one, and I've even included it in the 2006 Tarot Lover's Calendar. :) (shameless plug). Here is a link to her spread: http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=42765

Here are the cards I pulled (reading for myself):
Significator: Queen of Swords (facing right)

Light: 5 of Pentacles
At first glance, this seems to be a strange card for "Light", since this is usually interpreted as a "Dark night of the soul" kind of card. But, my view of this card is that, while you may be in trouble, you can always ask for help and receive it. You may be suffering, but you still have hope and potential. The support group is there if you will just swallow some of your pride and as for the help you need. This might be a great card for an alcoholic who is trying to recover. (no, I'm not one, it was just an observation. ;) )

Moving into shadow: The Lady reversed (empress)
Lack of inspiration stifles your creativity. You don't feel like you are capable of creating, you feel as though you are just tapped out.

Shadow: Prince of Cups reversed
And here is the reason for the lack of inspiration. Since this reading is for me, I can interpret this as a lack of romance. Not really my hubby's fault, but there's just no spark in me at all lately. Just sort of shuffling along, and not passionate about anything. My creative side is often inspired by feeling passionate about something, and since that's not there, the Lady in reverse makes sense.

Moving into light: The Sun reversed
Feeling overwhelmed and burnt out. Doing so much that you don't have anything else to give. Drained. This is a perfect card to lead into the "Light" for me. I am feeling this way, but I need to realize that the "Light" is in front of me and I just have to ask for help to alleviate some of this feeling of being over-worked & under-paid. My family and friends are there to help me. :) Since this spread works in a cyclical fashion, it also reminds me that unless I DO actually ask for help, I am doomed to repeat the cycle and I'll just be "spinning my wheels".

The card relationship that strikes me here is the Sun and Lady cards. The Lady is the mother of the Sun / Son. So, since she is the originator of creativity and the Sun is the fruit of her labor, it is interesting the Prince of Cups (in my reading representing passion and love) comes between them. If the Prince of Cups is not there, then there can be no Son / Sun, literal or metaphorical! :hehehehe:

Great spread. It reveals alot even though the card positions aren't too specific in how they can be interpreted. Alot is left up to the reader and I really like that. I highly recommend this spread. Great job, earth en lady!

Bonus:

Design your own spread. Explain the layout and meaning of the cards in those positions. Do a reading on yourself or one of your group members using this spread. Describe the outcome. You do not have to post the reading.
Recently I was discussing the significance of the God in our lives. In the pagan sense of the word "God". A friend of mine who is new to the pagan path, has said that she has trouble relating to the God because of the christian view that she was raised with. Whenever she thinks "God" she thinks of a stern figure who is going to punish her.

So, I thought I'd come up with a spread that can help with this very familiar problem. So many of us come to this path with those same thoughts about God and deity and we begin by embracing the Goddess. Some of us come to revere the God as well, and understand the dual nature of deity, but some of us have a harder time than others.

So, here is a simple 3 card spread that can be expanded upon, but is a good start to discovering the God in our lives.

Card 1: What is my current relationship with the God?
Card 2: How can the energy of the God help me in my life?
Card 3: How can I invite more God energy into my life?

Using this spread, I've done a reading for myself:
1. Ace of Wands
No surprise here. I often view the God as the divine spark. He works with the Goddess and provides her with some inspirtation and the push to get things done. Without that push, I'd be sitting around doing nothing and just thinking about my projects. Sometimes I need a fire lit under me. :D There is also the shape of the wand, but we don't need to get into that, let's try to keep it at least PG-13. ;)

2. The Hermit
I tend to keep to myself alot and not force my opinions on others. If someone wants something from me, they know where I am and how to find me. The God may be able to help me to come out of this shell a little bit and offer myself as a teacher, rather than me forcing everyone to seek me out. Showing me how to let the light of my lantern shine a little brighter, instead of smothering it in my cave.

3. Eight of Wands
Movement. I need to get up and move, on several levels. Perhaps I should harness some God energy and get myself going. I need to exercise more, study more, get my ideas in motion instead of just chewing them over and over. I tend to sit back and plan, and to over-analyze things and never act on them. If I invite the God into my life some more, perhaps he'll shoot a flaming arrow in my butt and get me going again! :hehehehe:

[Nellie]

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.
I see bits of myself in both the Queen of Pentacles & the Queen of Cups. Both cards represent yin, though all queens have some association with the yin element. I have to say that this surprises me, as until recently (maybe the last 12 months) I would have put myself as more of a yang person and even though I still can be when called for I've now changed my outlook on life and consider myself to be more yin.

