Elliot Adam's Blog, page 51
December 16, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Queen of Swords
“Assertiveness.”
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The Queen of Swords symbolizes bringing order to chaos through clarity and boundaries. She is also an archetype that does not apologize for her right to have a place at the table. The Queen of Swords stands up to bullies and societal pressures. She questions the legitimacy of structures and rules that do not make logical sense. She keeps an eagle eye on maintaining her strength, integrity, and personal authority.
Are you uncomfortable with setting up boundaries with others because you might look "mean?" Is your career path in harmony with your authentic self? Is it difficult for you to stand up to the pressures of what others think you should be or do?
The Queen of Swords gets a lot of bad press. This is because she is not a docile, submissive or objectified woman. She is too powerful to be minimized by mindless societal roles and conventions. She uses her sword to cut through the hypocrisy of others' assumptions concerning how she should act, and what she should be. She knows that if she bows down to the demands of what others want her to be, she is selling herself short. She places strong boundaries because this is how people and organizations become healthy and grow. She is a master of transforming the energy from victimhood to being victorious (look at her butterfly crown). She commands respect because she respects herself first.
Even modern society still seems to have a problem with seeing women in strong leadership roles. Early on we are taught that women should be "likable" and "selfless," rather than strong, powerful, or ambitious. Women who embody the energy of the Queen of Swords are sometimes ostracized, despised, and ridiculed for no other reason than: "I just think she's a B#%*@." However, some of the best leaders history ever produced were strong women like Queen Hatshepsut of Egypt, Queen Elizabeth I of England, and Empress Catherine the Great of Russia.
Whether you are male or female, the Queen of Swords appears to reacquaint you with your personal authority, strength, and power. You may also need to be more self-disciplined or create some much-needed boundaries. Don’t worry about being “liked” as much as being honest with yourself. Speak up and solve present issues and problems. You are strong and capable.
Do not apologize for your strength, power, or authentic self. Own it.
*Queen of Swords in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Queen of Swords can represent a guarded personality. She (or he) has probably learned in the past how much love can sting. Be patient and pique her intellectual interest. Appeal to this person’s mind and you can begin to appeal to their heart. The Queen of Swords can represent an individual who is attracted to an intellectually mature partner without drama.
Long Term Partnership
For an established relationship, the Queen of Swords can represent a power couple who share mutual professional and life goals. However, physical intimacy can become neglected in this relationship. The Queen of Swords all too easily detaches from physical pleasure, and her partner may require physical intimacy more than she does. Honest communication can help.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, the Queen of Swords encourages you to seize your power. Enjoy your unlimited freedom and opportunities leading toward your best life. Pursue all opportunities that lead toward personal success. The sky is the limit for what you will attain. The love you are looking for will likely find you when you find independent bliss and success.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
December 15, 2022
The Card of the Day: Justice
"Honesty."
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Justice is the archetype of honesty, which is essential for restoring balance and harmony. Lady Justice grasps her mighty Sword of Truth. Her goal is to restore order and equilibrium, symbolized by the golden scales she holds in her left hand. The Justice figure in the tarot is not blindfolded. She sees the situations confronting her clearly. The sword she wields represents that assertive action is needed to cut away the source of our imbalance. Imbalance often occurs when we aren’t being one-hundred percent honest with ourselves. Lady Justice restores balance and clarity through facts.
Does your life feel balanced right now? What do you need more or less of? Do you need to speak your truth to yourself or another, even if the thought of it makes you uncomfortable?
Justice personifies that little voice within us that is observing the truth of a given situation, no matter how inconvenient that truth might be. The figure of Justice is flanked by two gray pillars. The color gray is associated with neutrality.[1] Whenever Justice appears it is helpful to look at all the facts in an unbiased, neutral manner. To be neutral requires that you not let your emotions and expectations distort the facts. Wanting to believe something is true even when the facts prove otherwise will place you on a collision course with a rude awakening. If you look closely, Lady Justice has a square clasp at her neck and a square jewel in her crown. Squares are associated with honesty and strong foundations. We’ve all heard the expression “fair and square.” In astrology squares aren’t considered easy aspects, but they are considered responsible for the development of character and strength. The squares decorating Lady Justice symbolize that truth may not always be easy to confront initially. However, if you choose to proceed with integrity and honesty, you will find yourself on a stable pathway toward happiness, harmony and success.
