The Three of Swords…

This week will present challenges. But, the demons we face are ones that we choose to create. Our own dark thoughts can infect us like a frightening virus (too soon?). The mind is funny that way - it spins fantastical stories about self and others - stories that crown our heads with fear and clutter our minds with confusion. Sometimes this internal chaos can infiltrate our inner psyche and take up residence in the most sensitive corners of our hearts. At this point, it’s best that we sift through it all to understand that which is simply not true and remove it from our bodies. In short, don’t let your worries overtake you. The unknowing is the scary part. Take the very courageous steps needed to get to the truth. And, that which is untrue - cleanse from your bloodstream, so you can properly heal. There is strength in reclaiming your mental and emotional health.

“Stare at the dark too long and you will eventually see what isn’t there.” - Anonymous

The Three of Swords from The Super Punch Tarot - Art by Brigid Ashwood

The World…

October 1st greets us at the door and slyly invites us to cross over the threshold and step into fall with ghoulish glee. October is a magical month - the air crisps, the nights creep in earlier to haunt us with darkness and, whether or not you believe it to be true, the veil thins closening us to the world beyond. If one believes in this, they can feel it in the air all around them and use it to their advantage. If one doesn’t believe in this, the dark nights allow for deeper rumination, which may be allowing them to receive messages without knowing that they are. Either way, you, I, them - we ALL hold the key to crafting a delicious and purposeful October for ourselves and others. Are you going to accept the invitation that is being offered and step into the unknown world of this season? Invitaion is yours. You decide! I have already dressed the house and pulled out my favorite October deck - The Haunted House Tarot (featured here). If you want to celebrate with your cards this month - enroll in the Halloween Tarot Experience (led by yours truly) on Uncommongoods.com. Also - fancy a reading? A Halloween Tarot Greeting for a friend? I’m here at your service - just give me a shout. tarotwithholly@gmail.com. Celebrate in style and make this month frightfully wonderful!

“The veil is thin, the time grows near. Your ancestors voices come through clear - it may not be what you want to hear. But, listen close and take their lead - it may be what you need.” - Susan Reynolds

The World from The Haunted House Tarot by Sasha Graham

The King of Swords…

This weekend take control by strategizing. Utilize those ideas in you mind to envision a long term plan for your future. Soar into your own power by creating the time to cut through the chaos and think ahead. You know what it is you want and how to execute it, but it’s time to map it out for yourself with grand and colorful detail. The more specific you are in your perception of what will be, the more likely you are to execute that dream with focus and strength. Inhabit your spirit by making the space and time in which to pinpoint exactly how to manifest all that you desire. Strategize with clarity of target and let the wind lead you to it.

“Tactics without strategy is the noise before the defeat.” -Sun Tzu

The King of Swords by Yoshi Yoshitani

The World…

Moon. Sun. Planet Earth. A circle has no end and no beginning. We often get stuck in the linear and forget about just how circular life can be. In fact, the eyes you see the world around you with are a series of perfect circles! If you were to truly use those optic orbs view the world through a lens of everlasting connectedness, how does the landscape of your personal expectations change? Tonight, think of all of the moments in your life that you might describe as “full circle moments”. They were magical because you appreciated all of the elements that surrounded you in that instant - the past, present and future perfectly aligning in an undefined perfect positioning. The end felt like the beginning and the beginning reflected the end and there you were directly in the middle of it, dancing with joy! When you truly think about it, though, All moments prior directed you to that place in time and that place in time was propelling you, still, into the future. So you see, it’s a great night to open yourself up to the incredible realization that you are exactly where you are supposed to be and the universe is encircling you with support, protection, wisdom and love at every single turn.

“In the particular is contained the universal.” - James Joyce

The World from the Kazanlar Tarot by Emil Kanzalar

The Knight of Wands…

Even in the darkest of moments, you have an inner glow that encircles your heart and shines a light on your way forward. When the world twists and turns without warning and you find yourself lastly wandering through shady territory connect with that refulgent energy that you harbor within. Sometimes outside influences can become a barrier between you and your own spark, so it’s important to know exactly when to rebel against outside threats. Yes, breaking the rules is called for. I think you feel that this might be your moment to rise up and direct yourself anew. Let that incandescent glow absorb the reality of your situation. It will whisper to you the secret of personal advancement. Then charge ahead with the spirit of a young warrior and leave the darkness behind you.

