March Celtic Cross Reading: Ending of One Difficult Chapter
- AIC
- Mar 15
- 21 min read
Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026
Moon Phase: Waning Crescent
Good Morning Friends!
I have been away on vacation and just got back last Thursday. We took some time off to be with nature and are just now getting back into my routine. I started this Sunday morning with a Coffee Meditation and a Celtic Cross reading.
We are heading back to our previous state for the final move and preparations to rent out our old house so I wanted to mentally prepare and get some outlook and clarity for this week/month with this situation.
The Celtic Cross is used when you want/need clarity on a situation because card(s) pulled have a specific placement for clarity. Here is an image for reference. (Please don't sue me, I am just educating people!) With this chart, here is today's reading, which will hopefullt offer clarity regarding the previous state life/situation so we can move on and let go.
Position 1: Where you are right now:
Note: These jumped out together, so we read them together.
First Impressions:
I was happy to see the first 2 reversed because I know swords mean thoughts (basically, it's in your head), but that wheel of fortune made me feel weary, but that's exactly what I am working on here as I struggle with my overthinking and pessimistic thoughts.
Card Meanings:
X of Swords (R)
Core symbolism: endings, collapse, betrayal, hitting bottom.
Imagery Elements:
A figure lying face down
Ten swords embedded in the back
Dark sky above
A sunrise appearing on the horizon
Symbolic Structure:
The card represents the absolute end of a cycle. The swords (mental conflict, harsh truths, consequences) have already landed. Nothing further can be added.
Important visual symbols:
Dark sky → past suffering
Sunrise → renewal after the ending
Still body → completion of the event
Reversed symbolism in imagery:
When reversed, the visual meaning shifts toward:
rising after collapse
moving away from the final moment
the sun beginning to dominate the darkness
The image itself already contains recovery (the sunrise), which the reversal emphasizes.
Reversed interpretations:
Recovery after a painful ending
Beginning to move away from a difficult situation
Surviving a betrayal or loss
Gradual healing after emotional exhaustion
Resistance to fully accepting that something has ended
Lingering pain from a past collapse
Themes present:
The worst phase has already happened or is passing
A cycle of suffering is beginning to lift
The process of rebuilding after devastation
VII of Swords (R)
Core symbolism: secrecy, deception, strategy, avoidance.
Imagery Elements:
A man sneaking away from a camp
Carrying five swords
Two swords left behind
Looking over his shoulder
Symbolic Structure:
The scene shows stealth, strategy, or concealment.
Key imagery meanings:
Carrying swords away → taking knowledge or power secretly
Looking backward → fear of being caught
Two swords remaining → incomplete control
Reversed symbolism in imagery:
When reversed, the story visually shifts toward:
being caught in the act
returning the swords
abandoning deception
exposure of hidden behavior
Instead of escaping the camp unnoticed, the reversal symbolically suggests the act can no longer remain hidden.
Reversed interpretations:
Truth coming out or being revealed
Confession or exposure of hidden actions
Being confronted with consequences
Attempting to return what was taken or correct wrongdoing
Self-deception becoming harder to maintain
Accountability or the end of secrecy
Themes present:
Hidden matters becoming visible
Confrontation with honesty
The need for transparency
Wheel of Fortune (R)
Core symbolism: cycles, fate, change, turning points.
Imagery elements:
A large rotating wheel
The letters TAROT and Hebrew symbols
Four winged creatures reading books (fixed corners)
A sphinx at the top
A serpent descending
Anubis rising
Symbolic structure:
The wheel represents cycles and inevitability.
Elements of the image:
Rising figure → ascension
Descending serpent → decline
Sphinx → balance and knowledge
Fixed creatures → universal order
The wheel turns continuously, representing constant movement between phases.
Reversed symbolism in imagery:
When reversed:
the wheel appears stalled
the downward movement dominates
timing is misaligned
cycles feel stuck
The cosmic motion is temporarily out of alignment.
Reversed interpretations:
Feeling stuck in an unfavorable cycle
Delays in change or progress
External circumstances not moving forward
Resistance to inevitable shifts
A period where events feel outside of personal control
A cycle that has not yet completed
Themes present:
Stagnation or slow movement
Misalignment with timing
Difficulty shifting momentum
Combined Meaning of the Three Cards Together in Position
When these three appear together, the shared symbolic themes include:
Recovery After Exposure The Ten of Swords reversed suggests recovery from a painful ending. The Seven of Swords reversed indicates truth or hidden actions becoming visible.