Lady Justice reminds you to be clear with yourself and others about what you need to restore harmony. Be warned however, it may require you to add the word "N-N-N-N-N-N-No!" to your vocabulary. Justice advises you to approach the source of your imbalance dispassionately. The scales of justice symbolize the need to weigh all the facts before deciding how best to act.
If you've already been doing the work of facing your life honestly, Lady Justice arrives to declare, "Good for you! Isn’t the sensation of balance derived from honesty wonderful?" It takes courage to be honest with yourself. This is especially true if you are attached to a certain outcome. Other cards that appear around Justice can highlight which areas of your life require honesty at this time.
*Justice in a Love Reading
New Relationship
Justice can signify a new partner who is attracted to intelligence, beauty, and elegance. They are repelled by crudeness and have refined taste. Proper etiquette is required when courting this person. They are most attracted to intellectually curious people. Justice people also love to debate issues… just so long as the discussion doesn’t become too heated.
Long Term Partnership
Justice can symbolize a well-balanced, complimentary partnership. Each person strives to uphold the relationship’s integrity through honesty. Often, this card will appear when an important truth needs to be confronted with neutrality. Justice can also indicate legally binding, contractual matters that may make your lives together more “official.”
Seeking Romance
If you are single, Justice encourages you to seek a relationship partner in an intellectual environment, such as a university, class, or community organization. Broaden your horizons and open your mind to people who aren’t what you consider your “physical type.” You may discover a connection of common interest that leads to something far more substantive.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
[1] Alexandra Collins Dickerman, Following Your Path: Using Myths, Symbols and Images to Explore Your Inner Life (Los Angelos: Jeremy P. Tarcher Inc., 1992), 290.
December 14, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Ace of Cups
“Renewal.”
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The Ace of Cups represents love, renewal, and rebirth. This card reminds you that love surrounds you from all directions. North, South, East, West, ahead of you, behind you, within, without, in what you can perceive, and in mysteries too vast to comprehend. If you are looking for inner peace, then love is what you need to reconnect with. All religions talk about this love. Love is everywhere...and yet sometimes it's so tricky to perceive. All the poets, artists, and singers try to capture it. Love permeates everything, and yet sometimes we can't see the forest for the trees.
When is the last time you gave yourself over to feeling overwhelming love? Has your cup felt like it's running on empty? Were you taught that "true love" only exists after you find the right person, blinding you to love's true immensity?
A heavenly dove flies down from above, bringing a message of peace and hope. The dove has been associated with love and the realm of Spirit in countless traditions. To the ancient Greeks the dove was a symbol of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty. For the Christians it embodies God's messenger, the Holy Spirit. The dove represents the realm of the spiritual, and the supernatural. An angelic hand offers the large cup overflowing with divine love. It streams into a pond of lotus flowers, which are symbols for enlightenment. Love "en-lightens." This means it literally lightens our burdens, from within. The "W" on the cup could symbolize the cardinal direction West. The West is the realm of the element of water. It is also the direction the sun sets in. This reminds you that every sorrowful ending, is always followed by a joyful new beginning.
The dove carries the equal armed cross, a symbol of the four cardinal directions: North, South, East, and West. This reminds us that love is everywhere. It's in every culture, every country and every place that you can imagine. The cross also creates an "X." "Every child knows that X marks the spot" for hidden treasure. The treasure in this case is your center, your Spirit, and your unique essence. A divine cup of unconditional love is always being offered to you, even if you feel so overcome with troubles that it's hard to perceive.
All aces in the tarot symbolize new beginnings. In this case, the Ace of Cups is appearing to encourage you to renew your love for yourself and your experiences. If you find yourself unhappy with the current conditions you are experiencing, it could be because you forgot to let love be the answer. It's time to open yourself to love. You absolutely deserve it. Love, peace and joy is your natural state. It's in your core and at your center. You can return to this center, especially during sorrows and difficulties. Love is the voice within that gives you the reassurance that, "Everything will be fine, because you are forever, not this particular situation." Try addressing your current problems by releasing it to love. Transcend your tightness and resistance. Watch how easily tension resolves when you smile at your challenges and love yourself enough to know that you will prevail through transcendence. This release of tension occurs because you are no longer fighting against your true nature.
