Dear Maribeth,

I am an aspiring filmmaker working on a project about the subject of the afterlife - is this a path that will lead to success?

>3

Dear >3,

You got the Ace of Pentacles, the King of Swords, and the Nine of Swords. There are many ways to look at this combination of cards depending on the ‘lens’ we want to see it through. In general though, this looks like a heavy project you are working on and the outcome found in the last card appears depressing.

The Ace of Pentacles is about financing your project. You need the money to be handed to you, as shown by the card. Out of nowhere it seems to come, bringing great promises of opportunities for success. The path leading to the arbor with the lilies and roses all look very positive, but it is hard to see what happens between the green hedges and the sharp mountains in the background. Let’s check with the next card for some insight. Your path is not clear.

When I laid out the King of Swords card, I heard in my head “Cut!”. This implies that this card represents the director of the film, there with his big sword ready to cut. This worries me, (although I don’t feel as worried as the person in the nine of swords looks). I get the feeling the people paying for the making of the film want you to produce it in a way different than how you see it. But it doesn’t look like they give you this information until later in the process when they start cutting stuff out that you wanted in. Will you be the director, or someone else?

The Nine of Swords makes it look like you are under a great deal of pressure and not happy about it. I feel like the pressure is not only from the process of creating a film, but the film content itself. I suggest you lighten up all around in order to get to that success you crave. In other words, when you are describing the afterlife make it fun and appealing so people who have lost loved ones can find a path to healing from it. People who have passed on usually prefer to be remembered with a smile, so use humor to make it appealing to the masses. Imagine what John Candy is doing right now up there in heaven… driving an ice cream truck perhaps? The more people can relate to your subject, the more they will understand.

With two cards out of the three from the swords suit, we know this is going to be a difficult project because swords represent tough times in general. The subject matter of your film will remind people of those they have lost and often that comes with a heavy heart. Your intent is to make it real for them, as symbolized by the Ace of Pentacles. Keep true to your vision and be aware of the reactions you are stirring in others. The impression you leave upon your audience through the film will greatly be impacted by the outcome you keep in mind at all times. Be clear about the messages you are trying to get across and follow it through. This clarity will insure your success.

Having the final say in what stays in and comes out of your film is the hard part about this project. Be sure to enjoy the process and learn a lot, I get the feeling this is the first of many exciting film projects for you. Good luck, I can’t wait to see it!

Dear Maribeth,

I think most of us at one time or another have accidentally walked in on our parents doing something we shouldn’t see. My experience involves my father running naked on a treadmill.
Use your imagination - even the dog is traumatized.
How can I remove this vision from my head?

Signed,

Just Can’t Seem to Get Past It

P.S. He’s no spring chicken

Dear JCSTGPI,

Oh my! Have I mentioned the importance of professional counseling when the circumstances warrant it? Let’s see what advice we can get from the tarot on this uncomfortable situation.

Your cards are the Four of Pentacles, the Three of Pentacles and the Queen of Pentacles. While pentacles rhyme with testicles, we won’t go there. Part of your healing process involves letting go of this troubling vision. All pentacles in your reading indicate a very real, very down to earth situation: a visual reality check that you probably did not need.

The Four of Pentacles shows a man covering himself up as much as possible and trying to protect his valuables. Your Dad definitely did not intend for you to see him that way. He would probably opt to remove that memory from both of your minds if he could. Have you ever thought about the trauma he felt having that experience? Holding on to the memory can’t help either one of you in any way I can imagine. Keep in mind he is a good Dad with nothing but good intentions and expectations for you to think the best of him. No one is perfect, and so, people make mistakes. When you think about it, running naked on a treadmill actually sounds hazardous.

The Three of Pentacles makes me think the treadmill wasn’t as attractive to your father after The Incident. It looks like he is considering other plans as ways to accomplish his goals. All of the figures in all three of your cards are covered from head to toe in layered clothing. He may have become much more self conscious of his body and recognized the need for modesty, even at home. He obviously wasn’t expecting you, but I’m sure he takes responsibility for what happened.

