Category: Guest Authors

By Angela Kaufman, Moonlight Tarot LLC

The dark evenings of October set the tone for reflection and preparation for the winter months to come. This month’s Querent, a young man we will call Jacob, has reason to reflect as it is also the month that will mark his 28th birthday. He is looking to the Tarot this month for general guidance. The birthday is a celebration of the solar return- the passage from youth to maturity, and the development of one’s identity through the lifespan. Jacob’s birthday is of special significance to astrologers as well- for it is the time of his Saturn Return- the date when Saturn returns to its position in the Natal Chart- typically falling in the 28-30th year of life. This is a special milestone in maturity as it is associated with challenges that mark the delineation between youth and adulthood, illusion and truth, carelessness and responsibility. Saturn is also the marker of time and maturity- and Jacob’s timing couldn’t be better!

For Jacob this will be a time of change, truth and challenges. A rewarding but testing journey awaits, and Jacob will be called upon this year to separate the illusions of youth from the wisdom of maturity. This is a time to clean out the closets- both internally and externally- to sort how things are from the fantasy of how we wish they would be. Tests require examining attitudes, and behavior patterns from earlier in youth which are beginning to take their natural toll. Recall that much is forgiven in youth that is not accepted in adulthood- when the puppy chews our best sneakers it is easy to smile and shrug it off, but the same act is harder to tolerate when carried out by a grown dog who can no longer draw on the “cute and innocent” factor to avoid consequences. This is this type of growth spurt Jacob will be facing in the coming year.

The first card is a leaper, emerging from the deck spontaneously during the shuffling process, and it is the Ace of Swords. This will be a dynamic year. A year of new beginnings no longer lingering in the abstract world of thought and fantasy- but culminating in action. Changes will be made, not just talked about. This will be a time for Jacob to jump in with both feet, to overcome procrastination and passive acceptance of what he does not find tolerable in his life. This is the time for Jacob to put his ideas into action, to challenge himself to change, assertively, that which is no longer serving his best potential. Success and accomplishment can be achieved but only by making some changes to Jacob’s routines, to get different results he must take different actions. He will be more likely to summon the courage to follow his heart this year, rather than holding back or giving in to insecurities or doubts. This is a powerful time to effect change- so take hold and accept opportunities as they arise. Like the sword itself, Jacob may find it necessary to make certain “cuts” in his lifestyle this year- cutting out sources of negativity, people or activities that stand in the way of his goals or drain his energy, unhelpful doubts or insecurities, and most importantly, cutting out excess baggage by honestly confronting lessons from the past. Willingness to accept that new beginnings are on the horizon will be crucial to breaking negative cycles and patterns that have become routine.

As if to echo this message, the first official card in the spread is the 10 of Swords. This is the final of the Swords suit before coming to the Court cards- thus it shows finality, closure and endings. Jacob will find that unhelpful and self-sabotaging behaviors will reach their natural conclusion- events will transpire in such a way that Jacob will have to confront bad habits and unfulfilling patterns in relationships and work, and lifestyle at large. At best, Jacob will find relief and an opportunity to take advantage of new opportunities and more mature priorities. Lifestyle changes that promote release of toxic, negative, and self-defeating routines all in preparation for new growth will begin to surface. Exits sought will be found. At worst, even resistance to change will prove futile as circumstances will unfold that make it more difficult to maintain the status quo. The culmination of stress and burdens carried in the past will weigh on Jacob until he is prepared to accept that things must change. Accepting responsibility and going with new opportunities, taking initiative and acting for his own good rather than against it, will prove an easier way to harness the energy of change. Fighting this current will only prove draining. Like a swimmer caught in a riptide, the best thing for Jacob to do at this time is face the music and roll with, not against, the current. In particular, aspects of life that included impulsivity, over-extending himself, excessive work or exercise, or risky behavior, will begin to catch up to Jacob in new ways if these issues are not addressed. Fatigue, burn out, resentment toward others, or even physical health issues or accident prone-ness are possible if things continue as they are. Jacob is entering a phase in his life where habits and choices once perceived as harmless will begin to have an impact. Be it smoking or poor eating habits, overworking or partying too hard, this is a crucial time for Jacob to act on resolutions to break destructive cycles before they catch up to him in ways that they had not previously.