“No degree of worldly darkness can extinguish the glow of a soul’s inner light.” -Wes Fesler

The Knight of Wands from the Haunted House Tarot by Sasha Graham

Four of Wands (Reversed) - Devil (Reversed)…

Is it possible you have become entrenched in a “good” time with some “good” people who are not so good? They seem to have ensnared you with their charismatic charm and empty promises of what is to come. Release yourself from the obligation of being at the center of what they are offering. I know it’s nice to feel like you are a part of something, but you should NOT be made to feel like you will be ostracized or miss out if you can’t or won’t. FOMO can be overwhelming, but FOMO when you are in a toxic environment is downright hurtful and abusive. So, no matter how they draw you in, remind yourself it’s alright to say “Nope - not this time.” without regret or shame. In fact, today is a great day for you to rethink your boundaries in this situation and free yourself from their control before it spirals into craziness. Don’t let yourself be manipulated or controlled. Repeat after me “Nope - not this time.” “No thank you.” “That sounds like fun, but I have other commitments.” and finally, “NO”.

“The only people who get upset about you setting boundaries are the ones who benefitted from you having none.” - Unknown

The 4 0f Wands (Reversed) into The Devil (Reversed) from The Light Seer’s Tarot by Chris-Anne

The Nine of Pentacles…

On this magical Monday, you may have to invite the magic in! Truly, when it comes to manifesting the fairytale version of your life, it’s not enough to wish, dream and hope like they do in all the storybooks and Disney movies. You must be open to using what you already have at your disposal to encourage the advancement you truly long for. It’s not a lie that magic is everywhere. So, take a look around and see what wonders are already available to you! Let those sparkling gems enhance the dream at the core of your being. Encourage the magic to multiply and dance through your world with awe. Inspire yourself by welcoming the enchantments that exist just for you. I promise, by the end of this Monday, you will feel like you are living in a secret garden full of abundance! Hello, magic - come on in!

“Both abundance and lack exist simultaneously in our lives, as parallel realities. It is always our conscious choice which secret garden we will tend.” - Sarah Ban Breathnach

The 9 of Pentacles from The Tarot of Younger Self by Sushila Burgess

The Emperor…

Hoping to make a big, colorful splash this week? Step up and take control of the circus! You may not see it now, but you hold the power within to be in charge of even the wildest of situations. Structure will be incredibly important for your success this week. In fact, having a clear and steadfast perimeter in which to work, will allow you to really take creative liberties within those guidelines. So, begin by setting some strong protocols for others to follow. Your ground rules will actually establish a sense of ease for those around you, ensuring that they are even more productive. So, get organized, plan ahead and be ready to delegate with absolute authority. Stay committed to keeping everyone (even self) on target. Move the show along with fearless commanding and innovative leadership. Dominate the week ahead and you will be rewarded with admiration, appreciation and undying respect.

“Honey - If crazy had a ringmaster, I’d be holding the whip.” - E.A. Gottschalk

The Emperor from The 78 Tarot Carnival - Cirque Du Tarot

The Death Card (A message from the Thunder Storm)…

I woke up this morning in the middle of a very conversational thunder storm and knew I had to pull a card right away. When Mother Nature has a lot to say, it’s best to engage her with a magnetically charged question. So, I asked “How can we use the energy of this rain to our advantage? What is this storm meant to wash away?!” I had my BF pull from my most dark deck and, since he is always fearful of pulling the Death Card, he said “I bet it’s the Death Card”. And, it was. AHHHH! So, he’s all freaked out, but I am not surprised, because when you have a strong connection with your cards, these “coincidental” messages are naturally occurring and have nothing to do with “coincidence”. ANYWAY, a magical start to the day and the messaging is strong and clear. The rainy day is calling to us to face our most paralyzing fears. If you are strangely resistant to something or someone one - it’s time to let that fear drain away by confronting it. Even just acknowledging it and making a plan to move through it is an electrifying option. Go deep - go dark and use the lightning in your mind and spirit to illuminate the terror that must be addressed. Then, scare the living daylights out of that fear by walking through it with openness and excitement. Have an enthralling day!

“It’s not the roaring thunder that smites, but the silent lightening.” - Ivan Panin

The Death Card from The Dark Wood Tarot by the Magical Sasha Graham

The Five of Cups - Reversed…

You have been feeling a little low on energy - depleted of your spark. Well, today is an excellent time to RECHARGE! Do you remember your favorite video game when you are on a magical quest but almost ran out of lives? And then you find that golden chalice or sparkly coin that allows you to regenerate instantaneously and keep moving toward your goal? You are not at the end of this particular quest - you are right in the middle, so it’s time to find that prize. What is the secret juice or special sauce that will help you to recover and revive your spirit? Your inner battery is ready for a little magic, so discover that thing that will fill you with motivation, inspiration and LIFE. Reach for it - jump hurdles if you have to (Mario did and that strange man in Pitfall was swinging over caverns!). Let yourself feel the power of rejuvenation. Revive, restore and renew your spark! (Cue the Ms. Pacman music)

“You’re only given a little spark of madness. You mustn’t lose it.” - Robin Williams

The Five of Cups (Reversed) from the Fairytale Tarot Deck by Yoshi Yoshitani

Knight of Wands - Reversed…

You have a feeling building up under the surface - a kind of mysteriously undefined, fiery passion. This creative restlessness is exciting, but also frustrating. What to do with it?!? In what direction should you let it lead you?!? You don’t have to know right away. Live in the strange yearning of it - let it burn deep inside until you cannot take the heat any longer. This inner spark of passion will grow in a way that ignites a journey which will surprise and amaze you. Sit in the uncomfortable pyre for now feeling directionless - fan the flames and wait for the right moment. Impulsively you will know when to charge ahead and just what path to take.