The Queen of Pentacles represents contentment with oneself. Gone is the ego and instead is a genuine selfless person. Nothing to hide, at peace with herself. She appreciates all that is around her without questioning or judging. She accepts her role in life, not because she has resigned herself, but because this is part of life's great plan. Everyday is a new adventure and another lesson to learn. She is at one with nature and enjoys her own company. A reliable worker and a empathetic friend to have.

The Queen of Cups is my favourite card from the Druidcraft Tarot. I was immediately drawn to it. This card represents the inner person, spirituality, intuition and psychic ability. Nurturer, healer, she is an optimistic queen who holds up the chalice as if giving an offering of hope and peace. Her strength comes from within. She has calmness and patients and is willing to give up her time for others. She is very in tune with her emotions & those of others around. Empathy, love & kindness!

While I don't hold all these attributes at present I feel I am on my way to being more at these Queens represent. I am learning to listen to my inner self and to use my intuition more. I'm also learning to be calmer & patient with myself & others though this is an ongoing process. However I feel more content with my life now than ever before and am learning to let go of my ego. I accept that what happens in life is all part of a learning curve & as my signature states, its not what happens but how one handles it.


2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.

The spread I have chosen is from the Druidcraft Tarot accompanying book. It is called The Spirits of the Circle Spread & is used for help in determining the influences that are affecting your life, and to explore your sense of identity, in search of the answer to the perennial question, "Who am i?"

2-----7-----4
-------1
5-----6-----3

Card 1 - The Self (This card represents how you feel at this time, or the issues you are facing in your life.)
Princess of Wands

Card 2 - Spirit of the Ancestors (This card may offer insights into the way you are being influenced by your genetic ancestry or family.)
The Hanged Man

Card 3 - Spirit of the Tribe (This card can suggest how you are being influenced by your friends, and by the culture or community that surrounds you.)
3 of Cups

Card 4 - Spirit of Time (This card may offer insights into the way you are being influenced by the times you are living through, by your age, or by the life-stage you have reached.)
8 of Swords

Card 5 - Spirit of place (This card can indicate how you are being influenced by your home, or by the area, or country you live in.)
9 of Pentacles

Card 6 - Spirit of the Journey (This card can shed light on the way you are being influenced by your past lives.)
2 of Pentacles

Card 7 - Awen (This card may offer insights into the way you are being influenced by Spirit.)
The Star

Outcome - I was surprised by the Princess of Wands in The Self position. This is definitely not how I feel or about any issues I face - other than I could do with some of that energy. I totally associate with The Hanged Man in position 2. I kinda already knew this and have previously made positive attempts to move away from this line of thought. Card 3 I was pleased with and shows me that I share and have deeper understanding with my close friends. Card 4 is definitely me at this stage in my life, while card 5 is very much how I feel about my home and surroundings. Card 6 I am unsure about and am unsure how to interpret past life positions, while card 7 has made me very happy & hopeful. Will try to keep this reading in my thoughts & hopefully it will help me deal with current issues in life @ present!!

[phoenix1010]

My Signifier
Definitely the Queen of Cups. I am getting ready to go to nursing school which would be the healing aspect of the card. The jobs I have enjoyed the most are the ones where I interact with people directly (which is interesting since I am quite shy). I also tend to be very sensitive, very emotional...it is very easy for my feelings to get hurt. I have struggled with depression on and off for many years.
Before I read the interpretations AR put up I would have picked the Queen of Wands based on the imagery on the card. The queen on the Queen of wands card is facing you directly. In her left hand is a sunflower, right hand has a wand in it. There is a black cat at her feet. She looks off into the distance like she is watching something, her head is held quite confidently. Sunflowers are one of my fave flowers, I always seem to acquire black cats in my life, and I like how confident she looks.

The spread I chose is from that Tarot forum, I'll call it the heart spread. It is about a relationship.
FYI I am 10-10-1972 and my hubby is 5-20-1967.

--------1/3------2/4--------
-----5------12-------6------
---7--------------------8----
-----9--------------10-----
------------11----------

Card three crosses Card one, Card four crosses Card two.

1. My view of the relationship: 6 of pentacles (R)
I feel that I give alot and my hubby just keeps taking.

2. My partner's view of the relationship: Lovers (R)
Possibly a lack of intimacy. With his long work hours and all the housework we are just both to tired.

3. What crosses me in the relationship (obstacles): Strength Sometimes I feel I have a lack of strength. I don't always stick up for myself, or speak my mind or tend to let people walk all over me. we also tend to have problems communicating to each other.

4. What crosses my partner in the relationship (obstacles): 6 of CupsMy hubby tend to be stuck in the past. He thinks he can do what he used to do before marriage and the baby but we just can't afford it anymore. He can also be very childlike, selfish.

