Justice - Reversed…

Right? Wrong? Who knows anymore. Imbalance glides in this week to challenge us to a life re-assessment. It’s time to reconsider recent decisions that we made based on our personal value system. Sometimes, we are not right. What?!? Yes, I said it. In fact, when we are not right, we are wrong. It’s a hard pill to swallow, but we have made choices that will come back to haunt us this week. As we question our ideals and values, it is important not to fear this discord, but recognize, accept and admit that we were wrong. You will feel turned upside down, you will resist the frightening sight of your personal defeat, you will try to run and hide, but don’t. Don’t become an apparition of yourself by retreating from the truth of it all. Use the scary appearance of correctness to grow and learn and step into a more fully realized version of self - a self that is not afraid to confront past mistakes and claim responsibility. A self that is recalibrating toward a different and courageous truth.

“There is no wrong time to do the right thing.” - Charles M. Blow

Justice (Reversed) from the Ghost Tarot Deck by Davide Corsi

The Nine of Swords…

Good evening, my pretties. Seems something messy went down for you and you may find yourself reeling in the energy of it’s wake. But, why? When life splatters trauma and stress all over your path, you can let it terrorize your mind and habituate your dreams, or you can take a stand against this demon. It may be true that your situation feels like mayhem, you can let that mayhem invade your mind and wreak bloody havoc, or you can expel your dark and chaotic thoughts and free up your mind for better things. None of us have time for sleepless nights. And your dreams should be a a beautiful escape, not a place for you to circle in agonizing disturbances. Anxiety is a monster, it’s true. But, you can exorcise this fiend or welcome it. I think, no matter what the cause it, it’s best not to hold space for it in your mind or spirit. It is a definite challenge, but it begins with a mere choice. Sweet dreams, my pretties!

“Often we wish to be exorcised of demons we ourselves have allowed house room.” - Sheri S. Tepper

The Nine of Swords from The 78 Tarot Astral - Tarot in Space - Card by Jessica Perner

The Page of Swords…

This weekend, unravel in a darkly beautiful way. Peel away the outer layers of preconceived ideas and understanding. Imagine that every moment you encounter is a new chance to learn, absorb and grow. If every experience is unknown to you, how might your gorgeously blank spirit approach each one? If you didn’t have to know or even care to know, then maybe that knowledge would materialize for you like a mesmerizing fog. Allow yourself to be completely unencumbered and float through the weekend’s encounters with gloaming curiosity. Let the mystery of life entrance you and choose to become a mystery to all you encounter. No judgements, no notions and no concern for should and shouldn’t - Just beguiling openness of mind and soul. Perhaps, ignorance can be bliss?

“Curiosity is lying in wait for every secret.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

The Knave Of Stakes (Page of Swords) from The Vampire Tarot by Robert Place

The Magician - Reversed…

Lost your spark? Take a close look at the people around you who seem to be running the show, because you are being manipulated. That dip in energy - that second guessing of self is not of your own making this time. There is one person that holds great power over you and those around you, but is not actually who or what they claim to be. Their actions may seem innocent to you on the surface, but they have their own electrifying agenda and you are the experiment they have set their sights on. Don’t let them drain you of your potential. Don’t let them zap the life out of you with their selfish actions. Rise up. You can overpower them and, quite frankly, terrify them, because your personal promise is what they seek to claim. If you haven’t figured out who this is yet, flip the switch that will shed a shocking amount of light on the monster they truly are. Exposing them may just be enough to send them running in fear.

“Beware for I am fearless, and therefore powerful.” - Mary Shelley, Frankenstein

The Magician - Art from the Gothic Halloween Tarot

The King of Cups…

Your feelings matter and can be the key to a greater vision for the future of many. What?!? No, truly. Powerful leadership doesn’t mean taking control and just telling everyone what to do. It’s more than just setting guidelines and making rules. Feel your way to what is truly necessary to expand in all directions. Listen and really connect with those who are working for you and around you to understand their feelings and needs. Be sensitive to the emotional energy that emerges within yourself and others as you strategize a more focused vision. This can inform a more holistic way of moving forward. Your impact can flow in ways you hadn’t even thought, if you decide to lead with compassion and kind heartedness. You don’t have to make a splash - let your ideas ripple and absorb what it’s like to be truly loved and respected in your leadership role.

“Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far-reaching effects.” - Dalai Lama

The King of Cups from The Mystic Mondays Tarot by Grace Duong

The Page of Pentacles - The High Priestess (Reversed)…

It’s two card Tuesday and on this Tuesday, we are haunted with the idea that we would like to be so much more than we are in this very moment. But, sometimes, we just aren’t all knowing and we need to reconnect to an uncluttered and uncomplicated version of self. What do you have in this moment that is the most basic reflection of you personal magic? If you were to center your attention on this tiny, but precious spark, what might you learn about your potential for advancement that you have been missing? How can you strip away all the bigger ideas of what and who you should be to harness a more sincere and focused connection to that light within? If you take the time to connect to the innocence and joy of who you are in this very moment, ideas on how to deepen your light will come to you, The expectations placed upon you by self and others is a distraction. Focus your thoughts and feelings on the beautiful simplicity of self magic and trust that light within.