Together they can represent a painful truth surfacing that allows healing to begin.
Consequences Leading to Closure
The sequence can represent:
A situation reaching collapse (Ten of Swords)
Hidden behavior or deception becoming revealed (Seven of Swords)
A cycle that has not yet fully reset or moved forward (Wheel of Fortune reversed)
This combination often reflects the aftermath stage of events, where the damage has occurred but the cycle has not yet turned.
A Cycle That Has Ended but Has Not Yet Renewed
Symbolically:
Ten of Swords reversed → the ending has already occurred
Seven of Swords reversed → truth or accountability appears
Wheel of Fortune reversed → the next phase has not begun yet
This represents a transitional phase between collapse and renewal.
Pattern Recognition
The cards together can also symbolize:
recognition of past mistakes or deception
understanding how previous actions contributed to the outcome
awareness that change requires breaking a repeating cycle
Overall Symbolic Pattern:
Taken together, the cards reflect:
aftermath of a difficult ending
exposure of hidden truths or behaviors
a period where progress or change is temporarily stalled
the closing stage of one cycle before another begins
Symbolic Progression of the Three Images:
Looking at the imagery as a narrative sequence:
Stage 1 — Collapse
Ten of Swords (reversed)
The ending has already occurred. The damage is visible, but the sunrise indicates the event has passed.
Symbol: aftermath
Stage 2 — Revelation
Seven of Swords (reversed)
Hidden actions or strategies are exposed or abandoned.
Symbol: truth surfacing
Stage 3 — Stalled Cycle
Wheel of Fortune (reversed)
Even though the ending and exposure have occurred, the larger cycle has not yet shifted.
Symbol: waiting for the wheel to turn
Reflection:
These readings mean nothing without reflection. Each time a card is pulled we are meant to stop and reflect on what is gong on in our lives and what the cards are trying to reveal. They provide clarity to those willing to see it.
Without revealing too much about my personal life, let's just say I have been going through it. From the sudden passing of my husband's mother, the passing of my best friend and then quitting my career and moving to another state to take care of my MIL's estate, it has been a lot.
Some situations at work were left unfinished and some people were left behind. I have been dealing with letting go on a certain coworker friendship because it just isn't reciprocated and it may be due to miscommunication. Besides the current ordeal with the house and the financial situation we just cleared (refinance) and the new venture into renting and finally finishing the move across the country, these three cards reveal where I am at this point. But, let's continue into the reading because that is what we came here for.
DISCLAIMER: By the way, since I am new at this and learning, I am working with Chat GPT to tie in the meanings and analyze symbolic structures. I have my books, and I write down my initial thoughts but do rely on the power of AI to bring it all together and clarify actual meanings, until I learn them all.
Position 2: Potential/Challenges
These two cards came out together, and initially I thought it was one card, and then I saw the one in the back of the Judgement Card.
First Impressions:
The queen reversed always makes me nervous, but as soon as I knew she was the Queen of Swords I thought "WOOHOO My overthinking is upside down! The judgement card always makes me nervous because I hate being judgy, but that is just novice ignorance because thats not what the card means. It made me feel like I was going to be harshly judged by not being the queen of overthinking things anymore.
Card Meanings:
Queen of Swords (Reversed)
Core symbolism: intellect, truth, communication, boundaries, clarity.
Reversed meanings:
Miscommunication or misunderstandings
Emotional distance or defensiveness
Harsh or cutting words
Difficulty expressing truth clearly
Misinterpretation of intentions
Withholding information or guarded communication
Themes:
Words and communication becoming tense or misunderstood
Intellectual or emotional defensiveness
Challenges with clarity in discussions
Judgement (Upright)
Core symbolism: awakening, realization, evaluation, decisions, reckoning.
Upright meanings:
A moment of realization or clarity
Being called to respond to a situation
Review of past actions or decisions
A turning point based on awareness
Truth becoming clear
Renewal or transformation after reflection
Themes:
Seeing something clearly
Being prompted to make a decision
A moment where awareness leads to action
Combined Meaning of the Two Cards in Position 2:
Potential Challenges (Note: I used Chat GPT to help organize these meanings because this was a lot)
Communication Leading to Realization
The Queen of Swords reversed represents:
unclear or tense communication
defensiveness or guarded expression
The Judgement card represents:
a realization or awakening
a moment where truth becomes evident
Together this combination symbolizes:
a conversation or situation that leads to an important realization
misunderstanding or emotional tension followed by clarity
reviewing a situation more honestly after communication issues
Exposure of Truth
Queen of Swords reversed → unclear, emotional, or sharp communication
Judgement → truth revealed, awareness, evaluation
This sequence can represent a truth becoming clear after confusion or miscommunication.