5. How I see the other: 8 0f swords I feel he may feel trapped by the relationship. Marriage and a baby was a bit more than he bargained for. Overwhelmed by it all.

6. How my partner sees me: Page of wands This card has me a bit confused. I read through some different meanings of the card and I almost feel it should be reversed. To me it feels like my hubby doesn't always like me that much. He has often told me I am ruining his fun.

7. What do I need from this relationship: 4 of pentacles We are constantly living from paycheck to paycheck and have no savings. I wish we could get our finances in order...financial security.

8. What does my partner need from this relationship: Moon (R) This card has me a bit puzzled...Are there fears my hubby needs to deal with? Feelings that are unsettled

9. What does the relationship need to strengthen it: 5 of Wands We need to find balance among the struggle of life. We need to deal with our problems and find a way to get some calmness among the chaos of life.

10. Hidden factors. What are we not seeing or aware of: Justice I think there is a serious balance problem in this relationship in various catagories..money, daily chores, etc.

11. Where is the relationship going: 5 of pentacles (R) If take things seriously and deal with our issues things should get better.

12. A picture of the two of us. How we fit or don't fit: Hanged Man We are stuck in suspension, transition. We need to get unstuck and move on.

Overall: The major arcana is very well represented, may be indiating there are some major issues we need to deal with. There are three pentacles, 2 wands, 1 sword and 1 cup. Balance seems to be an overwhelming theme.

[Khaelo]

1) My signifier: For the reasons laid out in Assignment 6, my signifier should probably be the Queen of Air or Queen of Water, depending on the context of the reading. On Myers-Briggs tests, I tend to come out on the line between T (thinking/head/air) and F (feeling/heart/water). By age and life circumstance, I should be a Knight/Prince, not a Queen, but the Queen personality fits better. Youthful energy is not my thing. :p In the Major Arcana, the Hermit would be my choice. It's an internal, solitary, seeking nature, which is very appropriate for a spiritual introvert. In addition, the deity whom I associate with the Hermit is veiled. Veils are both isolating and protective, allowing some communication, maintaining some privacy -- a perfect metaphor for my general attitude towards life.

Queen of Cups and Hermit are popular choices. :)

Personally, I don't like using signifiers in readings because that means that that particular card, which is obviously be significant to the querant, is prevented from coming up naturally.

2) A Spread and Sample Reading
The spread I'm using is from Seventy Eight Degrees of Wisdom by Rachel Pollack. It's called the Work Cycle, designed for advice rather than just an overview of a situation. She based it on the Celtic Cross and her own interpretation of the Major Arcana (journey of the Fool-person). I've never tried a spread with this particular focus. It's also open-ended; the reader can add extra cards as needed.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v621/khaelo/layout.png
A) Inner (being)
B) Outer (doing)
1) Past Experience
2) Expectations
3, 4, 5) Work
6) Outcome
7) Result

In Pollack's scheme of the Major Arcana, she arranges the 21 numbered cards into lines of seven. The first two cards of a line are the person's starting point (archetypes/qualities needed), the next three are the stages the person must work through (either overcome or incorporate), and the last two are the results. This is the template used for the Work Cycle line.

The author advises using a Significator card, but I opted out. The minicross goes on top of the Significator and is apparently interpreted much as the Celtic Cross minicross is. This means, checking Pollack's version of the Cross, that the vertical card is some basic quality of the querant or situation, an inner glimpse. The horizontal top card shows how that basic quality translates into action, influence, outer conditions.

In the line, the first two card positions are keyworded to Past Experience and Expectations. Together, they form the launching pad. The next three are fairly vague. As a unit, they indicate what kinds of possibilities are available -- what can be done, what resources there are, what the situation is currently, what paths are open from here. If necessary, they can be individualized as Others, Self, and Events from left to right, but the author recommends reading them as a group first. The last two cards are Outcome and Result, by which Pollack means the likely turnout of the situation and the person's likely reaction to it, respectively. If there is confusion, or more questions about the cards' results, the reader can simply lay down a second line of seven cards.

The reading:
A) Inner: King of Swords reversed
B) Outer: 2 of Staves
1) Four of Cups
2) Three of Staves
3) Strength reversed
4) Fool reversed
5) Ten of Swords
6) Three of Coins
7) Seven of Cups

Ack...I asked for family advice, and that's what I got. :twitch: No major trends: two each of Swords, Staves, Cups, and Majors, one Coin. Two Threes -- one in Expectations, and one in Outcome. Both of the trumps are in the Work section. Overall, I found the pictures to be far more accurate than the Little White Book. In the post, I'll talk about interpretations pretty generally because the particulars are personal.

