By Adrienne Abeyta
This month's TarotScopes feature six different decks. Each deck is used twice. See the individual scopes for identification and publisher.
December Forecast
Aries
Moon (7 of Pentacles)
In the midst of indecision we often find ourselves contemplating what we don’t have. It seems that fear is a companion to the unknown, and as we move further into uncharted territories, we feel its unnerving presence. The temptation to check out is ever-present as what you consider to be a valiant effort becomes another drop in the ocean. This is not a period to initiate anything, but rather a time to improve upon what you have. Use this period of indecision to take a break; quiet your mind and trust what you already know.
Images used are from the Legacy of the Divine Tarot by Ciro Marchetti, published by Llewellyn Worldwide.
Taurus
Devil (10 of Cups)
When we love something so much, it’s hard to imagine our life without it. Dependency develops, tricking us into believing that the object is responsible for our happiness. Inevitably happiness fades and objects disappear – then what? Notice when your feelings are contingent upon people or things. If you weren’t afraid to lose the person or thing, would you feel differently? When you worship something it becomes your god; yet, when it fails to fulfill you, it can become your keeper. An emotional situation has more control over you than you are admitting – let go so you can see the situation clearly.
Images used are from the Quantum Tarot by Kay Stopforth and Chris Butler, published by Kunati.
Gemini
Hanged Man (Knight of Swords)
Sometimes when we feel the most stuck, we have more mobility than we realize. You’re naturally curious, but your mind gets impatient, wanting answers now. Be patient – you’ll know more soon. A whirlwind of unexpected events will likely trigger off a state of panic this month, and although you may want to react – don’t! There is nothing to be solved and nothing you can do that will bring about the changes needed right now. Your state of mind has great influence over your situation; remember that your reality is a creation of your mind.
Images used are from the Tarot of the New Vision by Pietro Alligo, with Raul and Gianluca Cestaro, published by Lo Scarabeo.
Cancer
Strength (Ace of Pentacles)
To affect change in the world, we must first make that change in ourselves. It’s easy to profess what’s right and wrong, but not so easy to be an example of these convictions. There are periods in life when you must account for your behavior, and, even more importantly, your contradictions. A frustrating situation is currently offering you this opportunity. Refrain from controlling things and you’ll uncover an area of vulnerability. This area is asking to be developed, so “walk your talk” and be proactive in your efforts to change.
Images used are from the Ator Tarot by Robin Ator, published by Glow in the Dark Pictures, LLC.
Leo
Emperor (7 of Cups)
Given the choice between pursuing work or pleasure, freedom or responsibility, youth or wisdom, most people would opt for what they think they “should” do. Your internal references of authority are self-imposed; unfortunately, they can be overly judgmental and critical. You must work within your value system to find a balance along this spectrum. Keep in mind that these values are subject to change. This month you’ll be faced with a perplexing situation that challenges those notions. Before swinging too far in any one direction, look at this experience as a way to clarify your value system.
Images used are from the Touchstone Tarot by Kat Black, published by Kunati.
Virgo
Magician (9 of Wands)
In all situations, we have choices about how we can act and an array of tools from which to choose. Furthermore, our actions or inactions always produce an effect. In essence, our decisions create our reality. Even when circumstances seem beyond your control, you are responsible for how you interact. The pressure will be intense this month, but so is your motivation to make things happen. Be conscious of which tools you choose. An unexpected opportunity presents itself in the most awkward circumstance. So instead of complaining about problems, keep an eye out for hidden advantages.
Images used are from the Paulina Tarot by Paulina Cassidy, published by U.S. Games Systems, Inc.
Libra
High Priestess (2 of Wands)
With new experiences comes a period of adjustment and with adjustment, patience is required. We don’t usually have a problem forming our desires, but ironically, we do struggle with how our desires form us. Something you have been wanting or pursuing has, in reality, become more than just a thought; yet instead of feeling satisfied, you’re feeling confused and restless. Let go of your expectations and be mindful of your feelings; holding on to an ideal will only stunt further growth. It may be better to limit your goals to something measurable and concrete.
Images used are from the Legacy of the Divine Tarot by Ciro Marchetti, published by Llewellyn Worldwide.
Scorpio
Wheel of Fortune (Queen of Cups)
Life is a constant flow between calm and tumultuous waters, and when we learn how to maneuver through these currents, we discover the importance of each. You’re famous for harboring deep emotions, but not always as good at expressing them. Be prepared for a turn of events as the tide shifts and lands you in another place. You will also encounter the charms of a person who can either help or hurt you. Do not let this fascination take you too far off course. Neither good nor bad, this experience will propel you into the next phase.
Images used are from the Quantum Tarot by Kay Stopforth and Chris Butler, published by Kunati.
Sagittarius
Death (4 of Swords)
Our mind can be a faithful servant when we train it; however, it can also be our worst enemy if we let it go wild. Notice how your thoughts cause a procession of feelings: and as one feeling dominates, your thoughts serve it. It’s time to get your mind in shape and take charge of what you give your attention to. Thoughts are powerful agents of change and when you use them wisely, anything is possible. A current ailment will likely improve if you adjust your thoughts. Symptoms are symbols of deeper realities – where you have pain, there’s room for gain.
Images used are from the Tarot of the New Vision by Pietro Alligo, with Raul and Gianluca Cestaro, published by Lo Scarabeo.
Capricorn
World (3 of Wands)
Success is something that, when attained, inspires growth in other unforeseen areas. It’s as though we need to see the fruits of our labor before adventuring in another direction. The stars are smiling on you this month; the time is right to act on your secret wishes. Believe in yourself and the Universe will conspire to give you what you want. There’s nothing more fulfilling than to live the life you desire. Be courageous and act now!
Images used are from the Ator Tarot by Robin Ator, published by Glow in the Dark Pictures, LLC.
Aquarius
Justice (King of Cups)
When we hold tightly to our opinions, we fail to empathize with others, and unfortunately, we also fail to grow. Knowledge is thought to be attained through the pursuits of the mind, and although you may be educated this way, you are deprived of real learning. Learning occurs through the encounter with another or through the direct experience of what is being taught. A conflict will arise which requires you to make judgments from your heart, not your head. Right or wrong is not the point – saving the relationship is. There is much to be learned in this conflict, so listen!
Images used are from the Touchstone Tarot by Kat Black, published by Kunati.
Pisces
Star (9 of Swords)
When our hope is motivated by fear, it is an illusion; we may wish for something better with no real expectation that it will happen. Imagine how many thoughts you have in a day, then imagine the few you choose to ponder over and over. Take inventory and be honest about the quality of thoughts you are choosing. What seems so bad right now is nothing more than added attention to the negative side of an issue. Turn it around and begin focusing on what you want to create. Where there is hope there must be optimism.
Images used are from the Paulina Tarot by Paulina Cassidy, published by U.S. Games Systems, Inc.