Reflection After Tension
Symbolically:
Words, communication, or thoughts become complicated or strained.
A moment of recognition or awareness follows.
A decision or evaluation occurs because of that awareness.
Symbolic Narrative of the Spread:
The imagery shows a progression:
Queen of Swords reversed → clouded intellect or strained communication
Judgement → awakening, realization, or evaluation
This sequence reflects a shift from confusion or emotional defensiveness toward awareness and clarity.
Reflection:
I sure hope this is true. Things have been confusing, chaotic and it has affected several aspects of my life. Currently, heading back to my old house brings unresolved feelings of mourning.
I am leaving a state I grew up in and raised my kids in. I am leaving a house that had the happiest and most hopeful moments of my life and the saddest.
I am walking away from unresolved issues with my adult daughters and leaving behind a work culture and group that I built in a toxic environment for something new. I am leaving behind a friendship that my mind says I need to end but my heart says I do not understand what the other person is going through so I should respect the silence. I wish I had clarity, but after almost a year at this I have not received the clarity I need so I just have to let go (maybe?). I am stuck on this. But, I am hopeful that I will be able to gain the insight I need to move in peace and light. But, Let's continue because we don't have all day! (Or do we?)
Position 3: What to Focus on
Friends, this is what was needed. I need to find peace and guidance on what to focus (my anxiety!) on and stay grounded. This is why I love this Celtic Cross because it helps me find that and let go of (some) anxiety. I tried to just pull out one card, but two came out together, so we just went with it.
First Impressions:
First, I love the QUEEN energy. This one was upright, which means something with abundance. Felt like she was saying, focus on the good things and then I saw the reversed Justice and this one slaps me again. It makes me so nervous when cards and reversed, but that is because I am new and I have to work on just learning all the meanings. I can't memorize things I just have to keep working at them, so let's go (With the help of AI to organize all the meanings available on the internet and books!)
Card Meanings:
Queen of Pentacles (Upright)
Core symbolism: stability, nurturing, practicality, material security, grounded support.
Upright meanings:
Creating stability in practical matters
Focus on home, resources, or responsibilities
Providing support or care to others
Managing finances or material concerns responsibly
Grounded decision-making
Balancing work and personal responsibilities
Themes present:
Practical solutions
Responsibility for resources or environment
Stability and grounded thinking
Justice (R)
Core symbolism: fairness, accountability, truth, decisions, balance.
Reversed meanings:
Imbalance or unfairness
Misjudgment or incomplete information
Avoidance of responsibility
Bias influencing decisions
Lack of accountability
A situation where fairness is questioned
Themes present:
Issues involving fairness or ethics
Decisions influenced by imbalance
Situations where facts or perspectives may not be fully aligned
Combined Meaning of the Two Cards
Practical Responsibility vs. Fairness Issues
The Queen of Pentacles represents grounded responsibility and practical management.
The Justice reversed represents imbalance, unfair decisions, or unclear judgment.
Together they symbolize:
managing practical matters while dealing with a situation that feels unfair or imbalanced
a responsible or nurturing approach encountering questionable decisions or outcomes
practical stability being affected by issues of fairness or accountability
Stability Facing Ethical or Decision Challenges
Symbolically:
Queen of Pentacles → grounded support and stability
Justice reversed → imbalance or questioned fairness
This combination can represent maintaining stability while navigating a situation involving unclear judgment or imbalance.
Visual Narrative of the Pair
The imagery progression shows:
A grounded figure holding a pentacle — representing care, stability, and practical focus.
The scales of justice tipped out of balance — representing fairness being challenged.
Together the visual story represents stability encountering imbalance or ethical tension.
Reflection:
Well, we see (maybe) where this is going. I have been holding it together for everyone for decades. It seems I was just born into this life to keep it together for everyone else and 2025 sure ripped that skin off with the Wood Snake year.
These cards have brought some clarity. I have remained grounded, caring and fair, but I do not know all the facts of have all of the information. These cards have reminded me to look for all the facts and be aware of situations before making practical decisions. I will keep this warning in mind as I head back to my former state to wrap things up. I definitely do know have all the facts needed and if tension arises, I will remind myself ro stay grounded in facts and pragmatism.
