Anchor - Lenormand #35.

About the Card

Many readers of the Lenormand cards give the meaning of job/work/career to the Anchor card.  I often refer to this meaning as well.

When interpreting this card in a layout and the meaning of work is not applicable it can indicate some sort of security.  In love or relationship questions it promises a steady and solid connection.  In business related questions that are not necessarily related to work it will bring encouragement that is based on reliability.

The Anchor has multi level meanings as with most cards in the Lenormand deck.  It provides a “grounding” to a situation.  One interesting thing to note is that if you are anticipating change in regards to a circumstance or even a person this card will not lend hope to that.  There will be no obvious change.

If you look at the image (French Cartomancy deck) you will see the anchor with a long chain that is not attached to anything. At one time it was secured to the boat in the background.  The boat lies still in one spot too and it is not adrift.  Both these images suggested “staying put”. It would take a strong gust of wind to move both these objects and it would take an even bigger shift in direction to change a situation.

I look forward to seeing the Anchor card when it is place next to most of the cards in the deck.  There are some exceptions, of course.  If it were to lie next to the Tree card it might indicate a potential problem with the health that would be difficult to diagnose or treat.  Other cards must accompany this duo that will reveal some kind of unpleasant issue.  

Is the Scythe card powerful enough to rattle the chain of the anchor? When the Scythe fall behind or before the Anchor card it will foretell that a severance was necessary to bring back some stability. This could actually mean the loss of a job.

If the Scythe card falls beneath or after the Anchor card it will portend a job with no future. When you are using some of the other meanings for the Anchor, this duo could hint at surgery if the Tree card is very close by. Let’s say there is no health issue, then this duo can mean that you will meet someone through a work related circumstance.

However, if you decide that the meaning of “work” is not applicable, the duo will tell you that it is time not to stay put any longer and to apply some quick action in order to restore some sense of confidence  in the situation or with a person involved.

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The Gypsy Oracle Cards / Sibilla della Zingara / Oraculo de la Gitana / Sibylle de la Bohemienne / Zigeuner Orakelkarten.  The 52 cards have meanings written on them in 5 languages - English, Italian, Spanish, French and Dutch.  This is in keeping with many of the sibilla style decks.  Personally I like the black border around each card because it helps to bring out the image.  The English version on the top of the card is surrounded by a black background.  It is difficult to make out the name unless you bring the card very close to you but of course you will most likely recognize the image.

The size is the same as the Vera Sibilla Italiana and has almost the same feel to it in as far as the artistic imagery.  There are a few variations of cards but in essence they are identical.

I had a wonderful and informative comment from “Axi” regarding this deck.  Check it out HERE.

In the image below you can see these cards in the Simple Elements Layout

It is read the same way as the Vera Sibilla deck as in the previous post

The Simple Elements Layout using the one of the Sibilla decks.

QUESTION: Will B. get a promotion?

CARD #1 - Current thoughts. The card that falls in this spot will reveal to you where the energy of your thoughts is. It does not matter which [way] you selected to do this reading.

IL LADRO 10 of Diamonds. (Thief)

This card is common in the sibilla style decks. When it falls in this first spot it suggests that B. is in a negative frame of mind regarding the promotion that he wants. He is thinking of all things that could go wrong instead of focusing on what could go right. The Ladro card is indicating that B. is feeling much low self esteem at this time and he is hiding his insecurities by putting on a daring front.

B. needs to change his attitude or he will attract the possible theft of his promotion by not getting it.

CARD #2 - Your feelings. The second card will expose the emotions going on. The feelings can range.

PRIGIONE 9 of Spades. (Prison)

Another common card among the sibilla style decks. This card is suppose to reflect B.’s emotions surrounding his question. As you can see in the image he is chained to a pillar. The Prigione card is warning B. that his feelings are self defeating. He must change his outlook and fast. The first 2 cards are colored in darkness where there should be optimism. B.’s emotions are holding him captive and if he ever thought that he would get a promotion with his head dragging on the ground filled with self doubt- it would truly be a miracle.

CARD #3 - Plan of action. The card that has been placed here will provide options or a suggestive energy to apply directly connected to cards #1 & #2. This is what you should do. Depending on which card falls here, a way to the solution will be shown. If you see a card of inaction and you do not change that then do not be surprised if the result in card #4 is negative or not to your liking. Of course there are times when no action is the best course but you will have to intuitively determine that yourself.

ALLEGRIA 9 of Clubs. (merriment)

Ahh finally, a more positive card. The advice of Allegria is to loosen up and to stop worrying about the promotion. Go out and have a good time. Obviously, B. should give his own head a good shake and start to think more optimistically. He should actually be anticipating a reason for celebration.

Card #3 provides options or a suggestive energy to apply directly connected to cards #1 & #2. This is what you should do. B. has to lift the veil of his own poor attitude and to  utilize the advice of card 3.