When the King of Swords reversed turned up, I recognized him immediately. Upon checking LWB, the person-profile doesn't fit, but the situational one does. The personal-profile would fit better if one takes the card as a reversed King of Air, rather than this deck's Fire. The cover card (2 Staves) is people being all nice and functional. Things don't look like they're falling apart. But I know what comes later in the Staves suite. The situation isn't nearly as stable as it seems. That basis King is going to burn everything he touches, if he isn't doing so already.

The starting cards are 4 Cups and 3 Staves. Past Experience (4 Cups) is a family in the process of breaking. The man and woman turn away from each other, the woman clutching the child tightly. Expectations (3 Staves) also shows an icy couple. LWB talks about the couple's reaction to the third-party petitioner; I see the woman turning away from the man as well as the petitioner. Together, the cards speak of shaky relationships and the expectation of more of the same. I think it is significant that in neither card has the couple actually separated (yet). At the end of the suite stories, the Cups family reunites happily. The Staves man ends up alone and in pain.

The Work cards look, well, bad. Strength reversed and the Fool reversed, both cards depicting young people, look like potential thwarted, passivity, weakness and immobility. The Ten of Swords isn't exactly a cheerful card, either. :p The woman holds the man, who lies on the floor bleeding from a stab wound. As their own unit, these cards suggest problems. Taken with the start of the line, they suggest a self-fulfilling prophesy: potential killed off at the gate, the acorn never planted, too much caution, despair and thinking things worse than they are. Advice, though? Not clear, at least not to me.

Outcome (3 Coins) is more optimistic. The woman triumphantly holds up her coin, her completed project. for the world to see. The number is the same as the previous 3, Expectation, but the scene is one of individual accomplishment, not broken relationships. Following up on the line, the Outcome hints that something beautiful might come of figuring out that run of dark cards. The Result (7 Cups) shows the man asleep, dreaming of the woman. As a unit...triumph in art (relevance to question/rest of line?) could lead to greater dreams, possibly a passive disconnect from reality in favor of visions? Erm...

I think I'm going to use this second-line option. :)

Fun, fun, fun:
1) Priest reversed
2) Knight of Swords
3) Devil reversed
4) King of Staves reversed
5) Lovers
6) Four of Staves reversed
7) Six of Swords reversed.

Past experience: Tradition turned on its head, stability lost, freedom, conversion, abandonment.
Expectation: Rebellion, anger, passion.
Work: Freedom, release. the decline of chaining influences, defying the darkness. King of Staves reversed: ??? It's right under the reversed Fool, maybe stagnation? Advice of caution, rather than signalling too much caution? Lack of confidence? Lovers: We're back to the couples theme. This card turned up right under that wonderful 10 Swords. Is this an optimistic grouping? Guarded optimism, "proceed with care"?
Outcome: Staves man and woman cuddle (grrr, not them again!). They look happy, but the card's upside down.
Result: 6 Swords, Rider-Waite derived image of woman on boat, alone and meditative. Like 4 Stave before it, the image is peaceful but the card is reversed. Why is the icky ending on the decent-looking line and the nicer ending on the downer line?

Lots of Staves and Swords.

Okay, so I'm having trouble pulling together the whole advice thing. Some cards make perfect sense, but then it all falls apart near the end. (Doesn't help that I've been doing this reading, interrupted on and off, for several hours now. :p) I'm reading'd out and can't find the key to tie it all together.

[Catiana]

Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

I think that my signifier card is The Hermit. Because of his solitude and his seeking of spiritual knowledge.





Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.

I used the Influence of Element spread

Card 1 is Spirit – the spiritual health of my life. – Knight of Wands - This card’s meaning is possibility of sudden change of residence or job – quick action is needed to resolve some issues in your favor; things are moving forward: I think that this card in my spiritual health is saying that my pursuit of spiritual growth is moving forward.

Card 2 is Air (East) – the mental part of life – Queen of Pentacles. This card’s meaning is strong feminine influence with a strong loving nature. This will be a time of quit contentment with life; a period of strong psychic feelings make you more aware of spiritual goals - Think that this card in the mental position means that I am mentally focused on spiritual growth.

Card 3 is Fire (South) – the energy or movement of events – Queen of Wands. This card’s meaning is a feminine influence who is socially active could aid you in some way. You achieve success in a goal, a round of social activities brightens you life. Time for reaping good rewards from your labors. I think that this card is saying that I will achieve success in my goal of finding spiritual peace.

Card 4 is Water (West) – emotional state – Knight of Cups. This card means unexpected visit from someone you admire; remember a dreamer who is balanced accomplishes much. May have a pleasant activity with someone you care for deeply. I think this card is saying I need to balance my emotional state to accomplish my spiritual goals.

