Six Card Yes/No Spread

Yes/No spreads can be fun, and are always interesting to do. I found this one by chance on YouTube :)

Tarot:Where To Begin (Part Three)

There are a lot of rules and guidelines to observe when reading Tarot cards. A lot of it is confusing, or contradictory. To highlight this, here are two articles posted by Mary K Greer. They both compile knowledge and tips from a long list of Tarot enthusiasts, presented in bullet-point style. As Ms. Greer mentions, the advice here is presented in such a way as to encourage respect for all points of view, however different. If you're new to the cards, these are an absolute MUST read - and if you are experienced, they are still a great read:

What Every Newbie Tarot Reader Should Know

What Every Newbie Tarot Should Know About The History and Myths of Tarot

Adorable Tarot Decks!

I've come across a few of what I can only describe as novelty decks over the years. I have to say that while a lot of people dismiss such decks, I think it's nice that even Tarot can be playful once in a while. Certainly, they deserve to be shared here - if only for the 'Awwww!' factor. And if you're going to recieve bad news, why not soften the blow?

Note: Click on the titles to find out more. Links are to sources outside of Blogger.

Gummy Bear Tarot by Dietmar Bittrich

Yes, you read that right. Gummy Bears. The Gummy Bears in this deck, while cute, look adorably serious. There are wise bears, enlightened bears, and even bears in peril! (see below) The cards were originally printed in German, then re-released in English. They may not be useful if you want a more sombre reading - I for one can't take the Kight of Swords seriously when he looks so much like Winnie the Pooh - but I'm glad they exist, all the same.

Hello Kitty Tarot by Joe Rosales

The ubiquitous cat of the Hello Kitty franchise with her own Tarot deck? This one detail will tell you everything you need to know about Hello Kitty Tarot: they are a black and white deck you can colour YOURSELF. It is either the pinnacle of sacrilege, or the most adorable thing ever! It isn't an easy deck to acquire, but you have to admire the artist's attention to detail in keeping with the Rider-Waite imagery.

8-Bit Tarot by Indigo Kelleigh

Truly, this is the king of all cartoon decks. When I think of the work that must have gone into creating the 8-bit Tarot, I am in awe of it's creator, Indigo Kelleigh. This is a reworking of the traditional Rider-Waite deck, but in the style of retro computer graphics. The end result is a well-researched and striking piece of work.

Ferret Tarot by Elaine Moertl

The message of this deck appears to be simple : Ferrets have problems too! Focusing on the lives of these little furry creatures, the Ferret Tarot is a fun black and white (and quite useable!) deck. Like the Hello Kitty Tarot, this deck is unlaminated for limitless colouring in potential.

Sample Spread: The Eight Chambers Spread

This is a spread I call the Eight Chambers Spread. It deals with the past, present and future condition of eight different ares of the Querent's life:

1- Physical: The health and well being of the Querent.
2- Mental: The concerns, ideas and stability of the Querent.
3- Spiritual: Sources of faith and belief.
4- Material: Wealth, success, goals of the Querent.
5- Emotional: Sources of love and joy.
6- Social: The Querent's interactions, friends and family
7-Perilous: Obstacles, worries and challenges for the Querent.
8-Overall: A look at the general circumstances surrounding the Querent.

DIY Tarot

   If you want to really understand the essence of a card, and be sure that you will know its interpretation by heart, there is a way to give yourself a break from making lists, and endless hours of readings. Though these are essential, sometimes it pays to use your imagination. As mentioned here, you can utilise meditation and visualisation techniques, but if you feel like you want more of a hands on project, the best thing you can do is make your own!

   The process of designing your own cards will assist you in understanding them, each redesigned card challenging you to consider its deeper meaning. Don't be put off if you can't draw. neither can I! (as you can see below :P)

   Artistic talent or qualification need not be a factor when creating your own card or deck. There are other options, such as collage, and computer graphics. The whole point of this exercise is to develop a connection to the cards.

   It certainly worked for me. While it may seem corny or simplistic, redrawing strength as someone saving a life against their better nature helped me to really get to grips with its basic meaning. Likewise Justice - it was a challenge to try and convey both justice and injustice in a single card.