CARD #4 - What can happen. The last card is the result, outcome or probable solution. Here you will find what happens when you apply action coupled with emotions regarding something on your mind. The previous cards will be very beneficial to you because within each card is a promise for success regardless if initially it appears negative. You have a choice in most areas of your life. This card will show you the by-product of your efforts.

L’AMANTE Jack of Hearts. (Lover)

It looks like B. will be playing at his own celebration. L’amante promises a good outcome. It will not be the exact results he was hoping for in so far as the promotion. The reason I am saying this is because in the image he is awaiting his sweetheart to come to the window or door. He is serenading the object of his love. This means the promotion is not complete and he will still have to do some fancy foot work to get where he really wants to be. Or perhaps play the song his boss wants.

It looks like B. will take the advice of card #3 which will lead him to the materialization of card #4

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Oraculo de La Gitana   (Gypsy Oracle Cards) came out earlier this year, in February.  They are  created by Lo Scarabeo & the publisher is Llewellyn.  At first I hesitated on getting this 52 card deck.  I have not had a chance to  review the cards or do a layout with them.  I don’t expect any huge surprises other than some different assigned names for some cards.  But I do like the color scheme of the artwork.

I prefer to keep the Sibilla style decks I own to a minimum because they  are duplicates of the original Zigeuner Wahrsagekarten mixed with a bit of Kipperkarten and a dash of the Lenormand.

Once you get the knack of reading one of these style decks, others are easier to comprehend as well.

The real challenge is to learn a completely new type of deck like the Symbolon or  Rainring.                

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I love this video by Madonna.  It is 4 minutes in duration.  Sit back and experience the Tarot.

Sometimes when you want the guidance of the cards you may not really have a specific question.  Times like this using a simple layout with only a few cards to interpret is a much easier way to zoom in to what you are thinking even though you may not consciously realize that those things are on your mind.

SIMPLE ELEMENTS LAYOUT

The Cosmic deck is used to illustrate the Simple Elements Layout and to demonstrate the process of reading the cards.  An emotionally provoking deck.

STEPS in using this Layout

• shuffle your deck in the usual manner that is most comfortable for you.  It does not matter which deck you use.  I am using the Cosmic Tarot.  In an upcoming post I will demonstrate one of the Sibilla decks as well in the Simple Elements Layout.
• you can cut the deck in 3 piles and then pick 1 pile or fan the cards out on the table
• if you fan the cards, [way #1] before selecting the first card clear you mind (if possible) and try not to ask a direct question. [way #2]  ask for guidance regarding a situation or person. [way #3] make a wish
• do the same for the remainder of the cards.

CARD #1 -  Current thoughts.  The card that falls in this spot will reveal to you where the energy of your thoughts is. It does not matter which  [way] you selected to do this reading.

8 of Swords -  Let’s suppose that there was no question asked.  Right away you get the feeling that there is pacing going on. The female is still and observing.  The male is either walking away from the swords or thinking about another way to go at them.  The person involved in the reading has a very worried mind. This card suggests that the person is on edge and has some serious thinking going on in their head.

CARD #2 - Your feelings.  The second card will expose the emotions going on.  The feelings can range.  

Key 13- The Death card - the person most likely couldn’t care less about things. It is too soon to tell which way the feelings will develop.  Right now there is a stillness which is the result of the worries depicted in card #1.  Within the Death card is hope.  The passion will return.  The caring will once again re-appear once the fear has been dealt with.  The person is afraid to get involved again.  The feelings are in a “cutting off” stage.

CARD #3 - Plan of action.  The card that has been placed here will provide options or a suggestive energy to apply directly connected to cards #1 & #2.  This is what you should do.  Depending on which card falls here, a way to the solution will be shown.  If you see a card of inaction and you do not change that then do not be surprised if the result in card #4 is negative or not to your liking.  Of course there are times when no action is the best course but you will have to intuitively determine that yourself.

5 of Wands - It looks like this person is taking steps to resolve some issue at hand.  Communication is action.  This card indicates there is some opposition but it is nothing serious, it is just bantering.  The stillness of card #1 has been broken.  The numbness of card #2 has been overcome.  In some cases physical activity needs to be  increased to attain certain goals.  Like getting off your butt and being active.

CARD #4 - What can happen.  The last card is the result, outcome or probable solution.  Here you will find what happens when you apply action coupled with emotions regarding something on your mind.  The previous cards will be very beneficial to you because within each card is a promise for success regardless if initially it appears negative.  You have a choice in most areas of your life.  This card will show you the by-product of your efforts.

Queen of Swords.  The queen when taken as a personality card shows tremendous promise of re-gained power.  She is in control and is not still & observing like in card #1.  She has picked up one of the 8 swords and has made a decision.  The person getting the reading done would have most likely had to keep a lid on their emotions mainly due to the cautions contained within card #2 Death.  

