Tarot and Why I Love it
Tarot is an illustrated deck of 78 cards. Within that deck lie the 52 cards of traditional playing cards. The suits of the Tarot are comprised of: Cups (hearts), Rods (clubs), Pentacles (diamonds) and Swords (spades). Corresponding Court Cards are also included.
It was once believed that the Tarot was introduced in Europe by a nomadic tribe originating from Egypt, otherwise known as "gypsies". A more widely accepted and researched theory is that the Spanish Muslims first brought the playing cards to Europe in the 1300's. Tarot (Carte da Trionfi or Tarrochi) began in Italy in the early 15th century. Born out of the original playing cards, with 22 Major Arcana (Latin, meaning Secrets) added, it was presented to Italian nobility expressly to be used as a parlor game.
It actually was the regular playing cards that were used in fortune-telling games. Tarot was not valued to occult practitioners until the early 1780's.
There are over a thousand varieties of decks published throughout the world, however, the suits and symbols almost always correspond.
I was born with psychic abilities on January 26, 1950. This "talent" was neither encouraged nor discouraged, as it was accepted into my Mother's Catholic, French-Canadian, Micmac Indian family almost as a form of communication. The 'Gift', as some people call it, could be a double-edged sword. It was also an 'affliction'. As a young child, communication with my peers was often challenging and confusing.
Back in the late sixties there were no courses in colleges that offered studies in the occult, psychic abilities, paranormal investigations or Tarot.
Through the repeated advice from astrologers, mediums and other psychics, I finally found my niche.
At the age of 18 I got my first Tarot deck; the classic Rider Waite. I was fascinated by the cards. Their myths,mysticism and esoteric meanings were a magnet to this vulnerable student. The road to learning was often winding and bumpy. The suits, the numbers, the Major Arcana, the positions in the spread sometimes seemed mind-boggling. I persevered.
In 1970 U.S. Games Systems first printed the Aquarian Deck by Palladino. I met the deck that same year and it was kismet. I still love and use it today. The gentle pictures and calming colors speak silent reams of inspiration. The relevance to color in relation to Chakras have additional messages. As my confidence grew, using this deck, I found that my psychic intuition had been enhanced and refined.
In my readings, I show my clients that they have the ability to face any and all hurdles of negative energy in their lives. They can turn energy completely around through the power of positive thinking.
Tarot Cards are a vehicle. My clients are the drivers of the vehicle. I merely hold open the road map and explain the meanings of the routes they may choose to take. I have seen clients that were heartbroken before a reading and experienced deep inner peace after.
I love to help people help themselves!
Karen Coffey has been reading Tarot cards in her shop, Pyewacket's at 135 Beach Road in Vineyard Haven, since 1993. Karen is both competent and discreet. To book a reading call 508-696-7766 or 774-563-0326, or just stop by the shop. Look for Karen on Facebook and join her group. Gift Certificates available.
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