Elliot Adam's Blog

“Authority, discipline, and command.”The Emperor (Upright) | Tarot CardThe Emperor is the archetype for assertiveness and initiating a firm foundation for success.

He teaches you that feeling secure can only exist when you establish strong boundaries. If you don’t stand up for yourself, you are metaphorically wearing a sign that tells others that they can take control of your life and its direction. To the Emperor, this is the same as ceding his crown to a lesser king. The Emperor’s personal honor code forbids victimization. The Emperor is the personification of the voice within you that urges you to speak up assertively when something feels unjust. If you continually feel resentful that others aren’t treating you with respect, it’s probably because you haven’t been letting your “inner-Emperor” speak up.

Do you feel respected by others, and that your personal boundaries are honored?

Do you have trouble saying “no,” without an apologetic excuse or a fib? Do you want to “be nice” and think assertive people are somehow mean, selfish and don’t care about others?

The Emperor is seated on his throne which is decorated with rams. Rams charge forward, assertively defending their territory and mates. The Emperor wears armor under his robes. This symbolizes that he ready for action at any time. He is not afraid to stand up and protect his realm. His beard symbolizes his wisdom, gained from experience. The Emperor is never aggressive, just to prove his masculinity. He acts only when his realm needs to be stabilized and protected. The mountains surrounding him are protective barriers. They are also his seat of power. From their peaks, he can survey all his realm, and swiftly act to protect his personal boundaries. The Emperor wields the scepter, and the orb. The scepter it a symbol for masculine energy, the orb is a symbol for the feminine. The Emperor holds both in balance and understands that each are equally indispensable. The Emperor is relaxed and at peace with his masculinity and femininity. If you look closely there is even a stream emerging from his mountains in the distance. The Emperor does have contact with the sensitive element of Water. This spring will flow down his mountain and feed the Empress’ waterfall far below.

Our society is obsessed with gender roles. It brainwashes children into believe that life is a series of “boys are this,” and “girls are that.” Boys should act more aggressive and assertive, girls should be “nicer” and more accommodating. The truth is, we all have both the Empress, and the Emperor archetypes within us, regardless of what gender we are. Both archetypes must be respected for inner and external balance to occur. Too much “Emperor” can make you overly aggressive, combative, and belligerent. Too much “Empress” can make you passive, a doormat, and a victim.

Today, the Emperor is calling on you to be assertive.

You don’t need to justify your right to be, but you do need to stand up for it. Respectfully asserting your position is very empowering if you’ve been overly passive. This card also portends the need to create structure, to aid in the achievement of a goal. Take responsibility for yourself and your dreams. Stand up and protect your realm. Stop meekly saying “yes” when your inner Emperor is bellowing “NO!”

If you honor your inner Emperor, you will feel secure in yourself and your place in the world.

“Rising from adversity.”Ten of Swords (Reversed) | Tarot CardIf the Ten of Swords appears reversed, the sunlight now appears at the top of the card.

The clouds are parting, and light is returning once again. This card reminds you that the light will always return, no matter how many dark days you’ve experienced. There is a quality of resignation to this card. When it appears, life will no longer feel like a breathless sprint to avoid difficult inevitabilities. The storm has happened, and now it is time to assess where to go from here. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and stand tall once again. The Ten of Swords reversed symbolizes that you have accepted reality, instead of rationalizing it away.

What fears are you constantly trying to keep ahead of?

Is your day filled with thoughts of terrible things that might happen? Do you try to just “keep busy” so you don’t have to face the source of your unease?

Challenges in life do not present themselves to destroy you, but rather to motivate you to grow beyond your current limitations. Look on challenges from a different perspective, with the wise eyes of Spirit. You will always see the way out of the maze when viewing it from high above.

When the Ten of Swords reversed appears, you’re learning that the source of your anxiety is merely a puzzle to solve.