Turn to love as the solution, and watch miracles begin to happen.
*Ace of Cups in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Ace of Cups represents an auspicious start to any new partnership. A rebirth of romance is flowing through your life. Enjoy the present excitement, for the future is full of possibility. A word of caution, however. You are still experiencing the beginning. Keep your expectations in check as you enjoy this happy time. Be present with the burgeoning love that is developing.
Long Term Partnership
The Ace of Cups symbolizes a positive new beginning in an existing relationship. The bonds of affection shared between you both are being renewed. This is an ideal time to reaffirm your commitment to one another. This card can also signify a birth, rebirth, or exciting new chapter in your life together. The Ace of Cups signifies a partnership based in true love.
Seeking Romance
No matter what happened in the past, the Ace of Cups signifies that you are starting over. Your present rebirth is clearing away past unhappiness. Place yourself in new and supportive environments that activate your joy. Open yourself to new connections. Dare to be excited for all the happiness that still awaits you. Your true love will arrive at the right time. Trust it!
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
December 13, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Three of Pentacles
“The learning process.”
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The Three of Pentacles depicts a young man learning a trade at a monastery. This card symbolizes acquiring new skills, and refining them. The Three of Pentacles exemplifies work that is worthwhile and meaningful. In order to excel at it, you must be patient with the learning process. This means being open to making mistakes, and not giving up when setbacks happen.
What skills are you learning at this time? Are you expecting yourself to be perfect? Are you open to feedback about your progress? Do you constantly compare your skills to that of others and feel that your abilities aren't good enough?
Although the Three of Pentacles symbolizes "perfecting" a skill, it does not require us "to be perfect." Quite the opposite, this card asks you to look at the big picture. Look how far you've already come. Look ahead to what can can still achieve! This can only happen if you are open to learning. No matter how good you are, you can always get better.
The best teacher you can have is a mistake. Mastering anything is all about trial and error. You will make mistakes. The more mistakes you make, the better you will get. You might feel like you look stupid once in awhile, but don't give up. If you keep doing the work you will achieve your goal.
The learning process is never a straight "B-line" toward a goal. It is a winding path, of hills and valleys. Sometimes the path loops around and makes us feel as if we are going backwards and learning nothing at all. This is an illusion. Like a spiral, the path winds around and back, and yet always upward. Sometimes success isn't achieved right away. Its as if the Universe wants us to learn something important about where we are right now, without rushing on to the next thing. Where is your awareness right now? Are you impatient to get this phase in your life over with? Slow down! You are missing Spirit's messages.
Today, spend meaningful time honing your skills in the present.
*Three of Pentacles in a Love reading:
New Relationship
The Three of Pentacles symbolizes a connection between two people who are still engaged in a learning process. In the beginning of a relationship, this card will advise you to be patient and gather more data before completely diving in. This card can also highlight a relationship at school or an attraction to someone in a teaching profession.
Long Term Partnership
Your connection with your partner has taught you some of the most important lessons you are on this planet to learn. This card may also advise you to engage in mentally stimulating pursuits that interest you both. Support your partner’s long-term goals if they are considering an education or training process that will positively impact their career.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, this card can signify that you must invest in yourself at this time. This process will not last forever, so take heart. You may feel the desire to get lost in another, but you cannot skip over your own self-development. This card could also be telling you that romance is more likely to occur after completing your education or manifesting a major goal.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
December 12, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Nine of Swords
“Stand up to your inner-saboteur.”
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The Nine of Swords has been called the “worst card in the deck.”[1] Although the imagery isn’t as jolting as some of the other cards, it is called the “worst” because it represents the potential of mental shadows to attack you from within. Fear, shame, guilt, feeling utterly alone...these are all tools our inner-shadow uses to sabotage us. The brighter the light you shine, the greater the shadow you cast. Sensitive, kind, and creative people who bring light into the world must be especially strong when facing their shadows. Inner shadows are like nightmares, they are scary, but they don't really exist. You are stronger than your inner saboteur, but you must stand up to it when it tries to overtake your mind.