Card 5 is Earth (North) – physical self. Four of Pentacles – This card’s meaning is you or someone close to you is very money oriented. Indicates a person who has an unhealthy grasping control of finances. You could receive gifts, even a possible inheritance. I do not understand how this card related to my physical self.

Outcome: The outcome seems to be pointing to spiritual growth and enlightenment.

[Khaelo]

A little late for bonus points, but oh well. I had insomnia last night and came up with this spread. This is another advice-oriented spread, based loosely on a simple past-present-future 3 card spread. It's 7 cards plus an optional signifier. The arrangement looks like an arrow. This may not be the most original spread, but I haven't seen anything like it before. :)

Direction spread:
----7-----
--5--6---
-2--3--4-
----1----
----S----

S) Signifier optional. I used one for my test because it makes the arrow shape come out nicely. :cutie: The topic was job hunting, so the signifier was the Chariot reversed, representing a situation with lack of movement, control, and victory.
1) Focus. This card gives definition to the question. The test reading turned up the Ace of Coins, which is a more positive spin on the question than the signifier. The focus will be the inception of productivity and material success.
2, 3, 4) Past. These cards show past influences that are leading into the current situation. Depending on context and necessity, they may either be read as a group or as individual influences. The test turned up two which reinforced each other and a third which indicated a separate influence coming in (Two of Cups reversed, World reversed, Queen of Swords).
5, 6) Present. These indicate the current position or situation, the launching pad for the future. Like the Past cards, they may be collective or separate. The test ones were together (High Priestess, Fool reversed).
7) Where To From Here? / Direction This is the advice card, the card which indicates the direction best followed given the information contained in the arrow. The test gave the Empress for this position.

The test seems pretty accurate, and I was pleased with how the spread turned out. The cards certainly cooperated with the format, leading from Ace of Pentacles (Focus) to Empress (Direction). I like using a spread of my own design because it means less time wasted checking paperwork for position meanings. It also means that the spread is more intuitive and accessible to my idiosyncracies.

[Naiad]

So sorry it's late I've been bogged down by coursework and I kinda got grounded and banned from the internet :fprisoner but I'm allowed on now yay! And all my coursework is finished!

My Signifier Card

The Fool

I feel that this card represents me best because at this point in my life I have my whole future ahead of me. I can choose any path I want. I’m about to enter my last year of mandatory education and after that…well the world is my oyster. I can do what ever my impulses tell me to and I want to experience things and explore. In my deck the keyword for this card is Potential and that is what I feel like I have. I have the potential to be what I want and to do what I want with little getting in my way. I do know that I have to keep my head though and have a little control and that there will b limits to what I can do.

Alternative Spread

Artist Spread

.........................7
......................6
...................5
................4
.............3
..........2
.......1

1. How the past affects the future
2. How the project affects you right now
3. How to begin the project
4. How to continue the project
5. How to finish the project
6. How to share the project in a way that will lead to...
7. ...The future

I found this spread on Aeclectic and it was designed by someone called Artemis Sans. It’s designed for artists not necessarily the painting type because the author of this spread used this for a screenplay she was writing. The project in question for me will be a surreal final piece that I am doing in art at the moment and will finish when I start school again in September.

My reading outcome:
1. Pope (Hierophant)
2. Empress
3. 9 of Air
4. Father of Air
5. Mother of Air
6. Son of Fire
7. 2 of Water

In my reading I got two major arcana cards and three cards from the suit of air. In a nutshell this reading tells me in the past I was caught up in trying t copy other people’s styles instead of trying to find my own. Now I need to take due care and attention with the project and to begin it properly I need to sort through all my ideas and pick the select few which are the best. To continue with my project I’ve got to iron out all the wrinkles and sort out the problems instead of just leaving them like I have done in the past. To finish I have to use all the techniques and knowledge I’ve picked up over time to make it as good as it can be. To share the project I have to basically shout about it from the rooftops. Make a big show of it; this will lead to me meeting someone. I’m not sure about the last card but the others seem about right but I had a bit of trouble deciphering 4, 5 and 6. The others I seemed to pick up the meaning of them pretty quick.

My Spread

Five Animals

1. Snake – Outcome, Present, what action to take
2. Dragon – Near Future, Decisions that need to be made in the future.
3. Tiger – Threats, obstacles to be aware of.
4. Phoenix – Far Future, inspiration
5. Tortoise – Past

I based this spread on the Five Animals of Feng Shui. Each of the animals has an element, colour direction and a job to do. I used these in the layout of the spread and what each card represented. It is also a variation on the 5 card spread. You can use this spread as a general spread or you can use it to help make decisions and answer questions. It’s a little confusing though because all the animals face forward but forward in this case is south.