                             Try this next time you are 'stuck' on a card: consider how you would depict its meaning in a picture. Think of how you would explain 'The Tower' if you couldn't use words.

Good Times!

The Midnight Meadow is back online and raring to go!! Watch this space :)

TECHNICAL HITCH!!

The Midnight Meadow is currently experiencing technical difficulties to the nth degree - our posts keep disappearing, and followed blogs have vanished into thin air, among other things. Feel free to browse what we already have here - when Beth's finished sulking under the table, we're sure she'll figure something out! :D

Numerology Pt. 2: What Does It All Mean? - The Birth Number

Click here to read Part One!

Last time, we learned about how to calculate birth, name, vowel and consonant numbers. So now let's take a closer look at each number, and the significances ascribed to them. We will begin with the birth number.

Significance

The birth number is also referred to as the destiny number, and is said to determine a person's basic character and general self. It is worth remembering that numbers prominent in the birthdate itself (e.g 6/6/62) are also important, and should be taken into consideration when compiling a profile. It is also said to be the person's lucky number, and to rule the most fortunate periods of that person's life. And here, as a very brief overview, is a beginners guide to the birth numbers:

One

Traditionally, those with a birth number of one - and those for whom the number one is significant in their birthdate - are daring, confident, enthusiastic people. They are said to bear all of the qualities typically associated with the Sun: power, determination, but also aggression. They do not back down from a challenge, and are natural leaders. They are great at inspiring those around them, and work hard to get what they want - though they may have a tendency toward extravagance. They are best suited to teaching, politics, government work and PR, and are well suited to a life of celebrity. It would also be unsurprising to find Ones in military service. They love being the center of attention, but can tend toward moodiness and occasional bouts of infantile behaviour.

Two

The number two is closely associated with the Moon, and as you'd expect, people with a birth number of two are said to be sensitive, and intuitive. Sleep does not come easy for the Twos of the world, as their anxieties often get the best of them. They lack confidence, and rarely feel in control of their lives. However, they are no pushover, and possess a gentleness and a quiet persistence that few others can match. They tend to be quite selfless, and may enjoy helping others over helping themselves. Twos make very good mediators and diplomats, and are often found working for charities and hospitals. They have vivid imaginations, and are attracted to the arts.

Three

Fun loving and exuberant, you know where you are with a three. People with a 3 birth number, or the number 3 prevalent in their birthdate, are kind, generous, outgoing and strongly moral. They bore easily, loving to move around from place to place, and will never flourish in a stable, steady job. Natural optimists, you will often find Threes tending to animals, and unionising the workforce! They are sociable, and love their food and drink. There is also a tendency toward frankness: never ask a 3 what they think unless you want the raw truth. This is not malicious - they are just naturally honest, and can even be pushy when they have to be.

Four

Fours are the reliable, slightly serious type. They have a good sense of humour, but rarely lose their composure - this can mask quite a dark, frustrated inner self, which you will soon see, should you push a Four too far. They tend to keep worries to themselves, and are honest, respectful people - although it can be rather difficult to get to know one. Their determination is a good quality, but also a flaw, as they do not always know when to give up. Fours are attracted to many different lines of work, but whatever they choose, they strive for perfection, and it is important to them to be the very best at what they do.

Five

Those with a birth number of five are said to be quick witted, intellectual, and natural conversationists. They are positively Mercurial in temperament, and enjoy any career that involves perception and self expression:law, writing, PR, advertising and journalism are quite common. Fives are very persuasive, even charming, but tire of things very quickly. Though generally cheerful, their tempers are quick, and they tend toward impatience. They love puzzles and logical challenges, and have a deep love of reading and learning.

Six

Sixes are said to choose their company quite carefully, as they cannot abide loud, rude and obnoxious people. They are happiest at home, and may enjoy artistic and musical pursuits. Sixes are said not to have many close friendships. Romance and domesticity are important to sixes, as is physical appearance - you will rarely see one ungroomed. They have an intense dislike of getting their hands dirty, and loathe manual labour. In fact, a Six is most suited to a well paid job with minimal responsibilities, for while they have a love of the material, they may not have the strongest work ethic.