Let’s suppose it is a male getting the reading.  He will also access his power center, too.  Perhaps he was the type of male who let others walk all over him.  Well that will no longer be - he has learned to fight back. He is depicted in card #1 as either walking away or planning a strategic attack.  Obviously he won.

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The Simple 6 card layout is used to illustrate the question. Male B. is the seeker of the Lenormand session. Layouts need not be complicated- keep it simple. You can replace the past, present, future rows with other identifications, such as, decision made/results of decision/how will my decision affect me…. and so on.

The suggested meanings in quotation marks are from the tab beneath the header called LENORMAND CARD meanings 1-36 Question: Will B get married?

PAST- top 2 cards. LETTER + CROSS

27. LETTER – Covers a vast amount of areas –the written word. Easy enough to figure out by looking at the nearby cards. News, announcements, memos etc. Coupled with the BIRDS card juicy gossip. With the PARK card an invitation to a gathering or party. Near the CROSS card- disturbing news. When the SCYTHE & COFFIN cards are involved – obituary.

36. CROSS – A test. Related to Karmic situations. It’s a sure thing. In the positive aspects of this card there is a promise of completion. Describes something important. Coupled with the HOUSE card- negative news approaches regarding a family member. With the Moon card –profound thoughts. Near the SHIP card- a trip out of necessity.

.B received some important news in the recent past regarding his question about marriage. It appears as though there has been a final commitment (CROSS)or some type of resolution which has put an end to the many questions in his mind. Maybe the wedding invitations (LETTER)were just sent or an appointment has been made with a religious official. The CROSS card can represent a church as well.

PRESENT- middle 2 cards. HEART + ANCHOR

24. HEART- The positive emotional level, however it is influenced greatly by surrounding cards. The love department in a person’s life. Good cards nearby reinforce the strength of feelings contained within. Affection, caring. As a person (Jack of Hearts) suggests a romantic or potential love interest. Coupled with the GENTLEMAN card will describe a love-filled individual. Near the CROSS card- a Karmic affair with a fated feeling. With the DOG card-doesn’t get much better –utmost loyalty in love.

35. ANCHOR – What you do for a living. Strengthens neighboring cards so that there is more security. Finding the target or goal. As a characteristic, someone who is dependable. Coupled with the WHIP card will indicate 2 jobs. With the MOUSE card –loss of position.

.In the current state surrounding B there is a strong suggestion that love is here to stay. The ANCHOR card reinforces the power of the love within the HEART card. There still is some work (ANCHOR) to do and that is understandable as there is a wedding to plan.

FUTURE- bottom 2 cards. LADY + HOUSE

29. LADY- Female seeker of cards. The partner of the male getting the reading. When the GENTLEMAN & LADY cards fall in the “now” spot the suggestion is that these 2 people will see each other (if living apart) or be caught up in an important situation. Coupled with the MOON card- an emotional personality. With the MOUNTAIN card-unable to express feelings.When the BOOK card is beside either of these two cards & falling in the future spots, it can indicate meeting someone new especially if the CHILD card is involved. With the STORK card- return of a former lover or friend.

4. HOUSE = Wherever you live. When this card is beside the SHIP it can suggest a houseboat or trailer. Matters concerning the family members. A father or head of the household (King of Cups). Property.

.These two cards are suppose to answer the question. Lucky for B, his special LADY falls in the future spot. This is a very good omen as far as “people showing up in the future”. She is thinking about wanting a family (HOUSE) and all the wonderful things that go along with that. Her feelings of love a deep and unwavering. It looks like daddy (King of Cups) will lend a helping hand in all the preparations to come. Often parents do not or can not participate in a wedding. Yes it looks affirmative for B to get married.

The court cards are often confusing and it is often a challenge to identify who exactly is represented by the card. Often courts only depict situation and not people.  Many times both levels of interpretation a valid.  In my own experience I have seen it all,  in the Tarot layouts.  

The King of Swords will be featured in this post.

I find that the Robin Wood king can trigger emotional responses in a person even if they do not know what the associated meanings are.  

Wood’s image captures the power of the King of Swords. When I see this card in a layout it makes me stop & really think about the question I asked. 

Notice how he has his arms folded across his heart area suggesting that there is a “forced” control over the emotions. Robin writes about some of the symbolism of this card in Wood’s accompanying book .  

Who can the King of Swords be in a layout?  

He can represent “you” when you are in charge of a situation or when you need to get some control over yourself as well.  He reminds you that now is not the time to be wishy washy or to have your head in the clouds.  

Notice  the clouds on his robe.  This clearly depicts just how in control he is.  His head is way above the clouds and not in them.   If you are not certain how to interpret the King of Swords, try to visualize yourself in his place.  What are you thinking? What is it that you need to get done?  

Brace yourself, you are about to sit on a swing in the adult playground.