Snake – The Snake is the centre and the pivot for all the animals and seasons. It’s associated with yellowy brown, the colour of Earth. It stands in the middle protected by the other 4 animals on all sides. It is also able to direct them. It takes information from them and uses that information to take wise action. I used this card to represent the outcome and also where to put a signifier if wished.

Dragon – The Dragon is in the East, its colour is green and the element it belongs to is Wood. The Dragon can see into the future and makes important decisions based on information gathered by the birds. It’s a figure of stability and has amazing power. I chose this to represent the near future because of its foresight and also because of the decision making aspect.

Tiger – The Tiger is like an armed guard at your side. Its colour is White and has attributes to the West, autumn and Metal. The tiger is essential to survival but must be controlled. It can detect the presence of threats and represents the danger of violence in our nature. I used this card to represent threats and obstacles I our paths.

Phoenix – This bird flies far in the front and sees far into the future and for this reason it represents the far future in my spread. The phoenix has associations with Fire, Red, Summer and the South. The phoenix creates intense excitement and inspiration.

Tortoise – Ever steady and stable the tortoise creates security behind us because it is there we nee never fear attack from behind. I think the tortoise is there to remind us what’s done is done and the past can’t harm us. For this reason I chose it t represent the past. The tortoise is in the North and its colour is black, its season winter and is associated with water.

My reading outcome:

For the first time I used a signifier and it was the Fool.

1. 8 of Fire
2. 4 of Air
3. 3 of Air
4. 10 of Water
5. 2 of Fire

That suit of Air seems to have come back again and I also got two from the suit of Fire this time. This indicates to me that in the past I’ve had to make a decision as to where to direct my energy and this is true although it didn’t work out for the better. It also says that I will soon have to face something that will hurt me a lot. In the near future I should take a break from things, have a rest and clear my head. In the far future things will work out and I will have happiness and friends and family who are there for me. I think the outcome is that I’m going to change and things are going to change. I’ll be hurt but I’ll get over it and carry on and things will really take off after that.

The layout of my spread is below.

Sources: The Feng Shui Handbook by Master Lam Kem Chuen

[Niamh celtic mist]

1. My Signifier Card


My Signifier card is the Magician.


The Magician represents the awareness of our tools and skills. A

commitment to learning and growth, Open mindedness, Sorcerer,

Alchemist, The Trickster. Having all the tools you need to channel

power. The negative side of this card is Close mindedness,

Unwillingness to learn, Not knowing your own potential, Clumsiness,

and just dabbling in things and never becoming a Master in any of

them.

I have always felt drawn to this card. The more I studied it the more

things I found that I could relate to.

I have always believed that we have a power within us. My search for

this power has lead me on a journey of seeking and aquiring knowledge.

I have never been satisfied to remain a student...when I learn

something I try to find ways to incorporate it into my life. I also

try to find ways to share my knowledge and assist people. I am like

this in my Mystical life and my professional Life(I'm a Nurse).

I am also aware of the negative aspects of this card in my life. The

tendancy to think that I have all the answers. The feeling that I do

not need to learn more about certain things. The danger of not

focusing on one thing at a time in order to accomplish something or

follow it through. Becoming bored easily.

My life has always been about balancing these things. Its just like

that saying...Knowledge is power and with power comes responsibility.

Too much of one and not enough of the other is never a good thing.



2.The Happy Birthday Layout


I found this spread while reading Lleyellen's 2005 Tarot Reader. It

was in an article entitled Tarot and Astrology by Christine Jett.

What I like about this spread is the way in which she has blended them

together. I also discovered while doing this spread that The Magician

is the card that represents my ruling planet-Mercury. Neat! She

encourages people to use this spread in private or professionally as

long as she is given proper credit. To use this spread you will need

to find your Ruling planet card, your Polarity Card, and Your Sun

Card. To do this use the following list.


Tarot Card Correspondences

Dates of Sun signs vary slightly. You may have been born on the Cusp

of a sign, which means your birthday falls on the transition day

between one sign and the next. If this is so, you can determine your

true sun sign by using a simple computerized birth chart, using the

date, location,and exact time of your birth.