Seven

Sevens are said to be dreamers and romantics. Others do not fully understand them, so they tend to prefer their own company, and their own ideas. They are very creative, but tend to lack specific direction, and may have many projects on the go at any one time. Sevens tend to have a natural gift for psychic work, and a caring disposition. They are gentle, friendly and caring, and make excellent, loyal friends.  They tend not to think or dress like other people, but have a deep sense of compasion toward their fellow man.

Eight

Those with a birth number of eight are traditionally believed to be introspective, and may have difficulty getting along with others. They have strong principles, but can be a little lacking in the humour department. Eights tend to mature early, and may even seem older than they really are. They are loners, and get on best with people older than themselves. They are typically the strong and silent type, and often know what their life goals are quite early on. Eights are attracted to long term jobs, as they seek security, and stability in a career tends to be very important to them.

Nine

Finally, those with a birth number of nine are said to be  outgoing, cougageous, and strong. They are hot blooded, and lose their cool very quickly. They very rarely plan ahead, which can be a source of some difficulty in their lives. Nines rarely sit on the fence, and tend to see things in black-and-whte terms.  Although they can be arrogant, and even domineering, they have an innate generosity which endears them quickly to others. Nines jump in with both feet, and their hearts are broken very easily. In fact, they rarely hold back in any situation.

Next: The Id and the Ego

Sample Spread: The 'Head' Spread

This is a spread I came across while learning about the Jungian approach to Tarot, and it is one of my all time favourites. I find it is best to use only every so often - I maybe do one a year. The layout of the cards is based on the Jewish Tree Of Life.

The numbered cards correspond to:

1 - (Querent) The querent's, state of mind                                        )Hopes
2- (Father) The querent's sense of wisdom and practicality            )and
3 - (Mother) The querent's sense of nurturing and compassion       )Fears
4 - (Mercy) Querent's good qualitities, what they feel they are able to do       )The
5 - (Judgment) The querent's intellect,what they ARE able to do                    )Querent's
6 - (Beauty) The querent's capacity for giving and selflessness,                     )Available
      what they feel they ought to do                                                                )Choices
7 - (Eternity) Lust and love                                                     )What the
8 - (Splendour) Recreation and relaxation                            )Querent would
9 - (Foundation) Creativity and art, inspiration                      )Like to do
10 -(Kingdom) The physical body, the essence of the querent           

Moving on to the vertical columns, Cards 3, 5 and 8 represent forces both practical and destructive in the querent's life; Cards 1, 6, 9 and 10 show areas of balance and moderation; and Cards 2, 4 and 7 show us areas of creativity, intellectualism, and liberalism.

This is definitely a spread for intermediate to advanced readers, and can offer quite a detailed insight into the querent's situation.

Numerology:An Introduction

   The use of numerology - that is, the attachment of mystical meaning to mathematical trends and patterns - dates back as far as the sixth century BC. The famous mathematician Pythagoras was a believer in numerology, and believed that all things had mathematical relationships - though Pythagoras' work would bear little resemblance at all to the numerology which we use today.

   Numerology, as practised today, is a method of divnation which creates a kind of character profile - much like astrology - based on the significance of numbers derived from a person's name and birthdate. These numbers are determined using a Jewish alphabetical system known as gematria

 

                                    1   2  3  4   5  6   7   8   9
                                    A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I
                                     J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q R
                                     S T   U  V  W  X  Y  Z

Using this system, M=4, X=6, etc. The system is used to derive a 'birth number', 'vowel number', 'consonant number' and 'name number'.

The Birth Number

The birth number is also referred to as your destiny number, and is considered the most important of the four as it indicates your basic character. Your birth number is deduced by adding together the digits in your birthdate until they are reduced to a single digit:

                   16th May, 1988 = 1+6+5+1+9+8+8= 38
                                    3+8=11    1+1=2

This gives you a birth number of two.