Have you ever encountered your inner-saboteur? Have people ever told you that you are a talented, amazing person…. and yet you can't believe it? Have you been letting your shadow sabotage you, and thwart what you think is possible for your future?
The man on the card just can't sleep. His mind has been overthrown by shadow thinking. He's in the dark, the realm of anxiety. His mind has been racing all night cycling from fear about the future, to guilt about his past, to self-loathing for not having control in the present. His inner-saboteur is holding him hostage, making him forget his light and how valuable he is.
Look closely at the paneling on the bed. He is submitting to his attacking inner-saboteur. But even now there is still hope. He just can't see it now because he is covering his eyes. Look at his quilt.
Blankets are shields. They can comfort us and remind us that we are actually safe. His blanket is covered with roses. The roses symbolize that he is still vital, and still has a wonderful life ahead of him, despite what the shadow tells him. His quilt is also covered with the signs of the zodiac, the star patterns of the Universe. This symbolizes that he can free himself from fear if he remembers to view himself in the context of Spirit. The man pictured here is actually a thread in a greater universal tapestry. He is a vital part of a bigger (Universal) plan. To escape the fear, he must view himself from a higher, universal perspective. This card reminds you that you do deserve to live and thrive, but you must know yourself and see the truth of your light that exists beyond your shadow.
Everyone is given a security blanket when they're born. It's also the first thing they pass out to aid in disaster relief. Hold onto the knowledge that you are not alone and are a vital part of a greater design. You wouldn't exist if there weren't something important that you were here to do. Life is school for the soul. You are not garbage and never will be.
The inner-saboteur is like anything, it wants to survive and continue to exist. The more you affirm it with self-loathing, guilt, shame and fear, the more it thrives. Turn off the spigot and transfer your attention to loving yourself and respecting how far you've come. Affirm your value to yourself and the shadow will lose all power.
Today stand up to shadow thinking. When your inner-saboteur says you can't do something, you do it anyway. When it says you should feel like crap, do something good for someone. If it seizes you in the shadows, light a candle and go to a mirror. Remind yourself that you are luminous, loving, and have a life’s purpose that doesn't include shooting yourself in the foot.
If you periodically struggle with shadows, it's just proof that your spirit radiates a unique and luminous light.
*Nine of Swords in a Love Reading:
New Relationship
The Nine of Swords can signify a relationship partner with an unresolved past. They may be experiencing the aftereffects of a major setback or disappointment. This person may not be ready to rush into a new phase. This card can also symbolize a new love interest who struggles with mental health issues.
Long Term Partnership
The Nine of Swords can represent unresolved grief or sadness in a relationship. However, the grief in question does not always stem from a relationship issue. Sometimes it originates from a major disappointment, such as failing to achieve a goal. This card encourages open communication instead of isolating from one another.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, you may not feel emotionally ready to move beyond a past relationship. Allow yourself to come to terms with your loss. Tears can be immensely cleansing. Feeling your authentic feelings will loosen their hold on your heart. Take your time. Resolving the past will set you up for future success.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
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[1] P. Scott Hollander, Tarot for Beginners (St. Paul: Llewellyn Publications, 1996), 191.
December 11, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Ten of Cups
“Gratitude.”
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The Ten of Cups represents gratitude for the magic that's weaving through your life, right at this very moment. You can't see this magic if you are on autopilot, mad, stressed, or anxious. You can only perceive it if you choose to stop feeding tension, step out of your routines, and open your eyes to the miracles at play. When you open yourself to this magic, great things begin to happen in your life. This shimmering magic is darting about everywhere, but you may have to adjust your perspective to see it.
Do "problems" seem to suck all the oxygen out of your day? Do you know you "have it good," but just can't seem to see it, feel it, or sense it? Is there stress, anger, or tension living in your heart?
