Photo by Chase McBride
Welcome to Spring! I was all set to do our usual pick-a-card reading for the month, but when the cards were in front of me, I found that they were meant to be read as a single collective message. I believe this is because we are coming out of the season for self-reflection, and now we are being called to get outside and get things done together!
In this reading, there is an emphasis on practical ways to get out of our comfort zones and make the effort needed to build community. The cards that came forward are the Five of Pentacles, the Queen of Pentacles, and the Lovers. Our theme card — the card that sets the tone for the reading — is the Devil. (Don’t worry; if you are new to tarot, this is not a scary card!) This combination highlights our need to address unhealthy habits as a collective — helping ourselves by helping others. This is not so much a time to think; it is a time to do.
The Devil
Often misunderstood, this is not an evil or scary card. This Devil card represents a trap that you did not place yourself in, but are now too comfortable in to find a way out of; you are keeping yourself in a place you did not choose. The card often indicates being stuck within toxic cycles, learned helplessness, unhealthy power dynamics, and illusions. The most effective part of this trap is the illusion that convinces us there is no way to escape — nothing we can do. It is, of course, never simple or easy to escape these traps; but understanding that we have more power than we think can help us see past the surface, and map a way out.
The Five of Pentacles & The Queen of Pentacles
This is an interesting pair, when considering their place within the reading’s theme of liberation and breaking out of unhealthy cycles.
The Five of Pentacles represents financial strain, and being left to fend for yourself. In contrast, the Queen of Pentacles represents comfortability, ample resources, and sustainable systems. The suit of Pentacles as a whole addresses resources — money, time, material goods, tangible skills, practical know-how, etc. This pairing reminds us to reflect on where we are in need, and where we are abundant. Maybe you have financial limitations but you are rich in ideas and practical skills. Maybe you are blessed financially but lack the necessary experiences and knowledge for the situation at hand. When you know where your wealth lies, you can connect with others in your community.
The Lovers
This card speaks to the balance of energy that you are giving and receiving. Where you are lacking, ask for help. Where you have extra, find ways to support others. If we want positive growth and change, we must contribute to the systems our communities have built to replace those that are failing us, and that does not happen on an individual basis. Look to mutual aid, local programs, and even your neighbors for inspiration.
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This reading reveals to us that there is a way to bypass our limitations and the larger systems that bind us, but we cannot do it alone. We need organization and connection to untangle the societal knots that keep us busy, and focused on all the wrong things. It is time to stop working together in theory, and to actually start working together practically! This can be through direct efforts, like volunteering with a mutual aid group, or something as small as finally attending that book club you’ve been meaning to go to. You never know where your help is needed, or where your people are. So get out there and find them!
Jae Melland is a tarot, rune, and palm reader. You can visit seidrwhispers.com to schedule a reading or see her at her shop, Luna Apothecary, on Clearwater in Kennewick.