I place the swords suit with the Air signs of the Zodiac as I do with the spades from the standard playing cards.  He belongs to the cardinal sign of Libra (rules 7th house of partnerships, agreements, contracts, unions).  Libra is about fairness and justice.  There are no emotions in law.

If you are trying to determine what situation the King is representing it would most likely be about something professional such as legal matters (not always pertaining to law, either), dealing with important leaders in the community or being involved in a situation which requires strict discipline and an outlay of responsibility.

The King of Swords has a shadow side which does not make it’s appearance unless there are other supporting cards. He can represent an “enemy” like an ex husband, abusive father, a pimp, a powerful person with a “chip” on their shoulder - you know the kind I mean. 

The King of Swords is loyal and a no nonsense type of male.  He has the know how to run things  in a smooth, peaceful but forceful manner.

If you are a female and have met someone that fits the King’s description, the best way to his heart is through honesty, intellectual choices and respect.  (he likes sensuality displayed in a conservative manner, so save the hard core sexy lingerie for later … much later)

Playing Card - Jack of Clubs

The Lenormand Whip card represents many different traditional meanings such as conflict, aggressive behaviour, heated discussions, debates, arguments or a younger dark haired male who is found in the business world.

Some suggested combinations for this card are as follows:  ————>

- Lady or gentleman: representing the person getting their cards done.  The individual can be wound up about some situation which can been seen through nervous or combative dialogue.

-Ring: relationship problems, issues with arranging a contractual agreement, a commitment with a male who is found in the business arena

- Lily: An inexperienced male get a lecture from (King Spades) someone who is a peacemaker.

- Home: Family upset.  A father and son-in-law.

- Fish: Professional financial disturbances.  Having to fight to get a loan approved.

- Cloud: Deep fears. A father and son have a strained relationship

- Stork: Don’t get too smug, a shift of direction is coming

- Path: The only way to win, is to walk away, far away in another direction

- Snake: A mother and son.  Two business associates or coworkers have a personality conflict

- Child: A battle of wits.  2 males get into a head on confrontation.

- Heart - Jealousy, green eyed monster surfaces.  Strong feels for /or from a younger male.

- Ship:  It’s tough to stop the escalating problems.

- Dog: a hostile friendship.  Stop abusing your friend or visa versa 

- Book: The skeleton is in the closet and will remain there.

- Anchor: The debate is work related.  There is no solution to this situation.

- Coffin: A painful ending that is filled with anger.  An deal goes bad.  

- Fox:  A spy.  Someone is watching your every move.  

- Mountain: Issues with a powerful enemy such as the person who is after you job or partner.

- Letter: Negative news.  An email that sets you off.

- Tree: Health related setbacks, a migraine.  A blow to the head.

- Birds: Gossip of the worst kind.  Picking someone apart.

+ Tower: Trouble with people in authority, like a boss or supervisor.  Getting judged.

If you were to pick a deck of cards 30 years ago, you would have had a handful to choose from and it would not be an arduous chore like it is now.  Or you would still be in diapers   and maybe hitting puberty

The first thing you have to do is ask yourself what you want the deck to do.  Do you want it to give you the answers from the meanings you will have to memorize or look up in the accompanying book?  Do you want the deck to inspire you and to promote your psychic awareness through the imagery of the cards and a few keyword?  Are you a believer in angels, power animals, North American Indian/Asian/Qabalah etc. traditions?  

Do you want to psycho-analyze yourself and try and figure out what makes you tick at the present time? Do you want a certain deck because people are discussing it on a forum or in a blog?

Once you have answered some of those questions you should get a piece of paper and write down 6 things you want the deck to give you as far as accessibility to answers.  This way you will weed out many decks on the market.

After you decide that you can read reviews on the Internet about the various card systems.  You can usually see several pics belonging to decks as well.  Many websites offer free computer generated readings which will give you some idea of what they mean in certain spots.  Don’t forget that it is someone else’s opinion of someone’s else artistic & writing talents.    Unless the review is completely unbiased then only consider it slighlty.  I have read horrible reviews about cards/books only to find out that I felt differently than the person writing the review.  So be cautious on that one.

Ok now ask yourself how much time are you going to devote to learning this new deck you are about to purchase?   Even if you have a natural skill in reading card it will not happen overnight and can take many years to fully master. The acquired skill requires a lot of practice.  And some people just never get the knack of it.

Assuming that you are not just going to collect cards & that you will actually use them, you then need to jump right on in - buy the cards and begin.

Below you will see part of a Tarot reading from the February 10/08  entry involving Veronica.  