“I love the unknown. I love the discovery of what will be happening and just kind of sitting back and not knowing.” - Jennifer Aniston

The Knight of Wands from The Labyrinth Tarot by Luis Royo

Nine of Cups - Reversed…

Here’s a tricky question for you - take a moment to review the day - how much of your day’s activities and experiences really filled you heart and fueled your passions?!? On the outside, life is quite cute…but cute is not exactly compelling, is it?!? Your creature comforts are useful, but only to a point. The surface encounter of fulfillment doesn’t really move you anymore. You can let it all spill away and throw a pity party that will look to others as a basic call for sympathy and attention… or you can take the time this week to make some needed changes that will lead you toward realization of wholeness.Tonight - let the sappy, colorful ideas that you present to the world about self satisfaction melt away like crayons in the sun. You don’t need those fake colors anymore. Empty your mind and heart of who you want to be perceived as being. Ask the night sky to fill you with space and expansiveness. Ready yourself to dream a deeper, more enriching version of who you can be. Close your eyes and drift into this mysterious vision. When you wake, write down your first thoughts about what would fulfill you. Let this missive explain to you who you really are. Now, spend the rest of a the week, mapping out a plan to obtain it. Sweet dreams and let this challenge be an inspirational start to your week!

“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” - Carl Jung

The 9 of Cups (Reversed) - Art by Vera for the Art Collaboration on Behance

Judgement…

When re-arranging our priorities and looking for a new and greater sense of self to emerge, it can be quite inspirational to turn to the natural world for guidance. There’s undeniable messaging that emanates from the trees in our path, the sky overhead, the animals that surround us and the very air we breathe. You might say their secret guidance is hidden in plain sight. Today, make yourself aware of how you inhabit the ecosystem around you. Listen, feel and absorb the mysterious song of the universe and try to sing a chorus or two. What you imagine for self might need a little connection with this ephemeral tune - the distant call of the birds, the deliciously exciting electric boom of a thunderstorm, the roaring of the ocean waves. Let’s face it - natures sheds and regenerates much like we do, so when it seems like change is insurmountable or you are feeling a little stuck, let the sound of the falling leaves or the rippling current be a reminder that change is your birthright and you are free to call upon it whenever you choose. Feel your destiny as a magical thing that exists in this moment all around you, rather than an unreachable destination. Let the natural world be your pulse.

“Look deep into nature and then you will understand everything better.” - Albert Einstein

The Judgement Card - Tarot Art Print by Linda Ravenscroft

The Wheel of Fate - Reversed…

What goes around comes around. This weekend you may be feeling a little bit of the heat as you find yourself dangling on the downside of the wheel of life. It’s ok to lay low and just absorb what you are receiving with careful consideration. It’s not fun to experience life’s lows, but it’s imperative that you find the message and meaning that is hiding underneath it all. Knowing how to claim responsibility for where you find yourself will allow you to work toward a twist and turn in the right direction as you move forward. But for now, cling to the underpinnings of your situation and recognize that, while you don’t always have control over the ups and downs of existence, you have been and continue to be a contributing influence to the fortune of self and others as you spin.

“Realize that everything connects to everything else.” - Leonardo DaVinci

The Wheel of Fate/Fortune - Artists Rendering on Deviant Art

The Two of Swords…

Listen, I know you feel caught between - stuck in a moment of indecision. BUT you know you know the answer. Deep within, the direction is clear. It’s just a matter of unearthing the clarity that is buried underneath. If you can, find a moment today to hover - suspend yourself above that which surrounds you. Don’t let external distractions confuse or disorient you. Close your eyes and dig deep in the soil of self. Keep digging until you find that treasured answer. It’s there - I promise.

