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Post by SummerBoi on May 19, 2003 12:13:16 GMT -5
THE DEVIL (card #15)
ACTIONS
experiencing bondage accepting an unwanted situation being obsessed feeling tied down against your will losing independence allowing yourself to be controlled being addicted and enslaved submitting to another
focusing on the material being caught up in appearances believing only in the physical forgetting the spiritual getting and spending overindulging the senses
staying in ignorance being unaware operating within a narrow range experiencing limitation choosing to stay in the dark fearing the unknown being taken in by appearances
feeling hopeless believing the worst despairing lacking faith seeing a cold world thinking negatively foreseeing a bleak future doubting
DESCRIPTION
Lucifer. Mephistopheles. Satan. The Prince of Darkness. No matter what we call him, the Devil is our symbol for what is bad and undesirable. From our human perspective, we see the world as a struggle between light and dark. We want to vanquish the bad so the good can prevail. In fact, good and bad cannot be separated, just as you cannot separate a shadow from its source. Darkness is simply the absence of light, and it is caused by errors that hide the truth. Card 15 shows us these errors.
First is ignorance - not knowing the truth and not realizing that we do not know. Second is materialism - the belief that there is nothing but the physical. As spiritual beings, we long for the Divine, but we lose contact with this source of truth if we trust only our senses. There is also hopelessness, which robs us of our joy and movement toward the light.
Traditionally the Devil stands for evil, but it does not have this rather frightening meaning in a reading. This card lets you know that you are caught in an unhealthy, unproductive situation. You may be in the dark about something - ignorant of the truth and its implications. You may be obsessed by a person, idea, substance or pattern that you know is bad for you (or maybe you don't!). Sometimes this card reflects back the negativity that has made you doubt yourself and your future. We are prone to many errors in life. Card 15 lets us know when they are serious enough to require attention. When you see the Devil, examine your assumptions carefully. Make sure you are not working from a false picture of yourself and the situation. Hold fast to the highest vision of who you are.
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Post by SummerBoi on May 19, 2003 12:14:26 GMT -5
THE TOWER (card #16) ACTIONS
going through sudden change experiencing upheaval having plans disrupted being surprised undergoing a crisis having routines shaken up being in chaos
releasing exploding having an emotional outburst erupting in anger crashing through ego defenses breaking through pretense letting everything go
falling down being humbled experiencing a crash toppling from the heights having a downturn in fortune suffering a blow to the ego
having a revelation suddenly realizing the truth exposing what was hidden having a burst of insight seeing through illusions getting the answer seeing everything in a flash
DESCRIPTION
The Tower is an unsettling card. Fire, lightning, falling on jagged rocks - definitely looks like trouble! Card 16 will not be welcomed by those who dislike change. It represents a sudden, dramatic upheaval or reversal in fortune. Usually change is gradual, giving us time to adapt, but sometimes it is quick and explosive. This is the action of the Tower.
In films, the hero sometimes slaps someone who is groggy or babbling. Having tried everything else, he finally resorts to a sharp sting to snap him out of it. Sudden crises are life's way of telling you to wake up. Something's wrong, and you're not responding. Are you too full of pride? Expect a blow to your ego. Are you holding back your anger? Expect the dam to burst. Are you stuck in a rut? Expect a surprise.
How you respond to the Tower's change makes all the difference in how uncomfortable the experience will be. Recognize that the disruption occurred because it was needed. Perhaps embracing the change is too much to ask, but try to find the positive in it. In fact, you may feel tremendous release that you have finally been forced in a new direction. You may have a burst of insight about your situation and reach a new level of understanding about it.
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Post by SummerBoi on May 19, 2003 12:15:47 GMT -5
THE STAR (card #17)
ACTIONS
regaining hope having faith in the future thinking positively believing counting your blessings seeing the light at the end of the tunnel feeling great expectation looking forward to success
being inspired regaining motivation realizing an inner strength seeing the way clear being stimulated to a higher level creating receiving the answer
being generous wanting to give or share spreading the wealth opening your heart giving back what you have received letting love flow freely offering with no reservations holding nothing back
feeling serene experiencing peace of mind relaxing finding your still center remaining untroubled savoring perfect calm being tranquil amid trouble enjoying harmony
DESCRIPTION
People have always looked to the stars as a source of inspiration and hope. There is something about their twinkling light that draws us out of ourselves and up into a higher plane. When we turn our eyes heavenward, we no longer feel the distress of earth. The Star reminds me of the clear, high voice of a soprano. There is something otherworldly about it. All the harshness and density of everyday life has been refined away leaving only the purest essence. After being exposed to the Star, we feel uplifted and blessed.