The Queen of Pentacles is you looking down at the situation from a new perspective. If you can realize that you were in a safe environment even though a startling thing happened, you can start to let go of your fear of witnessing any such behavior in the future. This leaves you with a funny story to tell, but no traumatic long-term effects. Forgive him for his indiscretion and tell him to leave a signal on the door if you shouldn’t enter, for any reason. Privacy and respect will reign. And hopefully, the horrifying vision will fade.

Dear Maribeth,

I’m in need of some direction. Perhaps you can do a reading that will give me some clarity. My efforts in my new business, which initially seemed to flow, are now being sidetracked at every turn (at least it feels that way). I feel so out of whack! What is the cause of my current financial setback? What changes do I need to make to put me back on track with the flow of abundance?

I have to wonder if the Universe is attempting to send me in a completely different direction since I’m running into so many obstacles in generating income. I feel like a complete failure right now with no means of supporting myself beyond poverty level.

Its it asking too much to desire to have only one job/business support me with ease and comfort, rather than struggling with two or more (sometimes) demeaning jobs?

Thanks for your help,

At My Wit’s End

Dear AMWE,

The first impression I receive from looking at your cards: the Emperor, The Sun and the Ace of Pentacles, is that you thoroughly enjoy and are very good at starting new businesses. While this can be a difficult aspect for some people, for you it is a place where you are comfortable and happy. The issue, according to your question, is keeping them going. Let’s see if we can answer each of your 3 questions with the cards as they came up.

The Emperor has the answer to the cause of your current financial setback. The stone throne indicates you are in a tough and inflexible environment. You are determined to do the right thing, but only have so much wiggle room in which to apply your skills. There is no room for creativity here. You are an entrepreneur and it looks like you are happier in a place where you can make your own rules instead of following someone else’s. In order to be successful in your own business, you need to be able to do it the way you think it will work! You are your own boss for a reason.

The Sun shows much more of a free spirited attitude and answers the question about what changes you could make to put you on track with the flow of abundance. As the child’s outstretched arms imply: Be true to yourself, and be honest with yourself and others. Plant lots of different seeds and let them grow at their own pace, knowing they will pay off in time. Although people may not be responding immediately to your services, the more you put out there, the more you increase your chances of a payoff. While sunflowers have tons of seeds in their pods, only a few get to become flowers. Some feed the birds, which is another worthwhile and rewarding accomplishment for the flower. Try not to focus too much on the almighty dollar and more on making each day a good one.

If your goal is to have one job, then getting an Ace to address this question is a great sign. The Ace of Pentacles is about a new opportunity for money. You may find that you are more likely to find financial success beginning short-term projects rather than sticking to things for the long haul. Follow the pattern that works for you. Perhaps you are best suited to help people accomplish their goals, rather than picking a goal and trying to find people that want to achieve that particular goal. I assure you that you will ultimately find success, and it appears to be related to helping others achieve their financial and personal business goals, one at a time.

Dear Maribeth,

Does your attitude affect the way you age? Are people whose faces are all really wrinkly because they frown all through their life? Is it true what your mother said: that your face sticks like that?

Deborah and Sue

Dear D&S,

The figures in each of your three cards are all smiling and wrinkle-free. You got Justice, the Queen of Cups and the Page of Cups.

Lady Justice holds upright in her right hand a sword that cuts to the truth. She wields her power knowingly. The sword is a double-edged blade, implying that what goes around comes around. Life can cut sharply at times, how we choose to see it is up to us. In her right hand, between her thumb and finger, she holds a scale. There is balance. As long as your face is not scrunched up all the time, and you are able to see the good in things, your smile lines will not stick. If our expressions remained steadfast, we would fail to enjoy the multitude of emotions of life.