This post is a follow up to  the original question, “will Veronica go back to her previous work environment?”.  I can do this today because I have received confirmation as to the unfolding of this reading.  It is now approaching 3 months since this Tarot reading was done.  Today’s analysis of this reading is done in yellow. —————–>

card 9. - 5 of Cups. Many authors say that this position is also an influence closely connected the final card. Some read this card as Hopes & Fears. It really depends on how you feel like reading it. If you have a more uniformed technique when you read cards then stick to it. Without any doubt in my mind, I read card 9 as the outcome of the influence of card 8 - 7 of Wands* reversed.  

Initially I feel that things will not work out [this was true] as originally planned but the river does flow in a continuous manner.[an opportunity did manifest connected with the original hope] How is that connected to the obvious traditional meaning of regret or missed opportunity within this card? I choose not to read the overturned cups because I am drawn to the 2 individuals that are walking away towards the river which is in the background of the image. [as I think about what I wrote here and knowing what I know now- it is a by default situation]

As a fear card- Veronica is afraid things will not work out and she will regret her decision.  

As a hope card- Veronica is hoping that she will not have any regrets leaving her current “secure” job.

card 8. -7 of Wands* REVERSED. The spot of what others think or will do. The external influences related to the question. Reversed energy in this spot would typically suggest a delay or problem. [there was a long delay for sure]This card is generally positive in it’s upright position. Everyone reads reversals differently. The core meaning is still there and it is the energy that needs to be released constructively if that meaning is positive. If the reversed card is negative in nature to begin with, then the reversal might be a relief…………..The arrow that the angel is aiming is headed right for the male standing on the mound. He had a slight advantage.It seems to me the Angel’s arrow will throw him off that mound into the reversal position & in that process he will lose the only weapon he had in his hands.  [what this means is that Veronica did not get the position she originally applied for]

What this insight could mean is that the opportunity [it was a related-opportunity] has no other competition, meaning no one else would apply for it.  [double ditto] There is no need to fight for it.Has the threat of the 6 other wands been removed? Veronica should not let anyone take advantage of her. I want to read the reversal of the 7 of Wands* to indicate that Veronica’s position is strong and she will have to act quick. 

card 10. - The Knight of Wands. As the answer or outcome, here we have a feeling of speed again. [speed in the Tarot ended up being a "sudden" opportunity at a moments notice but about 10 weeks later ] Change is imminent. Whatever the outcome of this situation around Veronica is - it will be resolved abruptly. [ditto] Will she return to her previous work environment? The final card strongly suggests a shift in the wind.[the shift was another opportunity]

News is coming that will require some fast thinking. [fast thinking was the answer Veronica had to give on the spot] I did not find a yes or a no answer within the Knight of Wands. [there was no yes or no answer because the Tarot could not give specific details around the way the situation would manifest.  The Knight of Wands as the answer card states a positive direction connected to the original question, however, there was a twist.] (see Shustah foxes post).

Additional Information: Many readers draw a clarification card when a Court appears as the outcome card. Some readers take the last card and do another Celtic cross to gain more information around the person represented by this card. Is it a person, though?I think I will draw one more card, even though I have already put the cards away. The card I chose is The SUN.

A wonderful clarification card. Key #19 is definitely a YES. This card also symbolizes studies, books and learning and ties in very nicely with card #2 - 8 of Pentacles. The SUN is the only Major Arcana and the best one at that.  [the studies, books and learning involves the training which includes a substantial amount of paperwork. ] 

A few combinations

7 of Wands Reversed + SUN = the advantage or opportunity is larger than you can imagine- [ditto]

8 of Wands + SUN = very very good news [ditto]

5 of Cups + SUN = despite any regrets or disappointments the rays of the Sun will bring you happiness [ditto]

7 of Cups + SUN = the right choice is made [it wasn't really a choice made by Veronica, it was made for her, but she still had to agree]

2 of Pentacles + SUN = an increase in finances [anything is an increase when the flow is minimal]

8 of Pentacles + SUN = being happy with what is studied or learned  [hasn't happened yet as I write this]

Coming up next the Lenormand in my Simple Layout

For JULIE

I will interpret this reading using “simple” keywords since I designed it to be a “simple” layout.

It’s good when you have a question you need answered about a specific situation or person.

I’ll do the reading for the purpose of demonstrating this layout and how the cards can be read. II am only offering the “simple” version of it. But knowing me and my love of “reading the cards” I might get carried away.

Julie says “My question was to do with a close relationship, the cards fell as follows”

Past - Cards 1,5,8 describe the recent past-the last few days or the recent circumstance around your question. —————>

17 - STORK, Queen of Hearts -we all know this card means change.

7 - SNAKE, Queen of Clubs- the global meaning for this card is betrayal and all the associated spin off meanings of betrayal.

28 - GENTLEMAN, Ace of Hearts- this card represents a special man in Julie’s life. And we already know that she is asking about a close relationship.

INTERPRETATION: At first glance these 3 cards look suspicious. The snake tends to give people the creeps and it has several creepy meanings. The cards are describing a situation around the male in the most recent past. If the keywords are used the suggestion leans towards interference from another female (queen of clubs). I think this might be one of Julie’s concerns.