To give greater emphasis to the above message, the Powers that Be have slapped on a big, glaring neon sign- lest we not quite get the picture. They do this through the Tower card. The Tower is considered the archetype of cataclysmic change. Some see only doom and gloom when reflecting on this energy, but that is like looking at school as an annoyance between summer vacations. Jacob can awaken to the energy of this card and ready himself to accept the intervention of powers greater than his conscious planning on his behalf providing just the wake-up call he needs in order to find closure where it is needed and strive for better. Imagine that a comfortable, well-rehearsed routine has become both a source of security as well as monotony and self-limitation. Sound familiar? We all have these experiences, sometimes several times at once or throughout the lifespan. Luckily we also live in a universe where things don’t always go as planned, and we don’t always get our way. When circumstances beyond our conscious control result in large scale disruptions to our cozy plans, it is easy to become upset, angry, disappointed, defeated, or feel abandoned by the Spiritual Force we once thanked when things were going our way. This is the lesson of the Tower card. So, Jacob will have the good fortune of not getting his way, of being disappointed, of realizing aspects of his plans are not sustainable. The fortune of seeing his circumstances as they are- warts and all- so that he may embrace the opportunity to rebuild. Yes, the Universe is about to kick over your sand castle, Jake, but it is because you need to understand that…well…castles made of sand melt in the sea, eventually, as Jimi Hendrix once said. What can Jacob do in light of this? Just be open minded, be cautious, be willing to accept the tides of change, and begin to see that although beautiful or special, a sand castle is not the deluxe dream house it may have passed for at one time. Begin to recognize that the beach is vast, and when one sandcastle collapses it can be a great opportunity to jump back in the water, ride the waves, move on down the shore, visit the boardwalk, make another sandcastle, or fly a kite instead. This is not the time to put all your hopes and dreams into a castle of sand, or in any one thing or object for that matter- begin to explore impermanence, make peace with powerlessness, and don’t count on things or people to provide your foundation, or to define who you are. It is also not productive to curse the wind, waves or seagulls because the sandcastle doesn’t last forever. Instead recognize the bounty that does exist in whatever landscape you find yourself and create something new.

The final card in the reading is another Major Arcana card, Temperance. Like the movement, this card suggests self-discipline, patience, balance and avoidance of excess. Jacob would do well to examine where he has fallen into extremism or risky routines or behaviors. If favorite indulgences are giving way to consequences- take note, this is not the time for extremes in work, play, or partying. This is the time to moderate, modify, collaborate with others- that’s right- be open to receiving as well as giving, and have patience. This is an extremely creative time for Jacob but it will not be a time of instant gratification and instant results.

The security of the ego is about to be challenged, but in this process the potential for creativity, development of crucial networks and supports, and the expression of long held internal talents are emerging. This is a process not to be rushed, so Jacob will have to curb some of his expectations. Have a happy birthday and Saturn’s return bring a new lens to see the potential that awaits.

Remember, no matter where you are reading this all readings are intended for entertainment purposes in accordance with NYS law.

The deck used this month is the Aquarian Tarot published by US Games Inc and created by David Palladini. For more information visit http://www.usgamesinc.com/Aquarian-tarot-deck/

Interested in being the Querent in next month’s column? Contact Angela at Trionfi78@gmail.com.

About Angela Kaufman:
Angela Kaufman has been exploring divination through Tarot cards for over a decade. She is a Certified Professional Tarot Reader and formed Moonlight Tarot in 2009 which would become Moonlight Tarot LLC in 2010. Angela uses the Tarot to assist clients in exploring personal growth and development, and in accordance with New York State Law offers readings for entertainment purposes. Angela began providing readings on a professional, “Moonlighting” basis in order to provide affordable readings to those seeking guidance, inspiration and fun. Angela is also co-author of the new book “Wicca, What’s the Real Deal? Breaking Through the Misconceptions.” And the newly released “Sacred Objects, Sacred Space, Everyday Tools for the Modern Day Witch” (Schiffer Publishing, 2011). In 2006 she joined ISIS Paranormal Investigations and has accompanied the team on numerous investigations in private residences and businesses throughout the capital region, Adirondacks, Vermont and Massachusetts.