The Queen of Cups is surrounded by swirling water. She represents a mature woman, one who has experienced much love in life. She is admiring her ornate cup, holding it outward in a generous gesture. The water nymphs decorating her throne are symbols of spirit. She appears to know her time here on earth is limited and she is focusing on the positive aspects of her life. Her smile and crown are simple, showing a graciousness and peace that provides a youthful outlook. A gentle approach to life can slow down the hands of time and help ensure a graceful entry into old age. The pleasures and most memorable moments of our lives are often found in the simple things.

The Page of Cups symbolizes youth. Both the Page and the Queen are facing Lady Justice. Remembering how things were is a wonderful way to retain that youthful energy of the past. To be young at heart is an important attitude to help keep you feeling young. The way the Page is looking at the fish in the cup portrays the perspective of finding new things to learn and experience as another method of keeping a childlike focus. This will bring about a love of life and a happy demeanor that can defy the number of years you have lived. We all have hard knocks as we experience life, but there can always be a nugget of positive results found in trying times.

To answer your first question by looking at these cards, it appears that finding joy in simple things and taking things slowly are the best attitudes to slow the appearance of the aging process. Unhappy people are usually consumed by stress and it is that stress that causes an imbalance. My advice is to keep it light and you’ll continue to feel and look beautiful!

Dear Maribeth,

I’ve suffered many health challenges since 2000 and am now at a place where I’m looking for something meaningful to do with my life. My boys are growing up (15, 14 & 12) and my husband is busy with his own stuff. I’m wondering if the Universe can help me find an answer.

Thanks.

J.

Dear J.,

It sounds like you are looking to graduate from your old life and begin a whole new chapter. Let’s see what the cards have to say about this. The cards for your reading are the Page of Cups, the Seven of Cups and the King of Wands.

Each suit in the tarot has an element associated with it. Cups correspond with the element of water and wands are associated with fire. As you know, water can put out fire and therefore are hard elements to mix. This tells us your current growth phase could be a tricky adjustment. But, Providence’s WaterFires are a beautiful sight to behold, so it is definitely do-able with the appropriate manipulation.

The Page of Cups is a young person standing on a stage in front of wavy seas. He looks proud of the fish he has in his cup as he is poised with his hand on his hip. His hat is in the shape of a question mark however, showing he is not completely confident. There is still a lot to learn. This card indicates that your time now is for you to work on separating emotionally from your sons. They still need you, but you are looking for your own fish in a cup, something to catch and hold on to for yourself. As you observe your boys becoming men and allow them to make their own decisions, it is helpful to take a youthful approach to your new life. Adopt a childlike perspective and look for those things that bring you joy and pride in your own fishy and unique way.

The Seven of Cups indicates that your options are limitless. After enduring years of health challenges, I’m sure you have a special appreciation for your blessings. If you look closely at the cup that has the wreath above it, you will see a skull. Your interests appear to lay in things obscure, things esoteric and mysterious. Pursue your inquiries into the less obvious. It is a good time for gaining a better understanding about those things now, while you have time to engage in research and still be available to your family. Think carefully about where your dreams might take you.

The final card in this spread is the King of Wands. This card produces a very different vibe than the other two cards. Kings also represent the element of fire, so this card is known as Fire of Fire. Things can easily progress rapidly when this card appears. The King of Wands is a controlled, determined and commanding presence and is ready for action. The salamander (ouroboros) on his throne and cloak represents his own self-development. The way it is eating it’s tail is symbolic of the reconciliation of opposites. It also represents your dedication to higher service. This may feel like where your heart is guiding you. You are ready to do something significant for the world, and help to bring an important issue to the attention of people who need to know.

Take this whole process one step at a time. Learn all you can, research and then use your wand to stir up other people’s interest because they can help. You will accomplish an important piece of history this way. It will take time, but remember, there is no hurry. Good luck!

