Hello and welcome 2014!
A day or two before new years I realized I was in much need of a haircut. As I chatted with my lovely hair stylist while she sniped, we got onto the topic of new years traditions. She asked if I was planning on eating 12 grapes at midnight. No, I had not planned on it. But that got me thinking. Each culture has rites and traditions they follow to help boost their chances of having a successful, prosperous and healthy year. Here are a few that I found interesting: Eating black eyed peas or other legumes (which resemble coins) for prosperity, wearing red underwear on new years eve for prosperity and luck in the new year (in Spain), bang a loaf of white bread against a brick wall to chase out the bad luck of the former year (in Ireland), and of course, the good ole midnight/new year’s kiss to bring you luck in love in the year to come. The list goes on.
So, as we come to a new year in the realm of tarot, I have my own ritual. I pull one major arcana card (one of the title cards, not one of the suits) to get the tone and energy for the year. I carefully remove all 22 major arcana from the deck and as I sit and think about all that has happened and all that I would like to happen, I mix the cards. When I am ready, I remove one and turn it over. This year’s winner: The High Priestess.
What will be in store for us this year with the High Priestess leading the way? Where do I begin? While she can be mysterious and enigmatic, the High Priestess represents wisdom, serenity, knowledge and understanding. She is the ruler of what is hidden and secret, the essence of behind the scenes. She knows what is really going on. The High Priestess challenges us to go deeper, to look beyond and beneath what is superficial, to find what is hidden and uncommon. She challenges you to live to your fullest potential and then some, she asks you to find the unlimited possibilities that lie within. The High Priestess is deeply intuitive. Her appearance in a reading often indicates the need for listening (to yourself) and trusting your own inner voice. She does have a connection to the subconscious mind, and would advise that you pay attention to your dreams and gut instincts. The High Priestess can also indicate that your life is beginning to change. Things that you had possibly come to rely on as a given may have shifted, things can not be taken for granted.
There are so many symbols in this card, it is hard to choose. Here are a few of the images that pop out for me: Black and White Pillars – signify duality – yin/yang, dark/light, feminine/masculine, passive/aggressive. These pillars are the two main pillars at the Temple of Solomon, the first holy temple in ancient Jerusalem. The black pillar marked B stands for Boaz which is the Hebrew word for negation and symbolizes the feminine aspect (intuition, imagination, creativity, receptivity, passivity, compassion – the subconscious). The white pillar marked J for Jachin which means beginning symbolizes the masculine (physical force, logic, practicality, action, aggression – the conscious). The pillars support the veil. Behind her is a veil/tapestry of pomegranates (which is the Egyptian symbol for prosperity and ambition). Pomegranate seeds cover the veil symbolizing the formation of plans, ideas, dreams, possibilities, and potential. Behind the veil we get a brief peek at a body of calm blue water, a reference to the subconscious mind and universal knowledge. A crescent moon sits at her feet symbolizing growing knowledge and insight. It suggests that by reflecting on your life or situation, the necessary information or answer will filter through. She is cloaked in a gown of pale blue which suggests that her interest is purely spiritual. Over her heart is a cross which represents the four elements (Fire, Water, Air and Earth) or the four directions (North, East, South, and West). The cross also represents balance. She sits still and composed, almost in a constant state of meditation, indicating that this is not a time for action but a time for reflection and inner thought. I could go on, but I think it is clear, she is complicated and deep, thoughtful and introspective. Kinda like you!
As we start this new year with so much promise and renewed vigor, here are some questions for you to consider. Am I listening to my inner voice? How can I more clearly understand my life and purpose? What secrets am I keeping? Have I given thought to my action(s)? Where in my life is it best for me to sit still? What is really going on?
When I left my hair salon, I made a quick stop and picked up some grapes (I admit I am a sucker for some good karma). I made 12 thoughtful wishes for the new year and can’t wait to use my intuitive powers to make them a reality. With the High Priestess by my side, I am off to a good start.
The kickoff this holiday season for my new e-reading was a great success. I offer in person, phone, skype and e-readings and am available for gatherings and parties in NYC for more info click here http://www.dinaberrin.com/work-with-me/. Feel free to share with me your stories and experiences regarding your success in 2014. You can reach me at dina@dinaberrin.com
Until the next time . . . .
