For this spread, I chose to use the Celtic Cross layout outlined in the book, which differs from the traditional Celtic Cross in shape only: instead of a cross, the cards are laid out in the following manner:
Card One: Current Position/ State Of The Querent
Wheel Of Fortune
The first card drawn suggests a need to accept oneself regardless of circumstance, to make peace with not only your good qualities but also your flaws. It would seem there is a tendency here to rebel against nature, and to accept far too much blame for your own circumstances. Your current situation requires a serene and delicate approach, and while it can be easy to become overwhelmed by circumstance, your inner peace will be a guiding light to you, if you choose to seek it. Though life may be difficult at times, the strength of your will and the power of your beliefs must not be underestimated.
Card Two: Barriers/ Obstacles/ The Repressed Self
The Sun
This card shows us what stands in the way of the Querent's goals, including the Querent themselves. The Sun in this position represents a powerful longing in the heart, and the fear that perhaps true joy will forever be out of reach. This card reminds us that we must not falter in times of doubt, that we must hold onto our ultimate goal and never lose sight of it. All you wish for can be yours, if you will allow yourself to reach out and take it.
Card Three: Main Goal/ Priority Of The Querent
Death
As the classic card of rebirth and reinvention, as a goal Death may symbolise a need to escape a current situation entirely, to start over in every respect. It suggests that the Querent is holding onto an outdated belief or way of life, that although it can be difficult to do so the time may have come to rid yourself of some destructive influence in your life. While it is often noble to stay and fight, there may be a person in your life who has outstayed their welcome, a habit which needs to be dealt with, or simply an overhaul with regards to the way you look at the world. In short, it may be time to take a different approach. If someone is a dead weight, now is the time to stop carrying them, and move on toward your own happiness.
Card Four: The Root Of The Matter
The Fool
The Fool in this position serves to remind us of our own inner freedom, of our ability to change the way we see the world. It is an indicator that some new phase in life is just beginning, but in order for it to pass there are other influences which must be left behind. So then, it represents something which may be frightening to some extent, as are a lot of new experiences. But it is human nature to be wary of change, and The Fool encourages us to embrace that, to reach outside of our comfort zone and free ourselves to the whim of fate, from time to time. There is no sense worrying over that which cannot be controlled.
Card Five: Recent Past
Judgement
This is a card of reincarnation. You may not have had the easiest life so far, but you have been reborn from the ashes like a phoenix, and are stronger than ever. It may be that you are beginning to realise this, and if not then it is most certainly time to do so. There ids a sense here that in order to realise your future dreams, you must forgive yourself for past mistakes, and move on from them emotionally. You cannot progress until you cast off the weight of self-criticism, as well as the judgement of those who would oppose you. Allow yourself to be reborn, and you will become more powerful than ever.
Card Six: Immediate Future
The Universe
You are in a magical place right now, one in which your own personal energy and that of the universe are completely aligned. What you want is also what fate wishes for you, and you can expect a much easier time ahead, one in which you can achieve whatever you set your mind to. Your hearts desire is well within your reach -be clear about what you want, and the universe shall oblige your request.
Card Seven: Area Of Growth/ Potential
The Lovers
This card brings with it a warning. It suggests that the Querent may have a tendency to hold back in relationships. Whether this is because of past experience remains unclear, but the message here is that unless you give all of yourself to another person you will not find the love you seek. The path of true openness may lead to pain and heartache, but the alternative is a numbness, the empty feeling that comes from unsatisfying romantic encounters. It may be tough to open your heart to others, to allow them to see your true self, but if you seek true companionship which has significance and is founded on mutual care and respect, then this is the path you must take.
Card Eight: Environment/ Situation From The Perspective Of Others
The Star
This is a lovely card to draw, in terms of how others see you. It represents someone who is a dreamer, creative and inspiring. Someone who dreams big, and has the courage to follow it through. There is also an indication of someone who has a mystical aura, an almost magical charisma. Your love of life, your vivid imagination and your innate hopefulness are an inspiration to others.
Card Nine: Hopes And Fears
Strength
As far as hopes and fears go, this card is very direct in its message. It is all about inner fortitude, endurance and resilience. There may be times when you fear that you cannot possibly continue on your current path, when you come close to giving up entirely, Yet your hope, your belief in your own internal will, is what will carry you forward. Your doubts are just that - doubts, but nothing more. The trick here is to determine what is worth fighting for, to differentiate between when you are being firm, and when you are being stubborn. There is a time and a place for each, and knowing the difference may be the key to your current situation.
Card Ten: Culmination
The Chariot
Here we find ourselves at the end of the journey, and The Chariot shows us the lesson that the Querent's current situation is trying to impart. It very neatly reinforces the rest of the reading, with the emphasis on inner will and determination. Once the path to your dreams has been set in motion, nothing short of the hand of destiny itself can derail it. Use you focus, your ability to go after what you want. Keep your eyes on the prize, and do not allow anything or anyone to steer you from your current path. The message of this reading, then, is simple. Nobody knows what you want better than you do, and nobody else has ability to make it happen. With determination, with faith in yourself and your abilities, there is nothing you cannot achieve.