Dear Maribeth,

I am trying to quit smoking and finding it ridiculously difficult because I hate it and still do it anyway. If I keep smoking, I will either die of one of the harmful effects or look ugly with lines around my lips, yellow teeth and dry skin. Can you offer any guidance to where I can find the strength to overcome this awful habit?

Cough Cough

Dear CC,

Back in the day, smoking was regarded as sexy and glamorous. Due to the number of deaths directly attributable to smoking, it seems to have lost its appeal for a lot of folks while others still puff away. Perhaps your fear of looking prematurely aged due to smoking will help curb your habit. If that doesn’t work, maybe the threat of an incurable disease will. Living to grow old and wrinkly is better than the alternative! Let’s see what guidance we can get for you from the tarot cards.

The cards that appeared to answer your question are The Emperor, the Four of Cups and the Queen of Swords.

The Emperor symbolizes a very strong and determined person, one who is set in their ways. You must realize that this is a habit, a bad habit, and you are strong enough to overcome it once you set your mind to it. Both of his hands are occupied with objects as a smoker is often inclined to have a cigarette in hand. Replacing the cigarette with something else for a while may be a way to help you break the habit. Perhaps you could take up embroidery or another activity that will keep your hands busy. Replacing the cigarette with a lollipop or toothpick has also been known to fill the need while you break the habit of hand to mouth action.

Once you make up your mind to not smoke as The Emperor would do, you will be able to resist the smoking offering being given in the Four of Cups. Just say no to cigarettes, one at a time, as the opportunity presents itself. If you have to cross your arms to resist, do so. It is a choice you make, one day at a time, one cigarette at a time. Your determination will make or break your ability to refuse. Think of this addiction as an opportunity to grow and make the choice to be presiding over a healthy body.

Making the break from this nasty habit will allow you freedom from the addiction. The Queen of Swords has broken the tie to use her hands as she so desires. She has made the cut. The smoke is all behind her, but no longer around her. Considering yourself a former smoker will enable you to achieve new heights. The feeling of not needing to participate in something, especially something you really don’t want to need anyway, is a remarkably liberating feeling. One you deserve to have, and one I foresee you cultivating with pride. You can do it once you make up your mind to be successful. Good luck!

Hi Maribeth,

My name is Alyssa, I am 13 years old and I wanted to ask you a couple of questions. I know you do tarot cards but like me and my friend wanted to ask you a question. I want to know if you see me going to La Salle academy or a private school this September? Like would you be able to give me an anwser for that?
I want to exactly know is: Do you think I will be going to a private school for the 2008-2009 academic year? Some of the schools are La Salle, Bay view, Mount Saint Charles, and St.Rays.
I don’t know if you need any more information to answer it about me but I was born on July 30th 1994 at 9:05 am in Providence RI Woman and Infants and I think that’s all you would need I’m assuming to anwser my question. Thanks.
Sign me,
Unhappy in public school

Dear UiPS,

Thank you for writing Alyssa! I remember being 13 years old, I’m glad it only lasted one year. I hope it is easier for you than it was for me. In any case, it is definitely a point in your life when your direction as an adult begins to take shape. Let’s see what tarot cards come up to answer your question.

Your cards are the King of Swords, the Nine of Wands and the Five of Cups. The picture these cards portray looks like a difficult one. You signed your letter “unhappy” and that appears to be the focal point of your query.

The King of Swords represents authority. It feels like everywhere you go someone is telling you what to do. That is a bummer after awhile and a product of being old enough to know what is right and young enough not to do it. You are trying to find a balance between owning your responsibilities and living the life you choose. This card can represent your teachers, your family and yourself all at the same time. It is in your best interest to communicate what you think is right while finding ways to work with the system and boundaries as they exist. Your teachers and family are doing the same.