This is a good place to pause and ask Chat to help organize these meanings and explain how to put them together:
Overall Symbolic Narrative So Far
Across the spread the imagery suggests a sequence:
A difficult cycle has already reached its end.
Hidden or unclear elements surrounding it become visible.
Communication or perception is initially strained.
A moment of realization or evaluation emerges.
Practical stability remains present, but fairness or balance is still being resolved.
The larger cycle has not fully shifted yet.
Structural Pattern in the Cards
The spread includes strong representation of:
Swords (mental processes / truth)
Ten of Swords
Seven of Swords
Queen of Swords
Themes:
truth
perception
communication
Major Arcana (major turning points)
Wheel of Fortune
Judgement
Justice
Themes:
cycles
evaluation
fairness
Pentacles (practical matters / stability)
Queen of Pentacles
Theme:
grounded reality
Overall Tarot Structure Present
The spread suggests a process of:
ending → truth emerging → realization → evaluation → delayed cycle change
Position 4: Your Past
This time I was careful and pulled just one card. Waited to see if anything else flew off, but this was clearly the card for this spot.
First Impressions:
Those bitches love to be reversed! But, wands are not as scary as swords and I have been getting a lot of swords so maybe wands are better. He is reversed which may mean something bad, but that's just my nine of swords overthinking brain creating worse case scenario, so let me just learn about this card.
Card Meanings:
The Kind of Wands (R)
Core symbolism: leadership, vision, initiative, authority, action.
Reversed meanings:
Impulsive leadership or poor direction
Overbearing or dominating behavior
Lack of follow-through on plans
Misuse of influence or authority
Frustration when plans do not move forward
Energy that is unfocused or scattered
Themes present:
leadership energy that is misaligned
difficulty directing action effectively
strong personalities influencing events
Symbolism of the Imagery:
The King of Wands sits on a throne decorated with lions and salamanders, symbols of fire, power, and transformation.
He holds a flowering wand, representing creative force and initiative.
When reversed, the symbolism shifts toward:
fire energy becoming uncontrolled or misdirected
leadership lacking balance or restraint
ambition without grounded execution
Meaning of Group 4 in the Celtic Cross Position
In a Celtic Cross structure, Position 4 traditionally represents the recent past or what is fading from influence.
With King of Wands reversed, the symbolism can reflect:
a period where leadership or direction was unstable
someone exercising authority poorly or forcefully
plans driven by strong will but lacking balance
a powerful personality influencing events in a difficult way
Combined with the Previous Groups
We now have a clear progression forming in the spread.
Group 4 (recent influence)
King of Wands reversed
↓
Group 1 (current situation)
Ten of Swords reversed
Seven of Swords reversed
Wheel of Fortune reversed
↓
Group 2 (crossing influence)
Queen of Swords reversed
Judgement
↓
Group 3 (foundation)
Queen of Pentacles
Justice reversed
Structural Pattern Emerging
The spread shows a sequence:
Past influence
strong leadership energy that was misaligned or dominant
Resulting aftermath
a difficult ending
hidden elements revealed
a cycle temporarily stalled
Current influence
communication strain or misunderstanding
followed by realization or evaluation
Underlying structure
practical stability present
but fairness or balance being questioned
Reflection:
This was clear. Sometimes we do not want to accept things about ourselves, but this is bringing the clarity I asked for. Basically, those around me have had my presence (dominating, authority figure), we had a difficult ending (when I checked out and never came back, I gave no explanation, no reasons, just left. I had excellent reasons.
There was so much I was carrying and so much happening behind the scenes that I never shared with anyone and one day, I just couldn't go back. The aftermath was felt by everyone who cared about me but I had to save myself. Clearly there is communication strain and misunderstandings. Im not sure if the realization is for me of them (assuming its me since I am just now realizing this is the aftermath and I can't expect anyone to forgive what they don't understand and not experience their period of grief because I still care about them. There are definitely feelings of unfairness felt by some, that perhaps I could have stayed, but my mental health and well being were more important and I needed to break free from that life. But, this was the past events that have yet to be resolved.
Tarot Suit Balance So Far
Swords (truth, communication):
Ten of Swords
Seven of Swords
Queen of Swords
Major Arcana (major life forces):
Wheel of Fortune
judgement
Justice
Pentacles (stability, material reality):
Queen of Pentacles
Wands (action, leadership):
King of Wands
This shows a spread dominated by mental processes and major turning points, with leadership energy influencing the past and practical stability underneath the situation. Sounds like my life!