Repeated numbers are also significant, i.e if you are born on the 3rd of the 3rd, or in June 1966, the number 3 or 6 would also be of some importance.

The Vowel  And Consonant Numbers

The vowel number is said to repesent the ego - the conscious, public version of you. It relates to your sense of self, and external mindset. It is determined by adding together the vowels in your name using the above method:

                      CLETUS KEGGINS           E=5   U=3    I=9   
                           5   3      5     9          5+3+5+9=22    2+2=4

So in our example, Cletus Keggins has a vowel number of 4.

The consonant number is calculated in the same way only - naturally - by adding the consonants:

              CLETUS KEGGINS   

               33   2  1  2    77  51     

                                        

          3+3+2+1+2+7+7+5+1=31   3+1=4

              

As we can see, his consonant number would also be 4. 

Since the consonant number represents the hidden, subconscious side of you (your id), Cletus' identical numbers would show us a man who is at ease with himself, and sleeps easily. (More on this later)

The Name Number

Finally, to calculate the name number, we add the consonant and vowel number together. This is a number which represents our most changable and superficial selves: what we like to do, our lucky colours, our interests.

Next Time: What It All Means

Don't Fear The Reader: Why You Need Not Be Afraid To Get A Reading

   Last night, a good friend of mine began promoting my site. I'd performed a reading for her, and she was so happy with the results, she wanted to tell her friends. Which is great - any publicity is good publicity at this early stage, so I was both touched and flattered to see such commitment from her. As you would expect, some of her friends took notice, and contacted me. But what I found really interesting was this: a few of them approached my friend and told her that they were curious about the Tarot, but were afraid to have their cards read. As one of them put it: "She might tell me I'll run into money, and then I'll get hit by a Securicor van!".

   While undoubtedly funny, I also found this disturbing. As someone who has grown up around the occult, I didn't quite understand what they meant. How could somebody be afraid of a pack of cards?

   When I posed this question to my friend, she told me it was, in all likelihood, a fear of bad news. A fear that I would tell them they were about to die, or that their marriage was going to fail. As though my simple utterance of these words would make it so. To an extent, I understand this. Look at the Death card, or the Ten of Swords. Now, if you don't know a lot about Tarot - aren't they those creepy cards that tell you your future? - then you may, understandably, be a little freaked out when they turn up in a reading. But, as mentioned elsewhere on this blog, Death is only Rebirth in disguise. And the Ten of Swords? There is an argument for this card being the most positive of all. For with it, things are at their worst, and can only get better.

  
   But the Tarot interpretations aren't really the point, in this context. The point is, it doesn't matter what comes up. The cards provide guidance only. They provide insight, and give the Querent a chance to look objectively at what is often an emotional set of events. They do not make things happen - they only show you what is likely, should current trends be allowed to continue. This, for me, is the true beauty of the cards. They are a friendly heads-up,in a world of uncertainty. Cross my palm with silver, and I will not tell you that you will die before the moon has risen three times - but I may tell you that self-destructive or excessive behaviour are to be avoided while on your current path. The cards won't tell you that your husband will leave you, and then make that happen. And let's be honest, if they had that kind of power, it would be wise not to use them.

   In short: there is nothing to fear in the world of Tarot. The cards only show you the exits. Which one you choose is up to you. 

Tarot: Where To Begin (Part Two)

Click here to read Part One!

  
   Alright, so in Part One we obtained a deck. So what now? And what on Earth is an Arcana?

   At this point, all you need to know are the very basics: that the Tarot is (usually) a 78 card deck, and that that deck comes in two parts: the Major Arcana, and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana comprises of 22 cards - these are the ones with names like 'The Wheel Of Fortune' and 'The Lovers'. The Minor Arcana is made up of the remaining 56 cards, and is made up of numbered and face cards in four different suits - much like a pack of regular playing cards. As we will later discover, this is no coincidence.

   The next decision you have to make is whether to learn some of the meanings before you start to use the cards, or learn the interpretations as you go, looking up cards as they turn up in layouts or 'spreads'.