Yes there is another female of darker coloring involved and because this lies in the past, the worry of it coming in up in the future is less likely. Well I won’t know for sure until I get into the reading. I don’t have the layout in front of me & now that I have said that, I think I will take an image of this reading before I continue. I’ll use the French cartomancy deck for this illustration.

You will notice in the image the row of the Lady stands out. I like to lay clear plastic on the horizontal row of most layouts involving any of the sibilla style decks. Its easier that way to quickly find the starting point.

The SNAKE is a trigger card. This means that change has come to the man depicted by the Gentleman card because of or through the influences of the Queen of Clubs or the snake’s meanings.

The 2 queens can represent sisters or close girlfriends. There are several people involve in this scenerio. OK - that is one way to read those cards.

The other possibility is that the Gentleman has made a decision in the recent past that induced changes. He may have gotten involved in a situation to help these females out. He is an intelligent man who most likely will not risk what he has on a whim. Even though in the next column he faces the COFFIN card and this card is linked to the LADY - it does not have to be anything relationship shattering, but one should not rule out the possibility of some type of closure or or final decision.

Now-Cards 2, YOU (#29), 9 describe the now-what is going on with you -your thoughts and feelings.

3-SHIP-travel. Since this card is above the Lady card it can represent thoughts of taking a trip or thinking about someone who is away the the present time. Many time this card means “a desire or longing” for a person or for answers.

29-LADY- Julie’s card.

8-COFFIN-a completion. This card falls beneath the Lady and will indicate that she will soon have her question (s) answered. There is some sort of closure. This is not always negative and it can actually mean an end to worry.

INTERPRETATION: It appears as though Julie is preoccupied right now with regards the situation surrounding the Gentleman in the previous column of the past. She is not likely to be easily upset because the SNAKE card shows that Julie has a good head on her shoulders. She is very practical in her emotional disposition and is not about to jeopardize anything by over-reacting. Something similar has occurred to her before and she has managed to see it through. The card that the Lady faces is the CROSS. This influence is pending … and will be revealed in the next column.

The Lady is the trigger card. In this case, we can see that Julie’s thoughts about a possible completion or ending are important. It is not as it seems because within the influence of the coffin is a fortunate new thought process. If the SHIP represented travel, it is most likely that it would be cancelled or “shortened”. I feel that it should not be because there is a karmic issue going on and if that be the case, then it will happen whether it’s cancelled or not. You will be where you are supposed to be.

Immediate- Cards 3,6,10 describe the immediate future, a day or so. These cards will tell you what to anticipate.

16-STARS-heartfelt goals. Generally, this card is about wishes or the want of something or some one. It is also a card of creativity.

36-CROSS- a test. This card can be read many different way. Some readers attach a negative meaning to it by calling it a card of sadness or emotional heaviness. I see it as a solution.

2-CLOVER-a quick turn of events. A card that points to something fast. Mostly it brings a positive or fortunate influence.

INTERPRETATION: The Lady is heading for the influence of the CROSS. I want to read this as a test of feelings. This should be over in a few days. The end result has a surprising new direction. It looks like a plan may materialize after all. Julie’s happiness will come in the form of a release. Often much clarity is achieved when one goes through a testing period.

The Cross is the trigger card. The testing period will come because of a significant wish of the heart and out of this graduation of emotional searching happiness shall return.

Soon- Cards 4,7,11 describe soon, less than a week. It’ll give you an answer to your question.

Since the point of the simple layout is to get an answer or advice within a short time span, like about a week I’ll jump to this part of the reading next. Tip: look to the end of the reading to see the outcome and results and work backwards especially with the Lenormand.

18-DOG, loyalty. Who is this friend? Is it someone new?

25-RING, commitment. I see this as a renewal.

22-PATH,choice. A direction with options is fast approaching.

INTERPRETATION: I will just factor these 3 cards but you really should not read the cards like this out loud. All I’m doing is taking the reading apart to show you the process that should be going on in your head. Everyone is different and everyone learns in a unique way. The best thing to do is “find your own style”. What could happen is that the relationship passes the test (CROSS card preceding) and it goes into another direction or level. This direction will beneficial in the long run.

The final card in the lower right hand corner is not only the Path/Road but also the Queen of Spades. Traditionally this card represent an older woman, without a partner but in the case of this reading she is probably married because the ring is beside her. This female will become involved within the week and it will be more of a distraction than anything. She is connected to travel- look in the diagonal line and it will take you right to the SHIP card.

The RING is a trigger card. This means that the issue of commitment or unity is a result of questions about loyalty or friendship. It can force a decision. The Queen of spades can be another aspect of the Queen of Clubs. This means that due to challenging situations surrounding the or because of the Queen of Clubs she has now become the Queen of spades.