Aries(March 21-April 19)
Ruling Planet: Mars (The Tower)
Polarity: Libra (Justice)
Sun Sign Card: (The Emperor)


Taurus(April 20-May 20)
Ruling Planet: Venus (The Empress)
Polarity: Scorpio (Death)
Sun Sign Card: (The Heirophant)

Gemini(May 21-June 20)
Ruling Planet: Mercury (The Magician)
Polarity: Sagitarius (Temperance)
Sun Sign Card: (The Lovers)

Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Ruling Planet: Moon (The High Priestess)
Polarity: Capricorn (The Devil)
Sun Sign Card: (The Chariot)

Leo (July 23-August 22)
Ruling Planet: Sun (The Sun)
Polarity: Aquarius (Star)
Sun Sign Card: (Strength)

Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Ruling Planet: Mercury (The Magician)
Polarity: Pices (The Moon)
Sun Sign Card: (The Hermit)

Libra (September 23-October 22)
Ruling Planet: Venus (The Empress)
Polarity: Aries (The Emperor)
Sun Sign Card: (Justice)

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)
Ruling Planet: Pluto (Judgement)
Polarity: Taurus (Hierophant)
Sun Sign Card: (Death)

Sagitarius (November 22-December 21)
Ruling Planet: Jupiter (Wheel of Fortune)
Polarity: Gemini (The Lovers)
Sun Sign Card: (Temperance)

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)
Ruling Planet: Saturn (The World)
Polarity: Cancer (The Chariot)
Sun Sign Card: (The Devil)

Auarius (January 20-February 18)
Ruling Planet: Uranus (The Fool)
Polarity: Leo (Strength)
Sun Sign Card: (The Star)

Pices (February 19-March 20)
Ruling planet: Neptune (Hanged Man)
Polarity: Virgo (The Hermit)
Sun Sign Card: (The Moon)



This layout is in the shape of a Birthday candle and it helps to

illuminate your life path. Card one in a horizontal position is the

base of the candle, while cards 2-6 are the candle, and card 7 is the

flame.

Card: 7 Sun Sign Card (from the Above list)
Card :6 The Next Step
Card 5: Birthday Wish
Card 4: Polarity Card (from the Above list)
Card 3: Challenges
Card 2: Strengths
Card 1: Ruling planet (from the Above list)

Find your Ruling Planet Card, Polarity Card,and Sun Sign Card and

place them face up in positions one, four and seven.
Shuffle the remaining cards, concentrating on any concerns that you

want answered.(If it is actually your Birthday, be sure to make a

wish!)
When you are ready, randomly select four cards and place them in

positions two, three,five,and six. Turn the four cards over and begin

your reading.

Position 1: My Ruling Planet Card

The driving energy of the layout. All other cards are read in

relationship to it. If you like this card, it means you are

comfortable with its energy and know how to use it to grow. if you do

not like this card then it indicates that need your attention. It is

the dominating energy around you. Become attuned to the lessons it

has to offer.

Position 2: My Strengths

Where you shine, your talents and abilities. Where the energy flows

without resistance. What to keep and nurture because it makes you

strong. If you do not like this card it indicates areas that are

blocked and needs work. If youn work with the message of this card

you will release its energy and gain strength. Look to see how this

card relates to your Ruling Planet Card. Note any complements or

conflicts.

Position 3: My Challenges

Your life lessons or energy blocks. What you need to face in order to

grow. Areas where you get stuck and may keep repeating the same

patterns. If you like this card..try reading it in reverse.

Sometimes there is to much of a good thing. Explore this card

carefully in all its forms. If you still feel comfortable with this

card it means you are facing your challenges head on and doing the

work you need to do. Also relate it to your Ruling Planet card. Note

the complements and conflicts.

Postion 4: My Polarity Card, The Sister Sign

The opposite of you, showing your dual nature. What you need to draw

toward you and attract in order to feel complete. Polarity, your

opposite, is your sister sign because the energy is like your own Sun

Sign in a complementary way. This is the duality, or balance, of you.

The card may make you uncomfortable because it feels foreign to you.

It may feel like your evil twin, but rest assured this card is

you--the other half of you. The question of this card is what do you

need to incorporate into your life to achieve balance. What energy

can you use to be complete? Again, compare this with your Ruling

Planet Card and note the complements or conflicts.

Position 5: What is my Birthday Wish?

This card gives focus to your deepest desires and hopes, the true

direction of your life path, because your dreams and desires come from

your higher self, which is a sacred part of you.If you like this card

it means your are on the right path for the fullest expression of your

Sun Sign. If the card makes you uncomfortable, it indicates energy

that is standing in your way. You will need to deal with this block

before your sacred dreams can become reality. Again compare this to

your Ruling Planet Card and note any complements or conflicts.

Position 6: The Next Step (The Future)

Where do you go from here? What is the next step on your life path for

the fullest expression of your Sun Sign personality? If you like this

card, be glad and look forward to the next adventure. If you don't

like it ..it may indicate an upcoming life lesson. While the life

lesson may be no fun, it will offer you wisdom and make you strong.