The Eight of Wands indicates your unhappiness with the current situation. Everything seems to be getting increasingly difficult. Private school requires proven academic performance. Think about the real reasons you are unhappy in public school and whether you think they will also be issues in a private school. The figures in the two cards on the right of your spread are facing back toward the King. This makes me wonder if the things you don’t like about it aren’t also issues you would face at a private school. At this juncture there is a lot of pressure for you to do your best, and probably even more so at a school that requires a hefty tuition.

The suit of cups in tarot represent love and happiness. In the Five of Cups, the figure is paying so much attention to the three cups that have spilled that (s)he fails to recognize the two upright cups behind. You can be happy where you are if you just re-focus your attention. You must take full advantage of the opportunities available to you right where you are. This will open up new roads (and bridges) to a life that feels better.

Based on this reading, and the position of those two cups in your future, it does look possible to achieve what you are striving for. It may not happen this year, but keep your chin up you will see that you will indeed get what you need. Keep me posted!

Hi Maribeth,

I have been “dating” this guy online for about two years. I don’t know if he is “the one” but, I feel there is a connection between us (even though, we haven’t met in person, yet). Unfortunately, I don’t know how he feels since he hasn’t really told me and I don’t want to pressure him. Might he be in it for the long haul? Any insight you can provide would be appreciated. Thank you so much.

Lorelai

Dear Lorelai,

Two years is a long time to be communicating with someone online without ever having a face-to-face meeting. Since inquiring minds want to know, the tarot cards are the perfect tool to help provide insight.

Your reading gave us the 6 of Cups, the 4 of Pentacles and the 7 of Cups. Cups are the suit of love and happiness and since they are presented here as bookends on your 3 cards, I see a lot of positive energy floating around this issue.

Within the tarot deck, the 6 of Cups can be considered the “soul mate card”. Now, I’d like to define that a little further because some people believe they only have one soul mate in a lifetime. In the tarot, from my understanding, a soul mate can be anyone who you connect with for a time, long or short, with the purpose of helping your soul to develop. This may or may not be a lover. It can actually be a relative who you must find peace with, or a friend who teaches you a significant lesson. It can also be someone who you have a heart to heart connection with. If your relationship has lasted two years, there is definitely something special to it or it would have fizzled out by now.

The 4 of Pentacles shows someone holding on tight to what he’s got. I am wondering why the relationship has not yet progressed to a point where you have decided to meet. This card indicates that you are holding on to what you have but not actively pursuing anything more. Is there a reason for this? Are you perfectly content with the situation as it stands? When you ask if he’ll be in it for the long haul, do you mean online only? Or do you want the relationship to expand in some way? It cannot expand if you hold on so tightly with your back to a world of opportunities.

The 7 of Cups says it is time for you to go after what you want in life. You have many choices as symbolized by each of the contents of these 7 cups. You will remain in the dark until you reach out for what you desire. Life is not a dress rehearsal my friend! Although now your wishes are but thoughts in your head, you can bring them down to reality by going for it. You won’t know until you take your relationship to the next level by meeting him. These cards show a lot of potential, but ultimately it is up to you. Face your fear, whether you are afraid that it will work out great, or not work out at all, and take steps to bring your future into your now.

Dear Maribeth,

I breastfed my children many years ago. My kids are now 20 and 15 years old. At that time my measurements were 36, 24, 36. This is every woman’s dream, right? Well, now my measurements are 56, 34, 36! My chest is out of control! My question is: will my boobs ever stop growing??

Top Heavy

Dear TH,

That must be putting a horrible strain on your poor back! This issue must be affecting your emotional state of mind and confidence level as well as having physical implications. I hope the tarot can help. The three cards for your reading are the 2 of Wands, The Empress and The Magician. Everybody on these cards has their right arm raised, indicating the power of your will to make choices. Each person in these cards also has something in their hand with which to make those choices.

The 2 of Wands depicts a man overlooking a bountiful countryside. He is holding the world in his hand. Having made the choice to breastfeed was what you knew was right for you at the time, based on the knowledge you had. Notice the mountains in the background. These large mountains are one of nature’s most providing formations. They have springs that flow downward, cascading into beautiful rivers to create lakes and ponds that sustain life. They are life giving, just like your breast milk!