The family on the card is like any other. They have problems to solve, work to do, kids to raise, and routines that govern their day. And yet, they are doing something that many of us don't do enough. They are soaking in the magic at play in their lives, in the present. The home that the family shares is in the distance, nestled in a thicket of trees on the hilltop. It is where they spend most of their time. In the house, love prevails... but there is also bickering, disagreements, and squabbles between the children that need to be broken up.
Being in the house, it is difficult for the family to actually see the house. So, the husband took his wife and kids out of their home, and up the road. The family stepped out of routines and held each other close. When the husband and wife looked back at their home, a magical thing happened. A colorful rainbow filled the sky, illuminating each of their blessings. They were alive. They had such a love for each other. This love made everything alright.
The couple raises their hands in gratitude for the abundance they have. The children are overcome as well, and dance merrily in the moment. The family now have a new perspective of the magic they don't always see. They were so close to this magic, that they were unable to see it.
Choose to see in the magic weaving through your life. To see this magic, you might need to step out of the house, and away from your routines. If you do get a glimpse of it, it might just fill your heart, and make your eyes a little misty.
When the Ten of Cups appears it’s time to open your heart to those you love most. Give them a hug and tell them how important they are. Acknowledge the love that is all around you and do something to increase it.
There is magic dancing through your life. It weaves into your spirit and connects you with everyone and everything around you. It's in the air, the water, the trees, the people you love, and in every particle of light.
Whisper a word of gratitude.... for today is completely magical!
*Ten of Cups in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Ten of Cups promises an auspicious beginning. It is likely that both partners have endured some difficulties in their past relationships which makes the sweetness of the present moment so enthralling. This card can also signify compatible long-term priorities. As with all idyllic cards in the tarot, keep your expectations in check as you get to know this person more… but enjoy!
Long Term Partnership
The Ten of Cups represents a happy couple. This is not to say that you both haven’t endured your share of stormy skies. However, the core of this relationship is loving, compatible, and strong. This card often appears during a great relationship rite of passage such as marriage, buying a home, or starting a family. The best of times await.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, the Ten of Cups advises you to keep the faith that you will meet that special someone. You may have endured your share of storms, but the rainbow of hope is delivering a promising message to you. The Universe is bringing the right person at the right time, and not before. So, relax and enjoy this moment! A watched pot never boils.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
December 9, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Five of Swords (Reversed)
“Pace yourself.”
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The Five of Swords warns not to take on more than you can handle. Its message is that of pacing yourself. Less gets accomplished (not more), when you are spread too thin. Procrastinating will not help you manifest your dreams, but neither will inundating yourself with the present task (which is the opposite extreme). The Five of Swords encourages you to get organized in your thinking and break the task down into smaller pieces that can be accomplished over time. This will aid you in replenishing self-esteem and personal power.
Is there a huge task looming in your mind that is giving you anxiety? Are you already so overwhelmed with current tasks and “to-do” lists that it’s hard to see how it will all get done? Do you feel spread too thin?
The Five of Swords depicts three squires, all trying to secure the job of assisting a brave knight. The two squires in the background are defeated. They are focused on the sea, the element of water, which is a symbol for their “feelings.” They couldn’t handle all five swords at once, and the knight’s horse, and the knight’s armor, and the knight’s demands, and, and, and........... Aggghh! It’s just too stressful! They quit!
A fresh breeze blows through the hair of the squire in the foreground. The brisk winds are dispersing the gray clouds in the sky above. This symbolizes the element of air, which in turn represents reason, logic, and intelligence. This squire finds that he can easily complete the tasks required by getting organized. Instead of seizing all the swords at once, he will collect only the amount he can carry. He can come back to the other two heavy swords lying on the ground once he gets the first task completed. In this way, he will do each task well.
The Five of Swords advises you not to waste another minute resisting your tasks with avoidance, exasperation, or procrastination. Get organized in your thinking! Pull out your calendar. Partition off one sacred hour a day, for seven days, to plug away at the task. Keep your commitment to yourself. Once it’s in the calendar it must be done! This is a sacred contract with your integrity and will systematically help you regain self-esteem. If something comes up in life (as sometimes happens), schedule a make-up hour to keep your commitment to yourself. Open yourself to the fresh breezes of action, to break up the grey clouds of indecision.