   When I was thirteen years old, I was given my first deck as a birthday present by a friend of the family. I had never physically seen a deck until she began reading for me, and I was fascinated - and a little scared. Looking through the cards for the first time, something about the images on them disturbed and compelled me. I believe now that this had to do with the way the symbolism of Tarot speaks directly to the subconscious mind. The images, symbols and icons used to create many Tarot decks have been in use for centuries, and for many people a first look at them provokes this same giddy combination of curiosity and alarm.

   I had to know what they meant.

   I would recommend a little of both the above methods - by all means, interpret the cards as you go, but also try to learn as much as you can in between readings. There are hundreds, if not thousands of books on the Tarot out there. But after reading one or two, you will begin to notice something: the interpretations vary from person to person, sometimes subtly, sometimes by miles. It is easy to be put off by this. How, you may ask, can I be expected to find the right answer when nobody entirely agrees on what the right answer really is?

   Whether or not a Reader should attach personal meaning to the cards - and to what extent - is one of the most active debates in the Tarot community. I certainly wouldn't advise ignoring the interpretations of others and simply making up your own. Instead, I would recommend a method I first discovered in what is still probably my favourite book on the Tarot: 'Tarotmania' by Jan Woudhuysen (more on this interesting book a few posts later ). It was the first time I heard such a theory, though I expect not the first time it has been suggested - and being new in such an overwhelming mine of information, it was a revelation.

   The author's suggested method for learning the often complicated card meanings was this: draw up a chart, listing the names of each card in the Major Arcana. Collect as many books on Tarot meanings as you can, and as you read each interpretation of a card, jot down similar themes and keywords used to describe it. For example: one book may describe 'The Emperor' as 'tyranny', while another may describe him as 'a strong, protective force'. Truthfully, neither are wrong. The word you jot down is 'authority'. I picture each interpretation as a slider, like the volume control on an old stereo - turned all the way up, The High Priestess may mean insanity; turned all the way down, wisdom and intuition; but label on this slider would read 'insight', at either extreme. When people speak of reversed meanings, this is what they are talking about: the duality inherent in every card. There is no Injustice card because the Justice card incorporates the concept completely.

   Other suggested methods involve meditation, and visualisation. One of my favourites (and I wish I could remember where I read it, because credit is most definitely due for the idea) involved taking a card from the Tarot deck, and simply gazing into it. The object of the exercise was to visualise the borders around the picture fading away, until you are in effect 'stepping into the picture' in your minds eye - perhaps standing on that cliff next to The Fool and feeling the grass beneath your feet, or feeling your stomach knot as you peer over the edge. Whether or not you believe in such visualisation techniques as a means to further understand the Tarot, it is certainly an enjoyable and calming exercise - if nothing else, you'll be nice and relaxed!

   But whatever method you prefer, if you put the time in and really want to learn, you will know the basic difference between The High Priestess and The Hierophant in no time.

Next: Laying Out The Cards

Tarot: Where To Begin (Part One)

   Tarot is everywhere these days. We've all seen the imagery, from adverts to funfairs, signs of the cultural effect of cartomancy are all around us. A lot of people - perhaps most people - know that they are a deck of cards that people use to predict events and trends in their lives. But if this is all you really know, approaching the Tarot can be daunting. A common misconception is that the Tarot possess some elite, arcane knowledge which can only be harnessed by the exceptional few. In truth, all you need is an open mind, and a keen interest. The rest you can learn : though not all of it can be taught.

   The first place to start is, obviously, the selection of a deck. There are no wrong choices: some people will select the more familiar packs such as the classic Rider-Waite or Marseilles decks; others, the more obscure, arty decks (Phantasmagoric, Analytical); some readers are drawn to the soothing fantasy imagery of the Dragon Tarot;while still others prefer the bleak, macabre stylings of HR Giger or Savage Tarot. There are so many types: Angel Oracle, Lenormand....the list is dizzying. By all accounts, there are thousands of decks out there.