Stop avoiding your growth by keeping busy. The Ten of Swords (upright or reversed) asks you to accept truth, so that you can finally be released from feeling metaphorically chased. The light on this card symbolizes that sunlight is the best disinfectant. Raise your shadows into the light and they will no longer haunt you.

Ten of Swords (Reversed) in a Love ReadingNew Relationship

The person you are asking about has been through a lot. Although there are signs of improvement, they are not out of the woods yet. Your intuition may warn you if they are promising to deliver more than they can truly give. You must be honest with yourself about their current limitations.

Long Term Partnership

There is a far deeper rite of passage happening for you and your partner, even though past experiences brought much pain. It wasn’t all for nothing. Sunlight is starting to peek through the dark clouds. The Ten of Swords reversed can also signify healing after a devastating loss.

Seeking Romance

The sunlight is finally returning after what seemed an eternity of dark days. You have broken a destructive cycle and are putting yourself first again. Retain the lessons the past has taught you. Be brave and open your heart to new beginnings.

“The future is wide open and waiting.”Three of Wands | Tarot CardThe Three of Wands reveals that your life is like a large blank canvas. It is waiting for you to create a masterpiece that depicts your heart’s desire.

Despite your fears, nothing has been irreparably “screwed up” yet. There is still time! This card heralds the opportunity to take the courageous journey toward your bliss. The only caveat is you must stop to identify what bliss means for you. This must occur before you can move on to new horizons. If you can name your bliss, you are on your way to claiming it!

The Three of Wands asks you to stop, overview, and think about where you want to go. Is there something you still want to have, achieve, or be? Well you can still have it! The world is wide open and waiting. You may just have to leave your own “small island,” which is a symbol for your comfort zone. If you act on what you truly want for yourself, you won’t ever regret it. Taking the initiative in the face of fear enhances your courage, which in turn becomes self-esteem. Who doesn’t want to feel more confident about themselves?

You can still have your goal, but you must be clear on what your goal is. When it becomes fixed in your mind, it will serve as your treasure map, guiding you to unbelievable riches.

Are you clear about what you truly want out of life?

If someone were to ask you what you want from life, would you respond, “to be happy,” without even knowing what that looks like for you? Do you believe you’ve messed up your life, thinking you can’t get it back on track?

Let me tell you something. That’s just another lie from fear. It’s not true.

The man on the Three of Wands is considering his future. He’s richly dressed, implying that he’s an important person in his small corner of the world. Yet he feels unfulfilled. The man is not looking at you, he’s thinking about life. His life.

At first glance it appears he is overlooking a vast desert. A sandy wasteland with little promise. What kind of future is that?! But always with the tarot, you must look a little closer. You will see that these are not barren sands, but the orange glowing waters of sunrise or sunset. Ships are crossing to and from their ports of safety. Sunrise and sunset are the magical times of “in-between.” Magical transformations always happens at these times (see the Two of Swords). The man’s heart is yearning to embark, to leave his small island home. Somehow unconsciously, this has always been his dream. He wasn’t sure what he was missing, but now he knows. He took the time to stop, think, and get clear about what he really wants out of life. Now that he is clear on his objective, he can open himself to the wonders of the world. He’s going to go for it!

Today the Three of Wands asks you to stop and think about where you are going.

With your bliss in mind, ask yourself, “Am I doing at least one thing today that contributes to achieving this life for myself?” If the answer is “No,” don’t beat yourself up. Get up and change it. Make it priority number one tomorrow. Wanting to “be happy” isn’t clear enough. What does “happy” really mean for you? Above the Temple leading to the Oracle of Delphi were the words: “Know Thyself.” If you really do take the time to know yourself, then all you desire can finally manifest. Knowing yourself includes knowing your bliss. The Three of Wands also depicts ships in the waters symbolizing trade and communication. Reach out to others, to create new pathways toward mutual success. Cooperation, learning and leaving your small pond, will help you achieve your goal.

Above the Temple leading to the Oracle of Delphi were the words: “Know Thyself.”