In conclusion: I don’t get the feeling that there is a detrimental situation around the relationship because in my experience the HEART card would have made it’s appearance with the SCYTHE looming close by. Even though there are 2 strong cards, CROSS and COFFIN that usually depict conclusions of one sort or another I don’t see these cards in an upsetting way. There is luck in this layout shown by the CLOVER and the luck is karmic in nature CROSS + CLOVER. This is more about “thinking” the worst rather than the worst actually happening.

Traditionally, CROSS + RING suggest an important commitment issue will occur which will lead to a significant decision in which direction to go.

A very close friend of Julie’s will be close at hand within the next week and the ambiguity will be resolved.

…well so much for the short and simple interpretation…

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fyi- There is an editing glitch

First of all you will need to select a deck of cards that you resonate with and want to learn how to read. It can be one of the many Tarot decks, oracle cards or the European sibilla style cards. Take each card and look at it while you are reading the booklet that comes with it or the accompanying book. This usually can’t all be done in one session and actually it is better to divide the time up so that you remember the gist of the card.

The easiest way to remember a few core keywords is to test your memory after each section of study. Even though journals can become bothersome they are a valuable step in the process of learning. After you go through this initial process some of what you have tried to memorize will stay with you but not all of it.

Everyone is anxious to do a layout right away even when they don’t know what the cards mean in any depth. This will require that you keep referring back to the book/booklet or your own personal notes.——>

I would suggest memorizing only 1 keyword when you start.

From that 1 keyword you will find your own associated meanings.

The next step is to really look at each card and analyze the scene or point of focus object. If you remember anything at all, remember the part of the scene that ties in with the 1 keyword.

Doing a one card draw is a simple layout but I think that it is better to do at least 2 cards because this way you will start to see the merging or blending of the 2 keywords. Out of that will come a combination meaning. This combined meaning is good for now. Take a look at the image of each card and try to tell a story or theme. It’s not as hard as it sounds. It is much more challenging when you have more cards staring back at you, in fact it gets overwhelming.

Keep it as simple as possible.

Did you notice any colors that stood out? What do these colors mean to you? Did you notice a certain part of the card that seems to jump out at you? When this starts to happen you are in the process of assimilating all the clues to give you a personal meaning.

Trust your cards and trust yourself that what you are feeling or thinking about these 2 cards is “right” for you. Often descriptions of cards are someone else’s interpretation of again another person’s interpretation.

There exceptions to this rule as well especially when you get into more traditional and rigid teachings. Don’t limit your perceptions.

Here is an example using the Mystical Lenormand.

The Stars + The Scythe

The Stars- one keyword - another popular meaning “success” The Scythe- one keyword - the ever popular meaning “slicing”

These 2 keywords tell you that success is short lived. When you look at the images you might get a different feeling that some “weeding” out of perhaps too many many goals (stars in the sky) will be necessary. There are other keywords associated with these cards but I really do think in the beginning stages it’s best this way. If you stop and think about it, using these 2 keywords can mean of variety of things to you especially if you had a question in mind at the time you select the cards.

Another alternative is to take one card at a time and get really into it until you “become” the card. This is the technique which I learned in my Qabalah- Tarot training. It is very effective. When you do it in this method, the image of the card will be in your mind down to the tiniest detail. Part of this process is to meditate on the card, close your eyes and then to visualize it & see yourself as one of the characters.

Of course, you may have already designed your own method.

The real test is when you sit down and read for someone else - that is truly the big test. Sometimes you can literally blank out if you do not have at least some core understanding of the cards before you and the connection with your “inner guide”. If you haven’t got either- don’t do the reading because most likely you will be unsuccessful or struggle with combinations.

I read two ways. It’s either card based or it is purely from energy triggers. I never know which way it will be until I actually sit down in front of the person. I choose my layout at the time of the shuffle and not before. I wait until I “hear” my intuition and will not proceed until then.

The reason for this is because I believe that this connection needs to be made right off the bat. You need to open yourself up to be an instrument for channeled information.

These two cards are a wonderful contrast in artistic perception depicting the Coffin card.  The Le Petit Jeu Lenormand (9 if diamonds) and the Mystical Lenormand (VIII = 8th house). 

Delays, hindrances, worries, quarrels, temporary drawback, loss and separation are some of the keywords.

In our story ——> the Argonauts (Jason’s group of heroes) are preparing to set sail for the kingdom of Colchis.   In Greek mythology Colchis was the location of the Golden Fleece that Jason needed to bring to his wicked uncle.  He had to perform several tasks before King Aeetes would give it to him.  Medea was the daughter of King Aeetes and later would become Jason’s wife.  

In the lower left side of the card you can see the Argonauts receiving supplies/food and in the lower right hand corner the Argonauts are carrying their ship.