“When you start focusing on yourself, magic also starts focusing on you.” - Sania Abbas

The Page of Pentacles and the High Priestess (Reversed) from the Haunted House Tarot by Sasha Graham

Ten of Pentacles…

Happy to be back on dry land and connecting my feet to the ground once more! And even more excited to bring you this message from the Ten of Pentacles today…It’s time to ground yourself and grow roots that will bring you the sparkling abundance and fulfillment you seek. Sometimes we get clouded in the idea that we cannot have what we want and need. Or even worse, that we are somehow undeserving. What?!? I say nope. Today, connect with the spirits in the natural world that want you to succeed - that fill your every step with beauty and support. If you listen close enough they are whispering to you to ground yourself and just believe. Take a minute today to stand in the grass and imagine that you are a a giant tree that has deep roots which are nourished by the light in center of the planet. You’ve grown so much over the years and continue to stretch, you are wise, strong and have learned to bend with the wind to stabilize your spirit. What more is out there for you? Sun, sky, community? Keep reaching - the hidden spirits in nature will continue to guide you toward fulfillment. Now, this week, go out and GROW!

“There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it.” - Minnie Aumonier

The Ten of Pentacles from the Ghosts and Spirits Tarot Deck by Lisa Hunt

A weekend full of cards…

I’m setting out on a sail! And, because my wi-fi may be dicey, I’m setting you up with a spread through Sunday!

Kinda fun to look at it like this….Seems like this weekend we are longing to free ourselves from a kind of web we are caught in…

All cards from my Tarot of Mystical Moments Deck by Catrin Welz-Stein

Thursday is our day to TAKE, not give. You need to be selfish to declare your own personal freedom. Set your personal rescue plan into action by taking what you most need and not caring about giving in return. You deserve it.

Friday - You don’t need help on this mission to establish balance. Other people may have good intentions, but they will only get in your way. Do it alone and know that you have everything you need.

Saturday is for strategizing. Re-align the players in your game of chess. Some people may need to be told where they stand in your world and others should be moved where you want them to be. You are in control, so take the lead. All is fair in love and war, my friends.

Sunday you will feel the sweet release and the darkness you have been shrouded in will fall away! Enjoy cleaning yourself of the cobwebs that were ensnaring you. Rejoice with devilish glee! You will be able to start your week on Monday with a more powerful, but open existence!

“Freedom, in any case, is only possible by struggling for it.” - Albert Einstein

The King of Cups - Reversed…

There is a lot of emotional energy churning underneath the surface with you right now, but I think it’s best right now to keep it to yourself. Go ahead and brood - let this phase of deep feelings be what it wants to be. However, you don’t have a handle on it just yet and you know it. If you lead from the heart in this moment, it could be risky. You don’t want to put your personal or professional relationships in jeopardy because you are a moody mess. I guess that was a little harsh, but we’re all allowed to be emotional. I don’t think you should diminish your feelings. In fact, I think you should swim in the deep ocean of them - let them overtake you. But, do not lead with them and definitely do not project them on others. Why would you want to share this delicious blue anyway? Own it, but refrain from letting it contaminate your interpersonal exchanges. I think it’s safe to say, you are going through something. Take the time you need, but be careful not to drag those you love into the dark waters with you.

“Don’t let your mood dictate your manners.” - Anonymous

The King of Cups (Reversed) from The Tarot of Mystical Moments by Catrin Welz-Stein

The Nine of Pentacles…

I think because it’s October AND it’s super grey, foggy and rainy here on the East Coast, I am feeling very Gothic today. Deliciously Gothic. What better way to read the card than from the Gothic Vampire Deck. On this mystical and entrancing Tuesday, you deserve to begin your own dark fairytale. When we think of Vampire Folklore, the tastiest moments of the stories are when the protagonist finally succumbs to the spell being cast upon them and gives in to complete transformation. What ecstasy calls to you in the silvery moonlight? What have you been repeling that might bring you everlasting abundance? How might you give in just a little to the idea of bliss, because if you do, it will grow and multiply over time. So, don’t resist today - let your mind, heart and spirit give in to get more. It may hurt a little, but you will be rewarded.

“I can awaken things inside of you that have been sleeping all your life.” - Damon Salvatore from Vampire Diaries

The Nine of Skulls (Pentacles) from the Tarot of Vampyres by Ian Daniels

The Page of Cups…

Some people might say the Page of Cups is emotionally immature, but others might see the page as emotionally explorative. Remember when you were a kid on your first trip to the beach? How every single detail of your experience held fascinating wonder? The expansiveness of the location made you feel like you were flying. The smell of the ocean wakened your tiny mind and the spray of the sea made you feel tingly all over your arms and legs. The roar of the waves might have frightened you a tiny bit, but the sand was filled with endless opportunity for play. And, when you discovered that tiny little seashell, it was like digging up a hidden precious jewel! What if, you approached all of your relationships in this way? Think of the excitement of acquiring this brand of “emotional immaturity”. Friends, family, lovers can be rediscovered and the secret treasure they have to offer can be revealed to you. Might be worth a try - who knows - it could be thrilling to get lost in the ocean of another person you thought you knew…

“If we are to use our minds rightly, we must live in an attitude of constant openness and learning.” - Dallas Willard

The Page of Cups from the Soul’s On Fire Tarot

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