As you keep your commitment to yourself a strange thing will happen. You will look forward to working on your task, because confronting it will continue to make you feel powerful. You can achieve your dreams, but first you must schedule the time to work on them.
The Five of Swords also warns you not to take on too much of other people’s issues. You may have to let others do their own work, without your coming to the rescue. Maintain healthy boundaries.
When the Five of Swords appears reversed it carries a similar meaning to the upright position, but to an even greater degree. Often this card appears when there is a looming deadline or heavy expectation placed on the self to succeed. This card also appears when you have been pushing hard for something over and over, only to feel like you are hitting a wall. Events may feel overwhelming so you must pace the tasks in front of you, to avoid a burn out. Learn from the mistake of the discouraged squires in the background of the card. They tried to collect all the swords at once and were quickly overwhelmed by the weight. Instead, do a bit of the task now, leave it, and schedule consistent times to come back to finish the task gradually. Patience and consistency will help you win, don't get flustered or overwhelmed.
The Five of Swords reversed can also represent times where your energy feels scattered and unfocused. Perhaps you’ve been getting burnt out lately. What can you do to restore a sense of calm and clarity? What could you give yourself at this time to feel better?
The Five of Swords reversed asks you to take control of your stress level by taking control of your time. Be patient with yourself and stop cracking the whip over your own back. Break up larger tasks into smaller ones. Often, our best work emerges from taking breaks, taking our time, and returning to projects rested and clear-minded. If your thoughts are muddled, then there may be emotions that need to be heard right now.
The task before you will not prove to be as overwhelming as the other big trials you’ve faced in life. You’ve got this!
*Five of Swords (Reversed) in a Love Reading
New Relationship
It may be time to walk away from a relationship that is giving you more sorrow and stress than joy. Although it may be difficult, you will fare better is turn away from disempowering partnerships. This card can also signify that you need to be clearer about your relationship expectations from the beginning.
Long Term Partnership
You have been engaged in an argument, conflict or struggle and your energy has feels scattered and messy. You may need to walk away from the conflict to get clear about what it is you want. Difficult conversations are necessary in any relationship but cease to be productive if they repeatedly devolve. Know your non-negotiables and adhere to them.
Seeking Romance
There is an overwhelming conflict between your head and heart which needs to be resolved. Keep your word with yourself. If you say you are going to uphold a better standard, stick with it. If you are experiencing a moment of weakness, seek the support of the people you trust who want the best for you.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
December 8, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Queen of Cups
“Honor your feelings.”
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The Queen of Cups views feelings as sacred, because they reveal life to us in vibrant colors. She is nurturing, caring, and encourages her people to see the value of their own feelings and emotions. The Queen of Cups sees sensitivity as something that makes one strong, not weak. Feelings allow us to experience joy, excitement, love, bliss, and rapture. The Queen of Cups reminds us to be grateful for our feelings, even when they cause us pain. After all, feelings give life complexity, color and dimension.
Are you uncomfortable with your feelings? Are you afraid to be open because someone or something might potentially hurt you? Do you bottle up your feelings and deny they are even there?
Cups and water in the tarot symbolize feelings and emotions. The Queen of Cups places her feelings in the most precious chalice of the entire tarot. Her cup is gilded in gold and adorned with angels. Just looking at her cup’s beauty brings the Queen joy. This symbolizes that she honors feelings as something sacred. She sees their worth and value because they give life color and complexity. To prove this point, she is surrounded by colorful beach stones.
If you've ever collected stones on the beach as a child, you'll remember that when they are dry, they are kind of pretty, but rather dull. However, if you placed these stones in water, suddenly the stone becomes alive with vibrant colors and textures. The vibrancy of the stone is revealed through water. Likewise, a dull or boring life, can reveal its complexity if you open yourself to feeling it, instead of being detached from it.
So many people nowadays are afraid to feel. We are told "don't be so sensitive," as if feelings make us weak. We are told to "toughen up." This is especially true for boys, who above all else are not allowed to be sensitive or weak, although many girls are increasingly experiencing this too. The trouble with this, is that we all have feelings. Denying our feelings leads to imbalance internally and with the world around us. The more emotions that are bottled up, numbed, or not experienced, the more of "living" we miss out on. Many people avoid feeling because it might hurt. However, this is just stupid fear chattering away again. Fear robs us of experiences that could potentially bring us joy.
