The Hit List - Two things I no longer believe about tarot

When you’ve been reading tarot as long as I have (over 40 years!), it’s easy to become set in your ways. You know what you like and what works for you. Appreciating different methods or ideas can be hard when your system is purring like a finely tuned motor. If you’re also a stubborn type, it’s almost impossible to open your mind once it’s made up.

I’ve been guilty of all of the above.

When it comes to tarot, I’ve always preferred my own way. I’ve taken classes and read all the books, but I’ve always found comfort in sticking to my style. It’s the same with clothing. I wear a “uniform” of T-shirts with jeans or yoga pants. It’s rare to catch me in a dress. I like what I like, and that’s okay. (Psst…dear clothing companies, can you get rid of the high-waisted pants craze?)

However, I’ve opened up to a few wardrobe changes here and there. (Sequins, baby!) And I’ve become less fundamentalist about tarot. In fact, there are a few things I no longer believe about tarot.

Here are two beliefs I’ve released:

You need to read reversals. I started reading reversals from the beginning. Why? The book had reversals, so I assumed you needed to learn them. I didn’t realize some folks never used them until I came on the internet. Suddenly, I met many readers who never used reversals – and their readings were excellent. I still use ‘em, but I don’t knock those who don’t.

The querent needs to shuffle the cards. Back in the day, all of my readings were in person. Querents shuffled my cards (and destroyed more than a few decks). Once I switched to phone readings, no one touched my cards again – and the readings were fine. In fact, they were better because I could concentrate.

I’m sure I’ll change my mind about other tarot things eventually. After all, tarot is not static – there is always room for new ideas and methodologies. So what about you? Have you ever questioned your tarot ‘rules ‘? It’s a journey worth taking.

xo,
Theresa

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