Hierophant (Reversed) and The Five of Cups…

As adults, many of us carry emotional wounds without fully understanding their origins. Often, these burdens stem from childhood experiences—times we were hurt, shamed, or silenced. Take a moment to revisit those memories, not to dwell, but to observe.

Think back to moments when you felt small or powerless. In many of those instances, there may have been an authority figure—parent, teacher, caregiver—who used their power in ways that didn’t serve your well-being. Acknowledging that you may have been manipulated, controlled, or simply not protected can bring clarity to the shame, confusion, or guilt that still lingers.

Now, picture your younger self in those moments—scared, unsure, and just trying to make sense of the world. Send them love. Say to them:
“You are not to blame. You are not broken. You are strong, capable, and deeply loved.”

Healing begins when we offer our younger selves the compassion they never received. Facing our present-day struggles becomes easier when we remind the child within us: You deserved better then—and you deserve peace now.

“Self-compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves that we would give to others.”— Christopher Germer

The Hierophant (Reversed) and The Five of Cups from The Slow Tarot by Lacey Bryant