If you really do take the time to know yourself, then all you desire can manifest like magic.

Three of Wands in a Love ReadingNew Relationship

The future is full of possibility for your new partnership. The success of the relationship is left to the choices you currently make. You are both be entering this union during a pivotal time of personal growth. This card can also signify exciting adventures abroad.

Long Term Partnership

The Three of Wands beckons you and your partner to start making plans for the future. You are both feeling free to make decisions that are in alignment with your mutual desires. A major transition is happening, clearing the horizon for unlimited possibilities. This card can also signify excitement about an upcoming trip or change of residence.

Seeking Romance

If you are single the Three of Wands reminds you that the world is wide open and waiting for you. You may need to leave the security of your deserted island to explore what is out there. Be open to the potential for happiness when this card appears. Your future remains a blank slate.

“Releasing the past.” Six of Cups (Reversed) | Tarot CardWhen the Six of Cups appears in reverse, it may indicate that you are clinging to the past and finding it difficult to move on.

The past is powerful. Looking back on it can conjure feelings… some good, and some that are just awful. The important thing to remember is that each day is new. Old hurts are not guaranteed to transpire just as they did before…unless you are replaying them in your head and not letting go.

Although the past carries its weight, it doesn’t dictate the course of the future unless one consciously replays old hurts in the mind, hindering the process of letting go. This card encourages a mindful exploration of the present, untethered from the shadows of the past.

When looking back, do you focus more on the negative then the positive?

The message of the Six of Cups is to take a moment to reflect on the happy moments from your past and use them as a guide to what brings you fulfillment and joy in the present and future. It’s important to remember that the pursuit of safety and security is necessary, but it shouldn’t take over your life and cause you to forget about the things that truly make you happy.

By reflecting on your past, you can tap into the forgotten parts of yourself and remember what you truly want in life. This can help you set goals and take action towards achieving them. It’s important to prioritize your happiness and not get caught up in the routine of securing basic needs. Remembering what brought you joy in the past can help you create a vision for your future and live a fulfilling life.

The past can only repeat itself in our minds; new opportunities surround us in the present.

Today, do a symbolic ritual to let go of past hurts that are causing interference with the present. Take out a piece of paper and write out three things from your past that you fear are going to happen again. Find a large (fire safe) container and set the list aflame. As the paper burns, watch how quickly the past can be released. Take the ashes outside and scatter them to the winds. Those ashes are just like your thoughts. You can release them. You don’t want those messy ashes spread around your house…why keep them in your head? The past only repeats itself in our minds. Today, you can choose a totally new approach. New opportunities surround you, but you must be present to take full advantage of them. This moment is where life is happening. Let go of hurt, or fear from the past. Be present!

Six of Cups (Reversed) in a Love ReadingNew Relationship

The person you are inquiring about is mentally trapped in the past. Although it is time for them to let go of an old identity, expectation, or person, they feel resistant to surrendering it. Sometimes the challenge of the Six of Cups reversed is looking for a relationship partner to fulfill unmet needs from childhood.

Long Term Partnership

You (or a partner) are having trouble letting go of the past. Something significant has made its imprint and is indirectly playing out in your current relationship life. Avoid scorekeeping or nursing an old grievance. It’s time to honestly communicate about what is bothering you and seek closure.

Seeking Romance

You might hear from a past love or get contacted by a former relationship partner. Don’t be surprised if the past comes knocking. This could be an ideal time to bring closure to old issues.

The past usually repeats itself, so try not to trick yourself into thinking that “this time will be different.” Learn from your personal history instead of repeating it.

“Navigating unpredictability.”The Wheel of Fortune (Upright) | Tarot CardThe Wheel of Fortune symbolizes unpredictable events, both considered fortunate and unfortunate.