For more information on services offered by Moonlight Tarot LLC, visit http://www.moonlighttarotllc.com

By Angela Kaufman, Moonlight Tarot LLC

September harkens the transition from summer to fall and many reflect on the harvest of their labor at this time. This months’ Querent is troubled by the fear that her harvest will be meager this year as a career transition has resulted in earnings that fall short of past expectations. Her dilemma is expressed through her question; “what is my financial outlook and what can I do to make the most of what I have during this time?” An interesting question indeed as Tarot can provide insight into situations and patterns the Querent can be aware of or take advantage of, and yet it must be emphasized that these services are no substitution for financial advisement. Likewise Tarot pinpoints matters of spiritual nature so while there are ways to indicate gains, losses and general advice it should be noted there is no card that will distinguish “Money Market Accounts” from “Stock Market” or “Pay off the Credit Card”….perhaps this would make for an interesting oracle if any of the readership chooses to create a deck solely focused on financial matters….(not a bad idea come to think of it!) For the time being, this month’s Querent who we will call Judy will be guided in terms of what she needs to know to navigate her financial needs on a limited income.

Three cards are drawn as usual- and this reading also yields a Leaper- an additional card whose kamikaze flight from the deck during shuffling indicates the cards are ready to tell their tale. The Leaper for Judy is the Ace of Hearts. A hopeful sign, as this card indicates happiness and brings a feeling of blessing and hope to Judy’s situation. While it is not an indicator of work or money specifically it connotes that Judy’s situation has a happy ending.

The Six of Hearts is the first card of Judy’s reading. It connotes a pleasant and hopeful resolution to Judy’s problem based on the help or assistance of someone from Judy’s past- either a childhood friend or a past resource or outlet that has not been acknowledged or realized yet. Judy should remain receptive to the advice of a trusted friend, someone who will help Judy connect to solutions and resources that have otherwise not been considered. It also suggests financial growth and security with the guidance and assistance of a significant other whose income contributes to financial stability. In terms of protecting current assets it may be prudent at this time for Judy to review all accounts and assets, including some held from childhood or from earlier in life- a key seems to be finding a solution in the past, attaining security through tapping a resource from Judy’s heritage, family or past. The number six may be significant as well- increments of 600 or 6,000 dollars. Judy would do well to blend her plans with those of a significant other or trusted friend- being open to feedback but also maintaining her original plans- this solution seems to be a blend of her objectives with the suggestions from this person from her past. One thing seems indicated in this reading- it does not appear Judy will face a loss. It appears likely her finances will grow and remain protected through her initiative and the guidance of another- it does not seem likely she will face unforeseen catastrophe that would threaten her current savings.

The center card is the Knave of Bells, and this is in fact the only of these three (plus Leaper, making four) cards that directly connotes finances and work. It suggests new opportunities for growth and guidance from a young person who is business or money minded. This does not suggest staggering growth, rather it suggests early groundwork being laid for financial development at a slow and steady pace. Regardless it is not suggesting loss or retraction of savings, while earning potential may have slowed it seems stability and security are not going to be an issue. There does not seem to be need to panic. It is likely that Judy will be assisted by the advice of a person who is in training or early in their career- with sound business perspective and an ability to be flexible, open, creative, but also with a firm grasp of financial matters. It is also likely that a business proposal brought to Judy’s attention can assist her in establishing a new income source, a secondary stream of income in its early development.

The final card in this reading is the Three of Hearts, another card depicting emotional satisfaction. It seems that expansion of Judy’s current financial foundation will likely arise through collaboration with others especially through three channels- three investments, three opportunities to generate income. It also is highly likely that celebrations, friends, and family will assist in generating this income- work in entertainment, family or party events, income gained through family donations or celebratory gifts. These seem to be positive, growth based opportunities, not tragedies such as inheritances or lawsuits. Most importantly the common message through all these cards is that of expansion, success, and happiness, not of loss, hardship or financial turmoil. Through careful consideration and openness to the views of those around her, Judy will be given opportunities to make what she has last as well as to generate new sources of financial growth at a slow and steady rate. She will not likely have to contend with catastrophic losses or continued financial or even emotional downfalls at this time.