Position 5: Your Strengths
Just one card, peacefully took this position. It was slow, careful and clear.
First Impressions:
You already know....I have reversed card PTSD I am working through. But, this one shows the tower was attacked and people were falling, but reserved it looks like they are flying. Interesting, like being saved from something.
Card Meanings:
The Tower (R)
Core symbolism: sudden upheaval, collapse of unstable structures, revelation, disruption that forces change.
Reversed meanings:
disruption being postponed or softened
resisting a necessary change
avoiding confrontation with an unstable situation
internal upheaval rather than visible external events
gradual dismantling of something rather than sudden collapse
realization of instability but hesitation to act
Themes present:
tension beneath the surface
awareness that a structure or situation is unstable
attempts to maintain stability despite underlying cracks
change unfolding slowly instead of dramatically
Symbolism of the Imagery
The Tower card depicts a tall stone tower struck by lightning.
Key visual elements:
Lightning striking the crown → sudden revelation or truth breaking through illusion
The falling crown → loss of false authority or ego-based control
Flames and sparks → chaotic energy released by the shock
Two figures falling from the tower → forced departure from a false sense of security
Dark sky and storm → crisis that exposes reality
The tower itself represents structures built on unstable foundations — beliefs, systems, relationships, or power dynamics.
Reversal in Symbolic Terms
When the card appears reversed, the imagery suggests:
the lightning has struck, but the collapse is not yet fully realized
instability is recognized but not yet confronted directly
the fall may occur internally or gradually rather than suddenly
The symbolism shifts from immediate external crisis to awareness of instability and delayed transformation.
Reflection:
My strengths based on this card. It wasn't very clear but I am going to say that I have the ability to stay calm during instability. I am great under pressure and have been called a calming presence in chaos. My old work place not only lost me, they also got a new manager and a lot of changes happened. The tower looked like chaos (upright) but reversed it looked like they were being uplifted.
It makes me think that another strength is my ability to recognize when things are starting to fail. In my previous job I used to struggle to get the reactive people to be proactive and it was exhausting. It just wasn't sustainable anymore. My mental well-being came to the forefront in a lot of places and I finally chose me. Perhaps, because I am able to see when something is cracking and crumbling, I was able to catch myself before losing myself.
I also have a lot of resiliency. I can take a lot, but that doesn't mean I want to. I want to focus that energy into building something for myself and my family. I no longer want to use my energy to serve others' interests while neglecting myself. I have the ability to transform and going back to my old state reminds me of how much I gave of myself, what it cost me and how far from that life I am now. I do have the ability to rebuild, but I am rebuilding myself and I am sorry to all that have been left without my guidance. I need ME for the next couple of years while I rebuild.
Position 6: Near Future or What is Approaching
Just one card, peacefully took this position and snuck in a friend.
First Impressions:
Glad to see the King of Swords reversed on this one and that he brought the Empress with him. This is the first time I get her so I am looking forward to learning about her, but seeing her makes me feel good. She has this female energy and peaceful demeanor.
Card Meanings:
King of Swords (R)
Core symbolism: intellect, authority, logic, truth, analytical thinking.
Reversed meanings:
misuse of authority or intellect
manipulation through words or logic
poor judgment or biased reasoning
communication becoming controlling or rigid
decisions made without full clarity
emotional detachment affecting fairness
Themes:
leadership or authority acting from imbalance
difficulty with objective thinking
tension around communication or decision-making
The Empress (Upright)
Core symbolism: growth, nurturing, creativity, abundance, fertility.
Upright meanings:
expansion or development
nurturing environments
creative energy and productivity
comfort and material or emotional growth
focus on well-being and supportive relationships
new ideas or projects developing
Themes:
creation and growth
nurturing influence
development of something tangible or meaningful
Combined Meaning of the Pair: Contrast of Energies
The two cards represent very different archetypes:
King of Swords reversed → intellectual authority misaligned
Empress upright → nurturing, creative growth
Together this can symbolize:
logic or authority conflicting with nurturing or creative energy
rigid thinking encountering a need for growth or compassion
a shift from cold analysis toward supportive development
Symbolic Progression
The sequence shows:
Imbalance in intellectual authority or decision-making
Movement toward growth, creation, or nurturing energy
This reflects a transition from rigid or strained control toward a more supportive and productive environment.