   The truth is, you don't need to know your Book of Thoth from your Oracle Dessuart to get started. It's quite simple. Pick one you like, and you can't go wrong. After all, you're going to spend a lot of time with these cards. Get a feel for the different decks out there, and pick one you like. There are plenty of sites out there to help you make a more informed choice (I personally am an Aeclectic Tarot kind of girl, but they are by no means the only site).

   Don't worry too much about your approach at this point. Some approach the Tarot because of a belief in psychic ability, paganism, spirituality or psychology - others get into Tarot readings and then discover what their beliefs really are.

   How you look after your deck is down to individual taste. Some people consecrate them by moving the deck through incense smoke or anointing it with oil. You can make or purchase a pouch to keep them safe, keep them in a special container...You probably have your own ritual when it comes to starting something new - do whatever feels right for you. And if you want to simply take them out, use them, and keep them in a box in the drawer, that's your business entirely. There really is no perfect practise. It all come down to what you are comfortable with.

Next: Learning The Basics

Click here to read Part Two!

The Importance Of Being Honest?: Part Two - Bad News

   Picture the situation, if you will: you have a friend, a close friend. Let's call her Judy. Judy has broken up with her boyfriend of three years, she has just lost her job, and she's beside herself. Not only is poor Judy heartbroken, she doesn't know where the rent is coming from. A lot of us have been there. Judy is scared, and lost. She really needs guidance.

   Judy asks you for a reading. Now this is already awkward - in fact, I think you'd be well within your rights to refuse, as much as you may want to help. Before you even accept such a challenge, you need to make sure you know why she's asking. Is she merely asking for some insight, or looking to a friend to tell her everything will be alright? The temptation to do exactly that - to comfort someone with a few white lies - is understandable...but to do so would be the very definition of 'unethical'.

   But what if the cards come out 'bad'? Now, I don't think any individual card is totally good or bad, but the right combination of cards in the right context can certainly bring a warning of bad news. You deal the cards, only to find the message is clear: Judy has, to a degree, made her own bad luck. The Tower card springs to mind, which can signify (among other things) that the querent is in a hell of their own making. You know this is the last thing Judy wants to hear, so what do you do?

   The important thing to remember is that there is nothing big or clever about scaring a querent with a reading. It is never acceptable to beat someone down like this when they are vulnerable. Instead of saying "This is all your own fault", which is not only cruel but probably not the entire truth, try "You have the power to turn this situation around". Focus on the positive. As my father would say: "Don't tell me your problems, tell me your solutions". The focus of the reading should always be how the querent can take control and improve their situation, not where they went wrong. A lot of people will really take what you say to heart - do not underestimate the responsibility you take on when someone asks for a reading. And if the querent leaves you with a smile on their face - that's when you know you've done a good job.

Sample Tarot Spread: The 'Spirit' Layout

   Okay, just a quickie this evening:

I love this spread, and have been using it for quite some time. It's a good one to use when you're not quite sure how you feel about things. Spirit in this case stands for:

State Of Mind - Your general mood

Purpose - Your motivation,what drives you

Intuition - What your gut is telling you, things you sense

Reason - What your head is telling you

Imagination - Your wishes and dreams

Trials - Challenges presented by the situation

Card Spotlight:Death

Deck: Tarot

   This is, quite famously, the card many people dread. It has been used as a dramatic device in many a poorly researched film - but what does it mean?

   Well, here's what it doesn't mean. If this card comes up in a reading then no, your death is not imminent. The Death card is not used to foretell actual death, but rather the end of a situation, and beginning of something new. Perhaps Rebirth would be more fitting title. Whenever you see this card, ask yourself: what are the elements at work in your life that are detrimental to your situation? What are you holding onto, long after you should have let go? The card heralds the end of a cycle. It signifies change, closure, and the breaking of bad habits. In this sense it is quite a positive card, aand promises that your problem will come to an end.

   As with all cards, there is an interesting duality to the card, for it can also serve as a final warning that if you do not rid yourself of that which is bad for you, you can expect to have it removed forcefully. It then becomes the card of hostile takeovers, bad relationships, and addiction, or an obsession. It could apply to the money you've been 'meaning' to pay back, or the weight you've been 'meaning' to lose. In these types of situations, Death's message is clear: make a change, or prepare for the worst kind of wake up call.