Best of luck to Judy in all of her endeavors and remember that regardless of where you are reading this article all readings are for entertainment purposes in accordance with NYS law.

Interested in being the Querent in next month’s column? Contact Angela at Trionfi78@gmail.com.

About Angela Kaufman:
Angela Kaufman has been exploring divination through Tarot cards for over a decade. She is a Certified Professional Tarot Reader and formed Moonlight Tarot in 2009 which would become Moonlight Tarot LLC in 2010. Angela uses the Tarot to assist clients in exploring personal growth and development, and in accordance with New York State Law offers readings for entertainment purposes. Angela began providing readings on a professional, “Moonlighting” basis in order to provide affordable readings to those seeking guidance, inspiration and fun. Angela is also co-author of the new book “Wicca, What’s the Real Deal? Breaking Through the Misconceptions.” And the newly released “Sacred Objects, Sacred Space, Everyday Tools for the Modern Day Witch” (Schiffer Publishing, 2011). In 2006 she joined ISIS Paranormal Investigations and has accompanied the team on numerous investigations in private residences and businesses throughout the capital region, Adirondacks, Vermont and Massachusetts.

This month’s reading was conducted using the Fairy Tarots created by Antonio Lupatelli and by Lo Scarabeo and published in 2000 by Llewellyn. For more information visit http://www.amazon.com/Fairy-Tarot-Antonio-Lupatelli/dp/0738700061.

By Angela Kaufman, Moonlight Tarot LLC

August brings the early signs of harvest and the desire to reap the fruits of one’s labor. This month’s Querent, who we will call Lisa, is a hard working professional in the sales industry. She has recently started a new job and is interested in finding out how she can increase her sales.

The initial impressions in this reading are full of harvest symbolism- the image of an Apple tree full of connotations; wisdom, risk, fruitful endeavors and Magick. Lisa should also be mindful of potential clients or agencies with apple or apple tree as part of their logo or name. A secondary impression early on in the reading is that of a computerized program that expands Lisa’s network as well as access to a greater database of information and clients. It seems that this is somehow linked with an educational program suggesting either distance learning or a certification that enables her to expand her reach and customer base as well as the information of benefit to clients.

The first card drawn is the Three of Pentacles. This suggests expansion in business and career as a result of specialized training experience or certification. It suggests that branching out and gaining the edge in career as a result of specialization. Lisa should be on the lookout for opportunities for growth through furthering her education. It also seems like this will be an opportunity that is granted to a group but a small group or team. Collaboration in this advancement opportunity will expand Lisa’s knowledge and skill base but more importantly will give some type of official certification or credential which will attract potential clients. It seems like Lisa’s professional network will be improved through exposure granted by this educational opportunity. This also suggests a time period of about three months during which time sales will increase and client base will expand.

The next card is the Three of Rods. As this is another three it strengthens the emphasis on expansion and broadening Lisa’s horizons especially through small group efforts that take shape within the next three months. This time the emphasis is not only on accomplishments through training and recognition of abilities and skills but on networking and communication. Small focus groups and team efforts that involve writing, research and advertising will help advance sales and customer base. It also feels like some type of database or shared network is involved. Lisa should be alert to opportunities to take part in collaborative group endeavors, focus groups and networking opportunities involving both social networking but also access to information stored in a more advanced database. There is some advantage that will come her way through written communication and likely through electronic communication. It seems like access to this database will increase her clientele and access to the information she is able to provide to clients that will give her an edge in her field.