In readings, the Star is most welcome when grief and despair have overwhelmed us. In our darkest moments, we need to know that there is hope,that there is light at the end of the tunnel. The Star is the opposite of the Devil who strips us of our faith in the future. Card 17 holds out the promise that we can eventually find peace of mind. The Star also reminds us to open our heart and release our fears and doubt. If you have been holding back in any way, now is the time to give generously.
It is important to remember that the Star is inspiring, but it is not a card of practical solutions or final answers. Truly without hope we can accomplish nothing, but hope is only a beginning. When you see Card 17, know that you are on the right track. Your goals and your aspirations are blessed, but to realize them, you must take positive action. Use the light of the Star to guide you in your efforts.
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Post by SummerBoi on May 19, 2003 12:16:49 GMT -5
THE MOON (card #18)
feeling fear releasing inner demons feeling a nameless apprehension suffering from phobias giving in to the shadow self lacking courage being overcome by anxieties
believing illusions accepting a false picture deceiving yourself having unrealistic ideas misapprehending the truth experiencing distortions chasing after a fantasy
stimulating the imagination having vivid dreams or visions opening to fantasy plumbing the unconscious entertaining unusual thoughts being outlandish and bizarre
feeling bewildered losing direction and purpose having trouble thinking clearly becoming confused being easily distracted feeling disoriented wandering aimlessly
DESCRIPTION
If you look around the room right now, you will (probably!) see people and objects that are comforting in their familiarity. Everything is exactly as you expect it to be. You know that if you closed your eyes and opened them, the room would be the same. But...have you ever lost the familiar to find, in its place, a world so extraordinary you can't even grasp it? This is the experience of the Moon.
Most of the time we live in a tiny pocket of normality that we wrap around us like a security blanket. We turn our backs on the mysterious universe that waits outside. From time to time we may sneak a peak with our imagination, or venture out through fantasy or expanded awareness. We can be thrust out there unprepared through drugs, madness or intense experiences such as battle.
The Moon is the light of this realm - the world of shadow and night. Although this place is awesome, it does not have to be frightening. In the right circumstances, the Moon inspires and enchants. It holds out the promise that all you imagine can be yours. The Moon guides you to the unknown so you can allow the unusual into your life.
Sadly, we are usually afraid of the Moon. In readings, this card often stands for fears and anxieties - the ones that come in the darkest part of the night. Card 18 also stands for illusions. It is easy to lose our way in the moonlight. Be careful not to let deceptions and false ideas lead you astray. Sometimes the Moon is a signal that you are lost and wandering aimlessly. You must find your way back to the path and your clarity of purpose.
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Post by SummerBoi on May 19, 2003 12:17:53 GMT -5
THE SUN (card #19) ACTIONS
becoming enlightened understanding finding the sense behind the chaos attaining a new level of insight having an intellectual breakthrough getting to the heart of the matter realizing the truth
experiencing greatness achieving prominence being singled out for notice having a personal moment of glory setting an outstanding example shining forth brilliantly demonstrating distinction becoming the center of attention
feeling vitality becoming radiantly energized bursting with enthusiasm experiencing joy feeling invigorated getting charged up enjoying great health
having assurance feeling free and expansive honoring your true self knowing you can succeed being confident believing in your worth trusting your abilities forgiving yourself
DESCRIPTION
Brilliant. Radiant. Sparkling. So many of our words reflect (!) the power and glory of light. When we turn on the light in a room, we illuminate it so that all the dark corners are visible. When we turn on the light in our minds, we are enlightened. We see clearly and understand the truth. Both within and without, the energy of light expands our limits and makes us shine.
Throughout history, people have honored the Sun as the source of light and warmth. In the myths of many cultures, the Sun is a prominent god - full of vigor and courage. He is the vital energy center that makes life on earth possible. In the tarot the Sun also symbolizes vitality and splendor. The Sun is definitely not a meek and retiring card.