Pictures: My interpretation, Rider-Waite

interpretation, Hello Kitty interpretation!





Related Articles: Card Spotlight

Featured Pack: The HR Giger Tarot

   I'll admit, this pack is NOT for everyone. The Swiss Surrealist painter HR Giger - perhaps more widely known as the artist behind the terrifying creatures in the Alien film series - certainly has a unique style, utilising both the biological and the mechanical to create nightmarish visions on canvas. Being quite the fan, I never thought I could own a copy of this rare, out-of-print and accordingly higher priced deck.

  
   Let's just say I had a good birthday this year.

  

   Initially, it seemed little more than a coffee table piece, a collectors' item. I was thrilled to have it, and it was simply stunning to look at, if you like that sort of thing (and I do). But it was difficult to form an opinion on the deck, not as a fan but as a regular practitioner. Their aesthetic value was instantly recognisable, but what about their use as a functioning Tarot deck?

  

  The accompanying book is by far the most valuable element to the set. The cards themselves are nothing new, being simple excerpts from the artist's previous works. What is really interesting about this set is the point of view presented, not just of the card meanings but of the Tarot itself. The book comes with a warning, and rightly so. These cards are not intended for daily use. Instead, they are presented as a tool to unlock the deeper, darker aspects of the human psyche. Also of note is the division of card interpretations according to gender. The cards in this deck have two similar but distinct meanings, depending on whether the querent is male or female.

   All in all, I was pleasantly surprised by the HR Giger Tarot. If you are a fan, and if you are not easily offended, you can find out more about the deck here. But bear this in mind when using the Giger deck - don't ask unless you REALLY want to know, because there is no guarantee that you will like the answer you recieve.

Midnight Meadow Score:

Style: 9/10

Substance: 9/10 (if only for the originality of perspective)

The Importance Of Being Honest? (Part One)

   Ah, disclaimers. All Tarot sites have them, and you should be wary of those who don't. "100% accuracy" is likely to be lawyer-speak for "universally vague". "Instant reply" is another way of saying "pre-written reading". Any site worth your time and money should state that nobody is perfectly accurate all of the time. The trouble is, a lot of these disclaimers can appear suspect, a way of the reader covering his or her butt when things don't go to plan. To an extent, perhaps it is.

  
   The main two run thus:

   1: Cannot guarantee one hundred per cent accurate

   Well, of course. On the one hand, if you're paying someone money for a service, you expect them to do the best job they can. And if a reader really is consistently godawful, they shouldn't get a penny. But it isn't an exact science. In a world where there is always a (thankfully slim) chance your surgeon will leave his watch inside you, to expect every Tarot reading you have to be perfectly accurate is just ludicrous.

   You have to find the balance between being too vague, and being too specific. If ever you want to see an example of this, check your daily horoscope, and wonder just how chillingly accurate such a sweeping statement can be. Since everyone in the world has money and relationship issues every damn day, to point this out, however eloquently, is NOT divination. Of course, the catch-22 is unless you're omnipotent, your details will trip you just as easily. Which is why most Tarot sites will tell you their readers deal with upcoming themes in your life, and simply cannot tell you the exact day you will win the lottery. For every reader over-claiming, there are so many querents over-expecting.

   2: Readings are for entertainment purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of trained professionals

   They'd better be, because you're playing with fire when you tell a man to leave his wife, or a girl to give everything she has to be with her boyfriend. It may seem far fetched, but there are people out there who are lost. Often when a person requests a reading, they are in a delicate and sometimes desperate situation. It can be very easy to believe in someone who promises you all the answers. A professional reader should NEVER offer medical advice - with the exception of suggesting someone seek professional help if required - and should present you with choices, NOT dictate to you. Because no amount of divination is as effective as taking an active role in your own life. And from the reader's point of view, to be asked to take responsibility for someone else's life like that is horrifying.

   A lot of these rules, though they may seem like cop-outs on first glance, are there to protect both parties.

Next time: Part Two - Bad News