The final card is the Hierophant numbered 5. This card connects Lisa to institutions and organizations which hold a large established structure. Within the next three months Lisa will have opportunities to expand and increase her training and it seems like she will ultimately be facing the decision to make a commitment to advance within a large organization. If the current company is a small or independent business it seems like some growth will take place over the next few months but that the opportunity to become part of a larger system will be enticing. This system has both work and educational components to it and it seems like Lisa will be able to learn a great deal from her experience with this organization but will postpone the autonomy and creative influence she may currently have in order to complete her training or be part of this organization. Likewise within about three months’ time Lisa will have the opportunity to experience advancement and the full potential of her current work but may come to feel stifled or repressed nonetheless. At this point it seems she will have the opportunity to advance her career by breaking ties with the current organization in favor of one in which she will earn more in the long term after completing some short term training and acquiring further seniority. Long term gains with short term sacrifice will be the theme in this transition as it will seem as if Lisa’s efforts are not bringing suitable level of financial rewards. It also seems like work within a government agency or work that involves an initial return to school will be presented and it will be in Lisa’s favor to pursue this in spite of short term financial constraints. This experience of stagnation and financial plateau after some initial gain and recognition will help serve as a catalyst for Lisa to reinvent her professional image with the help of a return to an educational program or alignment with this powerful organization. It also appears that a mentor or guardian particularly an older gentleman, is influential in helping Lisa to develop in her career at this time. The next few months will lead Lisa to opportunities to find her footing within her field by aligning with a powerful structure or institution which helps give her greater confidence and grounding in her new area. This institution blends spiritual tradition with very practical knowledge and skills and will help Lisa to develop an edge over the competition. This fall would be an ideal time to reconsider training opportunities that will allow Lisa to combine traditional techniques with access to newer technology.

As Lisa’s reading emphasizes the number three, this is a key time to network and expand the social links fostering connections with clients and selling opportunities. The theme of expansion is also fostered by stimulating Lisa’s own energy through creativity- especially use of the written word. This will help discharge stagnant energy and develop new potential through the creative act of establishing the end result through the focus of the imagination. It seems that Lisa will progress financially and will find a solid basis in her career but will eventually find some aspects of her current work to be too personally limiting. More specifically it seems that her sales and profits will increase but she will find that her personal share of her earnings will level off. It seems that she will reach a point where she is earning more than at present but not as much as desired to meet her expectations- either a portion of the earnings gets absorbed by the company or actually plateaus. When this time comes it seems that liberation through increased training or retraining will offer a way for personal and professional advancement. She is encouraged to be on the lookout for opportunities to engage in small focus groups as part of training experiences in the near future and be open to considering affiliation with a larger organization that fosters growth through certification, training and knowledge passed down through an official structure or hierarchy. Membership in a group that utilizes an electronic database to gather and share information will also be to her benefit. There is also an impression of mentors both in the physical and spiritual planes- Lisa’s Higher Power is guarding her interests and there is a strong intuitive/guardian spirit present with her especially in travel. She may have this energy focused in the form of a talisman or guardian image or icon in her car, but even if not this spiritual energy travels with her and is looking out for her highest good. She is encouraged to be receptive to the subtle guidance this spiritual energy imparts on her in the form of intuitive knowing beyond logical reason.

Best of luck to Lisa in her quest to enhance her career and find her niche in a new market. Remember, no matter where you are reading this column all readings are intended for entertainment purposes in accordance with NYS law.

Interested in being the Querent in next month’s column? Contact Angela at Trionfi78@gmail.com.

About Angela Kaufman:
Angela Kaufman has been exploring divination through Tarot cards for over a decade. She is a Certified Professional Tarot Reader and formed Moonlight Tarot in 2009 which would become Moonlight Tarot LLC in 2010. Angela uses the Tarot to assist clients in exploring personal growth and development, and in accordance with New York State Law offers readings for entertainment purposes. Angela began providing readings on a professional, “Moonlighting” basis in order to provide affordable readings to those seeking guidance, inspiration and fun. Angela is also co-author of the new book “Wicca, What’s the Real Deal? Breaking Through the Misconceptions.” And the newly released “Sacred Objects, Sacred Space, Everyday Tools for the Modern Day Witch” (Schiffer Publishing, 2011). In 2006 she joined ISIS Paranormal Investigations and has accompanied the team on numerous investigations in private residences and businesses throughout the capital region, Adirondacks, Vermont and Massachusetts.

For more information on services offered by Moonlight Tarot LLC, visit http://www.moonlighttarotllc.com

This month’s reading was conducted using the “Aquarian Tarot” by David Palladini, produced by U.S. Games Systems Inc. for more information please visit http://www.usgamesinc.com/Aquarian-tarot-deck/