To experience the vibrancy of life, follow the Queen's example, and look for beauty. Beauty activates emotional responses that feel good. Science confirms that beauty releases pleasure giving dopamine’s from the brain into the bloodstream. Buy some flowers or beautiful art for your home or work environment. Admire the beauty in the natural world around you. It's everywhere! Look at what appears to be "dull beach stones" in your everyday life. View these things through the lens of your feelings. Open yourself to the rapture of experiencing love and beauty. Watch life's vibrancy reveal itself to you.
The Queen of Cups does not avoid her feelings. She takes them all: the good, the bad, the hurt, the sad, the love, the joy, the grief, the hope, and the happiness. She places them in her sacred chalice. She honors these feelings. They are what give life dimension, complexity, richness, color, and meaning.
*Queen of Cups in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The appearance of the Queen of Cups represents an exhilarating time, where every moment seems to create a meaningful new memory. Although the relationship is still in its beginning phase, your heart feels compelled to dive in. The Queen of Cups can also represent a partner who authentically cares and acts with empathy in relationships.
Long Term Partnership
The Queen of Cups can represent a union that has withstood the test of time. The journey was not always easy, but the love shared is legendary. You and your partner have a strong sense of loyalty to each other because of your shared history. The Queen of Cups can also appear when you need added compassion and empathy to address your partner’s needs.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, the Queen of Cups encourages you to be vulnerable, even if it feels scary. It is time to connect. Experience your life rather than hiding from it. Your sensitive heart is your greatest asset in your quest to find love. Allow it to remain open and curious.
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*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
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December 7, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Page of Swords
“Lowering unnecessary defenses.”
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The Page of Swords represents unnecessary defensiveness. These defenses guard a wounded area of the heart that needs healing. The Page of Swords guards himself from the feedback others give, which stunts his development. He often pretends that he is fine, and that it’s everyone else who has the issue. If the Page of Swords could lower his unneeded defenses, he would experience a huge breakthrough. His openness would get him past the blockages he keeps experiencing. He would then ascend to the next level.
Do you ever get defensive? (If you rush to say “No!” then this card is for you!) Is it difficult to hear honest critical feedback from others? Is fear of people seeing your vulnerabilities causing you to shut down, or detach?
The Page of Swords is often misunderstood and has been described as dishonest. However, this really isn’t a fair assessment. He is not a “liar,” because he has no awareness of his dishonesty. He is unable to assess himself accurately. His ego gets in the way. The Page of Swords is not a bad person. He is in denial about some difficult feelings. He also has more maturing to do.
Maturing?! He doesn’t agree! He is never wrong. He is always the best at what he does. He’s read the most books, won the most games, and has the most achievements. He is cleverer than the other Pages of the Tarot. He says, “They think I need to mature?!” “They’re crazy!” “Look at how stupid they are.” “I’m smarter than them anyway!”
Look closely at the Page of Swords’ position in the picture. He is guarding himself. The sword is raised to swing at any incomer. It is difficult to hug this Page. You just can’t seem to get close. He is in total defensive position. Even the biting winds of his words warn you to keep distant. The cold winds upset the birds above, and lash at the trees. All this defensiveness is a mask for hurt. A feeling of vulnerability that others will discover the Page of Swords doesn’t feel one hundred percent confident about what he is doing. If he could open himself to taking honest feedback, and admit he doesn’t know everything, he would experience a huge breakthrough.
The Page of Swords represents the part of us that resists having vulnerabilities seen. He shows up in ourselves when we lash out in defense of our pride. He also appears in the form of other individuals in our day to day interactions that have no self-awareness. When the Page of Swords comes in the form of another person, he will often trigger your own inner “Page of Swords” reaction. This is why he can be so irritating when he appears in the behaviors of people at work, or family members you are struggling with. Don’t get irritated or triggered when the Page of Swords appears. Thank him! For he is revealing the resistant part of you that needs to be more vulnerable and open in order to improve.