These are the events that occur with seeming randomness. They leave you feeling as if you have no control over them. The figures on the turning wheel illustrate that life moves in cycles where it brings periods of feeling on top of the world (like the sphinx), and other times when you feel down and out (the descending snake and Anubis, the God of the Egyptian Underworld). Chaotic and unplanned things do occur in life. The rim of the wheel represents the external world with all its chaotic unpredictability. The center of the wheel represents your center, the seat of your best self. If you can find you way home to your center, then the random things that occur in the world outside of your control will not feel as disturbing.

Are you stuck at the rim of the wheel, rising or falling with each unexpected event in your life that happens?

Can you take unexpected events in stride, or are you rigid and inflexible? Do you panic when something doesn’t go exactly according to plan?

The Wheel of Fortune floats amid the clouds, the domain of the element of Air. The sphinx, symbolizing all that is mysterious and unknowable, is seated on top of the wheel wielding a sword. The sword and the cloud imagery represent the element of Air and symbolize the powers of the mind to find the patterns in seemingly random occurrences. We do this every time we chaotically shuffle tarot cards and identify the patterns laid out in front of us. The mind organizes data through patterns. Amid the Hebrew letters around the wheel are four English letters: T-A-R-O. If read clockwise, starting and ending at the top of the wheel they spell “TAROT.” If you begin reading the letters at the bottom of the wheel clockwise, they spell “ROTA” (Latin for wheel). The Wheel of Fortune can reveal patterns in seemingly random occurrences.

In her book, “Following Your Path,” Alexandra Collins Dickerman perceived the rim of the Wheel of Fortune as a metaphor for the changeable external world. If you wrap up your whole identity and self-worth with what everybody “out there” thinks at the rim of the wheel, then you will be doomed to emotionally rise and fall with each acceptance or rejection you receive. However, if you can reconnect with your center (symbolized by the hub of the wheel), you can remain centered, without taking the chaotic ups and downs of life personally. When you operate from your center life no longer feels random, and you can control the direction of the wheel of your life.

When the Wheel of Fortune appears, it is time to get off the emotional roller coaster and detach from external dramas.

Staying fixed at the edge of the wheel can get emotionally exhausting rather quickly. The truth is we don’t have complete control of every life event that occurs. Sometimes bad or unfair things just happen. Other people have free will and can also act unpredictably. Good things can happen to awful people, and terrible things can happen to good people. Some people win the lottery without having done anything to deserve it. Others get hurt, through no fault of their own. In life, events rarely go exactly according to plan. These occurrences are outside of our control. However, you do have the ability to control how you respond to life. You can either choose to let your best self handle the situation, or the part of you that harbors fear.

The Wheel of Fortune appears when it’s time to take unexpected things in stride. Good or bad. Fair or unfair. Don’t take random events in life personally. All you have control over is you and your chosen response. Choose to respond with excellence. Reclaim your connection with your wise center. Sit peacefully within the eye of the storm. View your current situation with the higher awareness that resides within you. If you are centered, you will operate from a place of great personal power. The Wheel of Fortune foretells good luck for those who find their way back to their center.

“Take off the blindfold to see all that you are.”Eight of Swords (Reversed) | Tarot CardThe reversed Eight of Swords suggests that you are breaking free from the self-limiting beliefs that once held you back.

Old fears that once had a great hold over your life and are now losing their grip. Reversed cards can indicate inwardly-directed healing is occurring around the issues that the symbols the card portrays. In the case of the Eight of Swords it indicates that the metaphorical blindfold is coming off, allowing you to see yourself, with clearer perspective. You can choose to see the whole you, as opposed to only seeing the worries, fears, or limitations that surround just a small part of you. The Eight of Swords reversed represents escape. Like Harry Houdini, you are wriggling out of the mental traps that used to bind and blind you. You are becoming more adept at seeing yourself clearly, without the outworn blindfold. You can see more of your opportunities and gifts. You can begin to see whatreallymakes you happy in this life. Without the blindfold you can see the light again, and your worth. You can see you are so much more than what you are worried about at any given time.

What do you see, with the fog of fear now lifting?