In this card the main feature is the ship - meaning the transportation of something or some one.  In the meanings associated with the coffin card, renewal is one of them.  This can be seen in the exchange occuring in the lower left of the card.  And when the situation doesn’t move or gets deathly stagnant we continue to carry it on our backs until we can put it down. 

The feeling of the imagery is the act of movement and the coffin card represents the movement of things from one state to another.

The mystical Lenormand links the Astrological house 8 to this card. House 8 rules endings, death, transition and sexual energy as well. The coffinette is beautifully decorated as death should be because it is the movement from physical state to spirit/energy.

If you want to learn more about Jason and the Golden Fleece, there is a  documentary (45 minutes) which can be viewed —->HERE

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The last Ace of the series belonging to the Le Petit Jeu Lenormand.

#28. Ace of Hearts-The Man. This card is the male getting the reading. It will also represent the special man in a woman’s life. Depending on which layout you are using or where the Man (gentleman) falls within the spread, it can portend a future meeting with someone totally new. ————->

Some of the meanings on the card point to a united and happy family, joy, celebration and protection. These suggestions are very closely related to the Ace of Hearts in the regular playing cards and the Tarot Ace of Cups as well as several of the Sibilla decks. The following story also resonates with the hearts suit.

This man in the center of the image is Danaus, a greek mythological character. According to the story, Danaus and his wife Pieria had 50 daughters (would hate to see all her stretch marks, :)) and his twin brother had (you guessed it) 50 sons. To make a long story short these 50 cousins were to marry each other. Somewhere during this story Danaus takes off and ends up taking over the kingdom of Gelanor. Soon after that the twin brother (Aegyptus) arrived with his 50 sons. Danaus instructed each of each daughters to kill these 50 men and all but 1 survived. Danaus was furious at his one daughter and put her into the Argive courts. Aphrodite (goddess of love, lust and beauty) intervened and saved her.

In the bottom left corner of the card is a huge momument for burning incense. This symbolizes an offering to the gods during the rites of ceremony.

In the bottom right side of the card is a very large church filled with fancy pillars and arches. The meanings of this image can point to protection and unity as well as faith.

Flower- Buxus (boxwood), commonly used for hedges which protect and enhance. Also used in the creation of the white pieces used in chess which symbolizes strength.

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This is the first time I have really studied the imagery in the small Lenormand Astro Mythological deck in quite such depth.  I am enjoying this experience very much and want to share my findings with you.

The next Ace on tonight’s list is the Ace of Spades #29 depicting the female.  ——>

I love this card’s main image..  I think it is erotic. .

Some of the meanings on the card are as follows:  a meeting, accident, embarrassing quarrels, and ambiguous behavior.  These suggestions are more in keeping with the spades suit.

The scene in the main drawing is Europa and Zeus.  This is a wonderful story about love. Europa was a high class Phoenician woman who was abducted by Zeus.  

He was so enamored by her beauty that he took the form of a bull so that he could lure her towards him and then he took her through the waters to Crete. Technically he kidnapped her. Her children were fathered by Zeus even though she married Asterion.  

This is an appropriate story to represent the woman or female.  It’s all about love or the process of capturing a woman’s heart.

In the left hand corner of the card is a female in the doorway.  In the right hand corner there is a man sitting on a chair.  It looks like he is having a drink, maybe wine or some liquor.  Is he waiting for Europa?

Typically card #29 represent a special woman if you are a man doing the reading.  The question is just how far will you go to win the woman of your dreams.   True love is one of the  strongest  forces on this earth.

Flower- sweat pea, gentle and blissful pleasure.

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#31 Ace of Diamonds- The Sun.

Our scene shows Mercury picking up a letter from Harpocrates who coincidentally is the transformed Egyptian new born Sun, a child called Horus. Horus’s parents are Isis and Osiris. Now this is where it gets confusing because Horus could also be the man with the falcon’s head whose left eye was injured during his fight with his uncle Seth who murdered Osiris, his father? And this make Horus the brother of Anubis. ———>

Thus the name of the card. The meanings of letter, news, plans, hopes and secrets are linked to the 2 characters in the image. The adult Horus had the power to overcome darkness and his strength was in his silence.

In the lower left side of the card we see Argus reading the letter. In the image it looks like the face is full of measles so it is could be the giant with a hundred eyes. But so the story is in keeping with Jason, it can be the builder of the ship Argo used in the quest for the Golden Fleece. Argus belonged to the Argonauts- a group of Jason’s heroes. This ship is seen in the Ace of Clubs.

In the lower right side of the card stands Anubis guarding papers/letters. It is the jackal headed god in Egyptian mythology who is associated with the afterlife. Not sure why Anubis is here unless it is because he embalmed the dead body of Osiris which would make him the older sibling of Horus (the one giving Mercury the letter). So the story goes- Anubis received Osiris’s organs as a gift.

Thus the re-birthing and rejuvenation suggestion of this card.

Flower- roses, love and hope.

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