*Page of Swords in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Page of Swords can represent a love interest who is charming and funny, but who is also emotionally unavailable. He (or she) may be mercurial and send out mixed signals. No matter how successful or intelligent the Page of Swords appears, there is also an element of insecurity. The Page of Swords can also represent a partner who is guarded or aloof.
Long Term Partnership
The Page of Swords can signify a partner that is not taking responsibility for his (or her) own part to play in relationship challenges. There could be an opportunity for one or both partners to make a significant breakthrough if they can be vulnerable enough to admit when they’re wrong and what needs to change.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, the Page of Swords asks if you are sending mixed signals. Although you may “say” that you want to connect, your body language might come off as being too guarded. The Page of Swords can highlight struggles with being more vulnerable. Be mindful of the signals you are sending.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
December 6, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Four of Pentacles
“True security comes from within.”
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The Four of Pentacles represents material security and stability, which is very different from being secure in yourself. Although this a wonderful card financially speaking, it warns against being consumed by the pursuit of security solely through the acquisition of external things. The Four of Pentacles reminds you to balance both your expectations of worldly success, with the needs of your authentic self.
Do you feel safe and secure? Are you erecting barriers between yourself and others because you fear sharing your authenticity? Do you feel that no matter how much you achieve or acquire; it still doesn't feel like it's enough?
The miserly man depicted on the card had a difficult early life. He knows well what it is like to go hungry. He was the eldest child, in a poor family. Dealing with extreme poverty in his childhood created a lot of emotional turmoil, accompanied by feelings of being less than. One way for the man to medicate this sense of inequity was to make a lot of money. He decided to be the best at everything he did. He thought if he gained enough money and status, he would finally prove to the world he was worthy. The man moved to a big city, buzzing with opportunity and flashy personalities. He did everything to gain their acceptance, and soon became the wealthiest man among them. And yet, no matter how much money he earned, or how much approval he gained, he still felt empty, and insecure.
Here we see the miserly man clutching his four pentacles. They are the symbols for status, money, power, and achievement. These are not bad attributes to have so long as they are held by one that is already secure in himself. As tightly as the miser holds these attributes, they never seem to bring him an authentic sense of security. Look at his face. There is still suffering happening there. Internally he remains a scared neglected boy. Now, in turn he's neglected the needs of his inner-self. His four Pentacles have become barriers. The one on his head makes him forget his connection to Spirit. The one clutched to his heart blocks him from receiving love and feeling his feelings. The two Pentacles under his feet cut him off from being grounded in nature. His nature.
The pursuit of position and wealth are not inherently bad things. By all means… be a great financial success! The problem lies in "deadening" your humanity, to conform to the world around you, in order to finally feel good enough. Your humanity can be described as the part of you that feels love and compassion, for yourself and others. The depth within you is in constant dialogue with your spirit. Many people in our culture use their work, or worldly position as a way to seek validation. And yet pharmaceutical companies are getting rich because these same people are depressed and miserable, seeking an authentic feeling in all that is artificial. Seeking security in someone or something outside of yourself will always lead to a sense of insecurity.
Listen to the needs of your true nature. True security can only be found within.
On a purely financial level, the Four of Pentacles can symbolize good financial prospects and material security, with a caution to be conservative concerning money at this time. Save it.
*The Four of Pentacles in a Love Reading:
New Relationship
The Four of Pentacles can represent a person who places a lot of value in the external trappings of success or power. This card can also represent a needy, or clingy partner who is insecure. At its most innocent, the Four of Pentacles can represent a “tightwad,” or someone who begrudges paying for things. You can tell by their response to the first restaurant check!
Long Term Partnership
The Four of Pentacles encourages you and your partner to focus on goals for future security. Sometimes, this card places an emphasis on “pinching your pennies” or saving up for a major expenditure. Try not to take needless financial risks or splurge on extravagances. This card can also signify a possessive person who has trouble sharing their partner’s attention with others.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, you may be realizing that your desire to keep yourself “safe” is blocking you from making meaningful connections. The Four of Pantacles can also signify that you are focusing too much on career or the acquisition of wealth. Restore balance between work and play and make more time for socializing.
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