Fear and self-doubt can blind us to the present moment and make us feel stuck in the past. It’s time to take a closer look at the situation and recognize that there are opportunities to free yourself.

If you have experienced trauma or feelings of worthlessness in the past, it’s important not to let those experiences define you. Instead, focus on your unique worth and the positive impact you have on those around you. Remind yourself of the people who love and support you.

The imagery on the card may seem bleak and hopeless, but there is always a way out. Look for the abandoned swords that surround the woman in the card and use them to cut yourself free. Don’t give up without a fight. Stand up to your fears and take control of your situation. You are a survivor and you are worthy of a happy and fulfilling life.

The reversed Eight of Swords indicates that you are making progress towards freeing yourself from these mental shackles.

What are all the various roles you play in life? Are you an Artist? Lover? Mother? Writer? Musician? Brother? Sister? Teacher? Wise One? Healer? Collector? Best friend? Scholar? Expert? Gardener? Father? Daughter? Tarot reader? Your roles change depending on who it is that you are interacting with. Also, each role is only one piece of all that you embody. Don’t feel trapped by limiting yourself to only one role, blindly worrying about one aspect of your life that fails to encapsulate “the whole you.” You are not one dimensional. Look at all your complex roles you play in this life. Write them down. Remember all that you encompass. Take off the blindfold and cut away your bonds. See the value of the whole you with eyes wide open. This will cause the fears surrounding only one part of your life to look small by comparison to your totality. Reclaim the gift of perspective. You will be free whenever you choose to be.

Eight of Swords (Reversed) in a Love ReadingNew Relationship

The person you are asking about is likely coming out of a difficult situation and may need more time. Try not to rush them into commitments they are not ready to make. Be patient and compassionate. If the love is meant to be, it will be. The less you try to control the situation, the better it will turn out.

Long Term Partnership

Your role in your relationship is just one part of you, not the whole you. You are far more than “the other half” of another person. You are a whole within yourself. Remind yourself of the other roles you play in this life. It’s time to restore balance. There is so much more to do and be independent of your relationship.

Seeking Romance

You are distant enough from a bad relationship that you can finally see it clearly. You may be wondering, “How did I put up with that garbage for so long?” Thank your heart, mind, and spirit for not breaking during that trying time. You are set up for success now. Smile at the future that is just coming into being. Your heart is bouncing back.

Looking for more? Tap here to read about the Eight of Swords Upright!

“Reclaiming inner balance and aligning with your true values.”Nine of Pentacles (Reversed) | Tarot CardIf the Nine of Pentacles appears reversed, it asks if you are tolerating anything in your life that is beneath your personal standards of excellence.

Often when you are immersed in a messy relationship, environment, or situation, you can slowly become blind or numb to it. After a while you forget to even notice anything that is out of balance. This becomes the new normal.

Living with garbage can unconsciously make you feel like garbage. Take an honest assessment of your personal environment. Look within your heart for any garbage that needs to be taken out.

Does your environment and state of mind meet with your best standards of excellence?

Are you happy with the way things are? Is there some work you need to do on yourself or your personal space to improve?

The reversed Nine of Pentacles is a call to action, urging you to reclaim your sense of autonomy and to cultivate an environment and lifestyle that truly resonates with your inner self.

It emphasizes the importance of self-reliance, personal growth, and the pursuit of an existence that is aligned with your personal values and goals. This card serves as a reminder that true abundance and satisfaction come from a deep connection with oneself and from creating a life that is in harmony with one’s deepest values. Much like the beautiful garden on the card, your environment needs to exemplify stately beauty. This includes your state of mind. Know that you deserve the best and refuse to accept anything that undermines your sense of self-worth. Speak up and take control of your personal garden today. Take the hood off the falcon and train your focus on improving anything that does not meet with your standards. You deserve the best!

“Meaningful work.”Eight of Pentacles (Upright) | Tarot CardThe Eight of Pentacles represents immersing yourself in work that gives your life meaning.

It suggests giving one-hundred and ten percent to the tasks in front of you. This card reminds you to value the skills you are mastering and acknowledge how they improve the lives of others. Giving your best effort ensures that you can go out into the world with your head held high, confident in your abilities and your value.

Do you truly appreciate the work that you do?

What skills are you honing each day, to improve your life? Is it time to stretch yourself, past your comfort zones, toward fulfilling work?Today, enthusiastically take up the tasks in front of you, and give one-hundred and ten percent.

The craftsman on the card busily inscribes his Pentacles (symbols for manifestation) with a hammer and chisel. Hammers represent focused power and accuracy. They channel energy toward their target. We’ve all heard the phrase, “hitting the nail on the head.” The craftsman loves his work. It provides a means of focusing his powerful, creative energy. He wears a blacksmith’s apron, giving him the power to bend even the strongest materials toward his vision. A pathway connects his workshop to the little village in the distance. This symbolizes that his work connects him with others. To the townspeople he is not just “the Craftsman.” He is also the master of eight apprentices, the beloved teacher at the monastery, gaining the town’s affection for his compassion and kindness. The craftsman is also very funny, bringing laughter to the villagers, with his dry wit and humor. The craftsman doesn’t just do work for the village for financial gain. Each day, he uses his work as a vehicle, to improve his community, connect with others, and better himself.

Being fully engaged on the work that you do is very empowering. It transforms your energy from being reactive, to being proactive. Your job is not merely a means of making money. The skills you are mastering connect you with society, which provides you with a platform to improve it. This allows you to put your own unique stamp on the world, and to change the energy of your environment. How are you improving your world with the work you do? Are you making it a better place?

Today, let the Eight of Pentacles guide you to enthusiastically take up the tasks in front of you and give your all.

Value the work that you do, and others will too. Work isn’t just labor. It is your contribution for the betterment of all. If your current work feels limiting, then it’s time to find something that utilizes your best attributes and talents. Instead of resenting the job at hand, change the energy. This may require you to place yourself in a new position that brings more learning or fulfillment. You are in control of how you employ your skill set, and where you focus your energy.

Don’t just endure work. It’s more than a job, it’s your platform for making the world a better place. The Eight of Pentacles foretells hard work ahead, but with great success as a result.

“The past.” Six of Cups (Upright) | Tarot CardThe Six of Cups is a card that often signifies nostalgia and looking back at the past.

The Six of Cups represents looking back at what made you happy in the past. Many people look at their past and fixate on the difficult moments worthy of therapy sessions. However, if you look at your past in its totality, you will realize that along with difficulties, there were times when you were joyful and optimistic about the future. The past holds important clues as to what will bring you fulfillment in the future. If you’ve felt happy before, you can feel happy again.

Who were you at your happiest?

Has the pursuit of security taken over your life, causing you to forget your joy? Is it easier to remember the bad things that happened in the past, rather than the good?

The children on this card are part of the little girl’s happy memory. The girl is receiving a gift of flowers. Flowers and gardens are her bliss! There are so many joyful feelings that flowers conjure up for her. In the future, she wants to have a house, garden, and courtyard, just like this! The children feel completely safe in their secure courtyard. A guard is posted in the background to ensure the children can play in the gardens without a care in the world. To emphasize their protection, a large shield is emblazoned on the walkway rail. These children have more than their basic needs met. They are free to be creative, laugh, and grow in safety and security. The flowers emerging from the cups symbolize that all is thriving happily. The children look at life with complete confidence and optimism, that the future will be just as happy as this moment.

When your basic needs are met (food, shelter, safety, security), you can thrive. You can begin to develop self-esteem and place your attention on the goals and dreams that you wished for yourself as a younger person. As an adult, your chief responsibility is to see that you have your basic needs in place. This ensures you can focus on what brings you fulfillment and happiness.

The Six of Cups asks you to remember what brought you bliss.