You always have the power of choice to change what is no longer useful

and create our own future-or at least face the future with courage and

incorporate the lessons to improve our lives. Again compare this card

with your Ruling Planet Card and note the complements or conflicts.

Position 7: My Sun Sign Card, The Essence of Me

What you were put here to learn, the focal point of this lifetime.

The Sun Sign Card is in the flame of the candle because it shows your

true nature and represents your spirit. It remains constant

throughout the year. It illuminates your concious purpose, your drive

to achieve goals and the "You" you know yourself to be. Bottom line:

do you like this card? How comfortable are you with yourself? How

does Card 7 relate to your ruling Planet Card? Note the complements

and conflicts.

Putting it all together

Look at cards one,four, and seven. Do you see relationships or

conflicts with the driving force of your layout(Ruling Planet

Card),Your Sister Card(Polarity Card),and the essence of you (The Sun

Sign Card)? How can you use cards

two(Strengths),three(Challenges),five(Wishes),and six(The Next Step),

to allign yourself with the essence of your Sun sign personality for

its fullest expression? By studying this layout we can learn ways to

stay on a productive path.

My Reading

Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Ruling Planet: Mercury (The Magician)
Polarity: Pices (The Moon)
Sun Sign Card: (The Hermit)


My Ruling Planet Card is The Magician.

My number two card that I drew for strength was The Emperor. This

card demonstrates my desire for healthy stability, to create an

environment that allows me to function at my best. I seek functioning

order, in home, work, relationships,...I must be careful of making

stifling,stagnating rules and regulations for myself and others. When

compared to The Magician I can see a connection...my desire for

knowledge and the use of it to accomplish goals...I also see the need

to not become blinded by this by excluding the opinions of others.

My number three card that I drew for challenges was The Page of

Swords. I looked at this card in the reverse.I have to beware of over

analyzing. To deal with unusual fears. Thinking too much and

becoming paralyzed into inaction. The swords is the suit of

intellect.. Becareful that the idea of my cause or goal does not lead

to a lack of tolerance for those who do not share the same view. Again

when I compare this card to the The Magician I am able to see the

connection between them. The need to use restraint and remain

openminded to the ideas of others.

My number four card Polarity is The Moon

The need to pay attention to dreams and intuition..to not always look

for the concterte written in stone answer. Face my fears and attend

to my soul. Beware of not seeing clearly...being lead astray by

shadowy images that aren't what they seem. This card really is the

opposite of me..There is a shadowy aspect to this card...of things

that are hidden and are drawn out under the full moon...This is the

part of my inner mystycal journey that I have been trying to

understand. Gaining the understanding of my darker side will

eventually help me to stay focused on the positive message in my

Ruling Planet Card.

My fifth card that I drew for my Birthday wish card was The King of

Swords.

Again I have drawn a card of the suit of intellect. This card is

again showing intelligence is the key to my persona. But, it again is

showing me to seek balance and be careful not yo let my mind turn

inwards..because this can lead to paranoia. I like this card and I

think it is significant that it came up in this position...the

direction of my life path has been using my knowledge to help

others...it is what brought me into Nursing as a career. I also like

the way it compliments the Magician card..but again it is showing the

need not to let knowledge and power corrupt.

My sixth Card that I drew forThe next Step was The Page of Pentacles.

I have had two Pages come up in this reading. This card is showing me

that I am ready for the next level..I have accomplished what I started

and now it is time to move onto something more challenging...It is

important not to become stagnant...in relation to the Magician card it

shows that I must be careful of thinking I have nothing else to

learn...I must not just sit back but I should continue to develope..I

must not become lazy....

My Seventh Card..My Sun Sign Card The esssence of Me


The Hermit--I find this card really is the essence of who I am...The

value of knowledge and the need to withdraw and contemplate...to learn

who I am ...what I believe...What is my purpose...has always been with

me...The danger is that its possible to withdraw to far from and for

the wrong reasons....


Overall I found this spread to be very enlightning. It made me look

carefully at myself, my goals and my path...I saw things I liked and

some thhings I did not like so much...I feel it has really given me

achance to focus on the change I need and also celebrate the things

that I have accomplished.


I wish I could design my own tarot spread but it is not something that

I can do...at this time. It is something I do want to attempt in the

future.

[Amethyst Rose]

That's a really interesting spread...and a lot to type up. Thanks for the hard work. :)

[Niamh celtic mist]

That's a really interesting spread...and a lot to type up. Thanks for the hard work. :)


Thanks!

I love this spread. I thought it would be a great spread to share with everyone. :flowers: