Using The Tarot As A Navigational Tool- Part 2

People often consult the cards when they feel at a loss, when they have lost their sense of direction.
Unexpected life events may throw someone off balance or the cumulative effects of daily existence reach such a level that the stress can become crippling. Seeking guidance through the Tarot is one of many available options. People sometimes begin at a party, or visit a reader just for fun, but deep down, even then there is often a serious undercurrent beneath the surface of the novice explorers apparently cavalier attitude.

Turning your fate over to the cards can be emotionally risky, but it doesn't have to be. First of all, remember that almost nothing is locked in place. The cards do not determine anything.  I use the word "almost"  to avoid sounding as if I am making some kind of absolute statement, which is something I tend to try to avoid doing. We make use of the Tarot, Medicine Cards, Numerology  and all other esoteric tools to help us understand why something may be happening, or to be aware of a potential problem. They are useful because they help us to be more conscious, focus and better able to creatively adapt to whatever comes our way. One can also make use of one's basic intuition. Nothing else is really needed. The cards are supplemental tools, not required necessities.

For those more comfortable with prayer, that too is more than enough to help you find your way. It is important though when doing so to not just utter prayers, chants, or sing sacred songs. You must remember that you are asking for guidance, and understanding, not for favors. You must place yourself in a position of openness- what might be thought of as a listening state of being. This is the universal aspect which connects all traditions.

Now, back to the Tarot:
Today we'll start with one which could seem a little scary, but usually is not- DEATH
One thing comes to an end as another begins. One door may close, but then another opens.
Very rarely does this card indicate the literal death of a person. When it does mean that, rest assured that the person who is the subject of the reading almost always knows and has already accepted this event into their life. In cases of serious illness, a person senses when their time is near, and they very often exercise a certain measure of control over their exact time of departure.

Like all of the other cards, this one is a powerful visual metaphor. There are lessons to be learned from each even when you are still just learning about the cards, studying them, feeling their impact upon you. If one should make you a little uncomfortable, just set it aside and try not to worry about it. Trust that when it's time for you to understand that particular lesson that you will. Patience is a very big part of understanding in general. As you become more familiar with each card, your overall confidence will grow. Some books place a great deal of emphasis upon the layout and advocate a particular spread. Just try them, eventually you will find what works for you, and as you gain more experience you will be less and less dependent upon any guide book you may be using. The cards contain all the clues they you need. Many students begin with some form of the Rider Deck. Wikipedia has high quality images from the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck, and information on the iconography of the cards.

And of course you don't need to wait for the snails pace of this blog. Just shuffle those cards, which may take a little getting used to (because they are a little larger than normal playing cards) and then see what turns up. Remember, we are here to learn and grow in all possible ways. And learning at your own pace allows you to take your time and really come to understand deeply.

May your voyage be filled with wonder, joy and love,

Craig