What brought you happiness way back when? This will remind you of who you really are, and what life pursuits will bring you fulfillment in the future.

The problem for many adults is that they forget to return to their bliss once their basic needs have been established. Adults can never seem to make enough money to feel safe. They can never tear away from work long enough to enjoy the afternoon. People get so caught in the routine of securing basic needs, that it overtakes every waking moment. Even if the needs are met, people are programmed to keep securing more. They end up identifying more with the guard illustrated on the card and forget the child within. Pretty soon they can’t even remember their hopes and wishes leading to their abandonment.

If you’ve gotten your basic needs for safety and security established, it is important to return to the forgotten parts of yourself. Your dreams and wishes can still come true, but first you must remember them. Look back at the happier times in your life for clues as to what you want your future to be like. If you can remember the feeling of being happy, you can most assuredly have it again.

Six of Cups in a Love ReadingNew Relationship

It feels as if you’ve known your new love interest forever. There is a shared sense of familiarity between you. You can sense what the other is thinking or is about to say. You may share similar childhood experiences or even feel a past-life connection. The Six of Cups can also represent a partner with an eternally young, childlike spirit, especially when accompanied by Pages.

Long Term Partnership

The Six of Cups is a reminder of happy times gone by. If you and your partner haven’t been feeling as enthusiastic about your current life, it may be time to revisit a place you found special in the past. If there are current relationship difficulties, they are likely rooted in an issue that was never fully resolved from the past. It’s time to seek closure.

Seeking Romance

If you are single, this card may alert you to an old attachment that is unintentionally blocking you from experiencing new relationships. When your heart is occupied with a past love, you are unconsciously broadcasting to others, “Sorry, I already have a love. I don’t have room for you.” Perhaps it’s time to do a cord-cutting ritual to finally let that past love go.

“Communication in Relationships.”Two of Cups (Upright) | Tarot CardThe Two of Cups symbolizes harmonious partnerships that are meant to be.

The Two of Cups stands for the power and beauty of meaningful partnerships. These relationships can be based on love (as is the case with the couple pictured here), however, they can also be platonic partnerships based on mutual interests or goals. The message of this card is to create harmony in your most important relationships through positive and honest communication.

The Two of Cups asks you to see the other person’s point of view, and to communicate in a manner that gives everyone the ability to walk away with their dignity affirmed. This goes for personal relationships, business partnerships, friendships, and family members. The message of the card is that none of us gets to where we are all by ourselves. We need cooperation to survive in this world.

Do you let this person know how much they matter to you?

Who is the “other” in your most important current relationship? Do you need to get out of your own head and see another’s perspective to restore harmony?

The Two of Cups pictures a loving couple. The woman is crowned with a wreath reminding us of the World card, and the completion of her old life. The man is crowned with flowers, reminding us of the strength card. He now has the self-discipline and inner strength to open his heart to another. The couple is separated by the staff of Hermes, the Greek messenger God of communication. Topping the staff of Hermes is a giant lion’s head with wings. This represents that each person in the relationship will have their own sense of pride. They are very different, and yet it is important that each feels their differences are honored, not disparaged. The lion head can quickly override the relationship if the ego is damaged by either party. A wounded ego can severely damage a once loving partnership. The only way to ensure harmony, is for both parties to communicate (the staff of Hermes) in a manner that makes each feel equally important and valuable, leaving their personal dignity intact.

When the Two of Cups appears, it is time to reaffirm and reconnect with the people that make up your most important relationships.

Do some relationship maintenance. Let another know how you feel to get an issue resolved. See another’s perspective. Resolve differences with honest, kind, and open communication. The Two of Cups reminds you that you can’t do everything alone. It also advises you to validate the people you care about most.

People you love need to know that they matter. Don’t assume that they already do. Give a thoughtful gift or send a loving message. See the divine light in their eyes and recognize how much richer they make your life. Communicate in a way that restores harmony.