In readings, you will understand Card 19 if you imagine yourself to be a Sun God. How do you think and feel? You have total confidence in yourself. You are not he thingyy, but profoundly sure of your power. You have unlimited energy and glow with health. You have a greatness about you and stand out brilliantly. Finally, you see and understand all that is happening within your sphere. When you see this card, know that you will be successful at all you undertake. Now is the time to let your light shine.
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Post by SummerBoi on May 19, 2003 12:19:16 GMT -5
JUDGEMENT (card #20)
ACTIONS
making a judgment having a day of reckoning separating the wheat from the chaff making an honest appraisal getting off the fence using critical faculties taking a stand making hard choices
feeling reborn awakening to possibilities transforming enjoying renewed hope making a fresh start seeing everything in a new light discovering joy
hearing a call recognizing your true vocation feeling inner conviction feeling an impulse to act deciding to make a difference feeling drawn in a new direction knowing what you must do answering a need
finding absolution feeling cleansed and refreshed releasing guilts and sorrows forgiving yourself and others atoning for past mistakes unburdening yourself feeling sins washed away
DESCRIPTION
On Card 20, we see people rising up at the call of an angel. It is Judgment Day, when the faithful are brought to heaven, but what about those who are not saved? Have they been judged and found wanting? For their sins, will they be denied the presence of God? It is this aspect of judgment that is unsettling. How can judgment be reconciled with forgiveness?
In fact, judgment comes in two forms. The hurtful kind says, "What you did is wrong, and you are bad and worthless for having done it." This type of judgment separates and leaves no room for redemption. It is possible to judge without condemning. We assess the matter, weigh all sides and try to discern the truth. We recognize the need to choose and hope for the courage to do so wisely - but without blame.
In readings, Card 20 can be a reminder that judgments are necessary; sometimes you must decide. At such moments, it is best to consider the matter carefully and then commit yourself without censure. If you are being judged yourself, learn from the process. Take what is of value, correct what needs correcting, but never lose sight of your worth.
Card 20 also stands for the feelings that come with salvation. When the angel calls, you are reborn - cleansed of all guilts and burdens. The past and its mistakes are behind you, and you are ready to begin anew. You may even feel a calling - a personal conviction of what you are meant to do. If you are in a low period, in need of hope and absolution, Judgement can show you that renewal is at hand.
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Post by SummerBoi on May 19, 2003 12:20:28 GMT -5
THE WORLD (card #21)
ACTIONS
integrating experiencing wholeness bringing parts together achieving dynamic balance combining creating synthesis joining together working in unison
accomplishing realizing your goals prospering achieving your heart's desire seeing dreams come true flourishing finding a beautiful solution
becoming involved contributing healing rendering a service using a gift or talent sharing what you have giving of yourself feeling engaged being active
feeling fulfilled savoring the present taking pleasure in life enjoying peace of mind getting satisfaction finding contentment counting your blessings
DESCRIPTION
It's Thanksgiving Day. You've just finished a delicious meal, and there's a hot mug of coffee in your hand. Friends and family are arguing about the latest fiasco, the baby's cooing at you from across the table, and your feet are rubbing the belly of a devoted mutt. You're happy, fulfilled and truly thankful (at least until you have to start the dishes!). For this moment, the World and everything in it is yours.
We all recognize this feeling. It can come at any time or place and is always welcome. We can feel it at home raking the leaves or on the world stage accepting the Nobel Prize. It can seem quiet and simple, or wild and glorious. What is this feeling, and where does it come from? Card 21 can help us find out.
A major element of happiness is wholeness - the sense that everything is working together in harmony. Not in a static way, but with dynamic balance. Involvement is also important. To be happy, we must feel connected - engaged with what is around us. There is also accomplishment - knowing that we have goals and are moving toward them successfully. When all these elements come together, we feel fulfilled and blessed.
The World represents these moments and all that goes into them. In readings, it is a very positive sign that you are in a position to realize your heart's desire. What that is for you depends on the situation, but it will always feel great. Remember, though, that Card 21 is a symbol of active contribution and service. To hold the World in our hands, we must give of ourselves to it. That is the source of true happiness.
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Post by SummerBoi on May 19, 2003 13:05:05 GMT -5
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