“At the center of your being you know the answer. You know who you are and you know what you want.” - Lao Tzu

The Two Of Swords - Artist rendering by Thalia Took

The Seven of Pentacles…

So, if you are east coast based like me, have just experienced a stunning harvest moon appear as a silent but powerful “goodbye” to summer. Now, you are starting to feel the air turn crisper and the wind whispers to you for change.. The energy of fall is calling to you and potential for something different is on the horizon. But this potential isn’t just of the external variety. There is a piece of you that has been haunted by the idea of of real growth and germination. Perhaps your tired soul is recognizing that you need more space in your world? Or maybe your inner child feels corrupted and neglected. At night, your dreams may be filled with nonsensical and dizzying visions - a kind of messaging you are having trouble deciphering. What looms over you is your own psyche motivating you towards more - more of what?!? You get to decide, my haunted friends. But the time is now to prepare a space for it and allow it to possess you.

“It is a good idea to be alone in a garden at dawn or dark, so that all it’s shy presences may haunt you and possess you in a reverie of suspended thought.” - James Douglas

The Seven of Pentacles from the Dark Wood Tarot by Sasha Graham

Queen of Wands (Reversed) - The Magician…

This feels like a Two-Card-Tuesday-Dose-of-Reality “Smack Down”! You can’t always be in charge and sometimes your creative ideas are dismissed leaving you powerless. But, are you truly powerless? Or do you just need a reminder of the fundamentals. Sometimes to truly make magic, you need to simplify down to the root and use the basic tools at your disposal. Your ego may feel the need to take over and control the moment or task at hand and you might long for recognition, admiration and respect. But, do you need those things, truly, to get the job done. Even if you have felt that level of “Smack Down” today, trust that your ego can mend and rely on what you have at your disposal - your raw talent. It doesn’t have to be revered to be effective. You have all the elements to be successful - don’t let a little setback get you down. Stay connected and you will flourish - that is real sorcery.

“Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom.” - George S. Patton

The Queen of Wands (Reversed) into the Magician from the Rider/Waite/Smith Deck

The Queen of Pentacles…

There’s a beautiful future that is calling to you - it’s asking you to step up and take the lead on your own behalf. In fact, future you is feeling glamorous and in charge, but is looking back to where you currently are and beckoning you to begin the work. Yes, it takes work to achieve the kind of freedom that allows for indulgence and abundance, but that doesn’t mean it’s not within reach. Start now by planting the seeds of that delicious fruit and then use your savvy to encourage it to bloom and ripen. This will take planning. This will take courage, patience, dedication and the continual belief that your desire can and will blossom. Your succeeding future self is relying on you to start the process now, but don’t just make plain steps, ignite your plan with majesty and true conviction. Whenever you feel like you might like to abandon this endeavor, let your future self remind you of just how much you deserve the riches that await you. Think of this first step as the moment you begin to ascend the throne that was always there waiting for you.

“I believe that, young or old, we have as much to look forward to with confidence and hope as we have to look back on with pride.” - Queen Elizabeth II

The Queen of Pentacles - Art found on Deviant Art

The Two of Wands…

If you are anything like me, you might be grappling with the emotions that arise when you feel the “end of summer blues”. It’s like a grayness that invades your every move and the terrible feeling that you just want to avoid any sense of saying goodbye. Well, an encouraging message has materialized in the form of the Two of Wands! So, we’re at a crossroads of sorts, but it’s up to us how we choose to grab onto the options that have presented. The sun is dimming, the world keeps spinning, but to have decisions to make is a gift. Which emerging path this fall is tickling your fancy and how might you use it to create even more magic in your life? Take hold of what is being offered, but dream beyond it, as the grasping of it is only the first tiny step in a journey that is great! Let the orange hues of warmth dissipate and invite the purple inspiration of the new, crisp air. Creativity and motivation are at your fingertips. You decide which way to go as you enter this darkly delicious season. You get to choose who you want to become within underneath it’s indigo sky. Let yourself be inspired.

“May your choices reflect your hopes and not your fears.” - Nelson Mandela

The Two of Wands from the Inspirational Tarot Deck

The Seven Of Swords…

I hate to break it to you, but whatever you are up to - they are onto you. You may think you are pulling the wool over someone’s eyes, but those eyes are seeing what you are doing. Yep -you are caught and if you aren’t you will be soon. They may not immediately grasp the full truth of your actions, but truth has a way of rising to the surface or slowly sinking in with an extra burn. So, it’s just a matter of time before you are discovered in this act and there’s only so much you can play that innocent, unknowing card that you have relied upon in the past. Look within and examine your reasons for this deception. Maybe if you confront the heart of it, you’ll find a more forthright and transparent way to handle the situation - one that clears a path for all to move forward with a clear conscience. To be sneaky is sometime necessary, but in this occasion- what are you truly avoiding? Will the consequences of your betrayal really be worth it? I know you don’t want to hear it, but honest is the best policy in your case.

“Being honest may not get you a lot of friends, but it will always get you the right ones.” - John Lennon

The 7 of Swords from the Mystical Manga Tarot by Barbara Moore