The Empress is the “Mom card”. This card represents you as a nurturer and caregiver who is filled with maternal wisdom. The waterfall to the right of the card represents your open expression of feelings. The golden scepter in her hand tells us you use your power wisely and are in a position of authority. The big pillows represent the comfort you provide for your family and also can represent the cushions they feel when you hug them! Your feminine intuition has always helped you to do the right thing for your children. This is key to your self-confidence. You’d have it no other way.

Finally in this spread, we have the Magician. The infinity symbol over his head reminds me of an under-wire. The Magician is a very uplifting guy. His message is for you to be proud of your accomplishments. I’d bet you would do it all over again for the magic of being a Mom. When you think of it, nature really is amazing to provide Mom’s bodies with the ability to fulfill their baby’s nutritional needs.

The Magician is also is holding a wand in his hand (or is that a scalpel??) reinforcing your power of choice. You are currently living with the results of choices you made in the past. With this symbol all the way to the right of your spread, it is indicated that you still have the ability to change things. Cosmetic surgery was invented for just this type of dilemma. If you are uncomfortable with the current state of your figure, doctors have the technology to change that.

As far as when your breasts will stop growing, when I look at the infinity symbol on the last card in your reading, I’m not so sure they will stop. This could just be something you need to get used to and plan for. Remember, it is important to fight gravity and keep them in their proper cups and off the table! With all three figures holding their power in their hands, do not forget that you still have options to make changes, if you choose to do so.

Dear Maribeth,

Do people’s real feelings come out when they are drunk? I have had a crush on a guy named Jim since last April. Whenever I see him and he is sober he acts all cool like he doesn’t really care about me. But when I see him out at a bar and he is drunk he is all over me and tells me he loves me. Are his real feelings coming out when he is less inhibited and drunk or is he just getting close and personal because he is feeling good?

So Confused

Dear SC,

Think about what happens to you when you are drunk. Some people become mushy and heartfelt while others get cranky and arrogant. It can definitely act as a truth serum. It also makes people lovey-dovey and likely to do things they wouldn’t normally do. Things they may regret the next day. Sometimes people use the “But I was so drunk” excuse so they don’t have to take responsibility for their actions. Let’s look at the cards to see what is up in your case.

Your cards are the King of Cups, the Knight of Wands and the 6 of Cups. The many faces of Jim! I can see why you are confused. He displays different emotions at different times.

The King of Cups is sitting on a stone throne floating in the turbulent sea. Water and the suit of Cups always represent emotions in the tarot. Obviously his feelings have their ups and downs. The stone foundation where his feet are show us his desire to steer clear of those emotions and be tough about things. He doesn’t want to stick his toe in the water because he is afraid to feel his feelings. He doesn’t want to get wet and be victim to his desires. He is trying to maintain control. However if he drinks from that big fat cup in his hand it would be very easy to get tipsy and fall right in over his head. That is apparently what happens when he is out drinking.

Then he gets busy. We see the Knight of Wands running by, all business. This is probably his way of covering his embarrassment at exposing his true feelings. He has his armor on now and won’t let anything penetrate his tough exterior. He just keeps going without stopping to have a conversation or truly express himself. He is really running from himself. The desert landscape is a symbol of his lack of emotion now. He doesn’t want to feel those emotions in the Cups. But they are on both sides; he can’t escape!

This reading ends with the 6 of Cups. A lovely ending because the 6 of Cups is the “soul mate card”. This implies a serious connection that the two of you have with each other. Here Jim has filled his mug with flowers for you, instead of liquor to numb himself. It seems eventually he will be able to share his true heart with you. Be patient and kind. He is a very sensitive soul who must move gently. He is trying to master his feelings by using the power of liquid courage, but he will figure it out. Congratulations! This is true love!