Start Today with Guidance and a Glimpse of Possibilities

The Lovers is the card that seems, on the surface, to epitomize romantic love. Bet when examined more closely: the essence of The Lovers is the concept of choice. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the choosing of a romantic partner, and, ultimately, the decision to follow a path of love. Taking an even closer look: the idea of choice permeates this card. In traditional decks, the figures are depicted as Adam and Eve, with the snake in the tree symbolizing choosing knowledge, perhaps even wisdom, over idealization. Some decks feature a male figure choosing between two female lovers, making the connection even more explicit.

Seven Cups appear in the air before a figure containing fabulous treasure, success, and achievements - and danger. The stance of the person beholding this array of desires, hopes, and fears suggests surprise, wonder, and hesitation about which Cup - if any - to choose.

In the Three of Cups, we see three women captured in the moment of raising their Cups high in the air as they come together. They are surrounded by an abundant harvest and the card radiates joy and celebration: specifically, shared happiness and experience.

In the Six of Cups, we see the image of a figure giving a gift of a Cup, overflowing with life, to a child. The two people pictured are in the garden of a cottage, and the scene resonates with a sense of domestic comfort and security.

Justice is the card of ultimate karma, with her open gaze, set of scales, and a double-edged sword: we receive exactly what we deserve. Make note that, unlike other traditional depictions of Justice, here the figure wears no blindfold. This points to the core elements of the card: truth, honesty, and clear-sightedness. We must fully recognize the past events that have led to our present situation in order to understand and move beyond it. When Justice appears in a reading it should always be given special attention. Look her fully in the eye, and listen carefully to the message she has for you.

Here, we discern a long-held symbol of earthly power: a white-haired man, stern, wearing armor beneath his regal garments, and seated on a stone throne. Note the scepter The Emperor holds, bearing the universal sigil of the male sex, and compare this to The Empress’ totem of femininity, which is carved onto a heart-shaped stone and rests against her dais. His throne bears the images of four rams’ heads, linking The Emperor to the sign Aries, which is ruled by Mars, the God of War. The Emporer is power and strength. The extent to which these can be used for good or ill depends entirely on the personality that directs them.