Visual Narrative
The imagery contrast is strong:
King of Swords reversed: throne, sword, authority of intellect but turned upside down
The Empress: nature, fertility, abundance, life
Symbolically:
control → growth
or
rigid logic → natural development
Reflection:
That King of Swords reversed was not what I initially thought, but I was right about what I felt about the Empress. Im kind of shocked about the contrasting energies, which makes sense when thinking about heading back to our old state and clearing out the final move and prepping for what to do next with the house.
Given the situation with my husband and the role I have had to take, I know there is an imbalance in decision making, but I guess I should continue to embrace and guide (at least until he catches up) and this may lead to abundance. It really has been a difficult time, but I am feeling like we will see the fruits of all the hard work and all of the investments and headaches this month. Thank God. I feel relief and hope....maybe.
Position 7: Suggested Approach
Just one card..... reversed. :/
First Impressions:
It's like, he thought he had it together by proudly taking his one cup and then he got flipped. Sounds like my life story. Let's learn about this card.
Card Meanings:
Knight of Cups (R)
Core symbolism: emotion, idealism, invitations, romantic or creative pursuit, intuition.
Reversed meanings:
emotional imbalance or moodiness
unrealistic expectations
withdrawing emotionally
difficulty expressing feelings clearly
disappointment when ideals do not match reality
hesitation in acting on emotional impulses
Themes present:
strong feelings but uncertainty about how to express them
emotional sensitivity influencing perception
idealism encountering practical reality
Symbolism of the Imagery:
The Knight of Cups rides slowly while holding a cup forward.
Symbols include:
Cup → emotion, intuition, inner experience
Horse moving calmly → reflective rather than aggressive action
Water imagery → emotional depth
When reversed, the symbolism suggests:
emotions becoming uncertain or conflicted
idealistic expectations losing direction
internal reflection rather than outward movement
Meaning of Position 7 in the Celtic Cross
With Knight of Cups reversed, the symbolism suggests about my internal stance or role within the situation:
heightened emotional awareness but uncertainty about expression
idealism or expectations being reconsidered
emotional reactions becoming more internalized
Pattern Emerging
Across the spread so far there is a strong mix of:
Swords (truth, communication)
Major Arcana (major turning points)
reversed court cards (leadership or emotional roles out of alignment)
The Knight of Cups reversed adds emotional sensitivity and internal reflection to the dynamic already present in the spread.
Reflection:
Yeah that did not take much time to make sense. I have to remember that cups mean emotions and the horse was moving calmly which means move with reflection instead of reaction. I have to be analytical and leave emotions out of decisions and remind myself that I am a problem solver and can stay calm in difficult situations.
This is a turning point for us, the end of the trials is here and there are emotional ties that need to be cut and emotional lose ends that need to be tied, but, if we can't get it done, then that's ok too. I trust the Universe and where it is taking us. We have been alone in this grief and we have managed to do amazing things while in the midst of it, so, of course we will be OK now that we are coming out of the dark period, as long as I remember to be reflective and embrace the emotional sensitivity and grief that comes with gong back to unresolved things and moving forward away from those you love and a life/career you spent decades building.
Position 8: What You Need to Know
Just one card..... reversed. :/
First Impressions:
I have learned that reversed sword cards are good, so this one makes me think that I can't just charge into a situation and fix everything. He is ready for battle and then he is flipped.
Card Meanings:
Knight of Swords (R)
Core symbolism: rapid action, communication, confrontation, decisive movement.
Reversed meanings:
impulsive or reckless behavior
arguments or sharp communication
rushing into situations without reflection
aggressive words or conflict
scattered or chaotic mental energy
acting before thinking
Themes present:
tension in communication or discussions
rapid movement of events without full control
strong personalities pushing situations forward aggressively
Symbolism of the Imagery:
The Knight of Swords charges forward quickly with a raised sword.
Key imagery elements:
charging horse → urgency and momentum
raised sword → decisive communication or confrontation
wind-blown clouds and trees → turbulent energy
When reversed, the imagery symbolizes:
uncontrolled momentum
impulsive reactions
communication that becomes combative or rushed
Meaning of Position 8 in the Celtic Cross
Position 8 represents the external environment or people influencing the situation.
With Knight of Swords reversed, the symbolism suggests:
external pressures pushing events quickly
people acting impulsively or aggressively
conversations or decisions happening rapidly or without full reflection
a surrounding environment with strong mental or verbal energy
Pattern With Position 7
Now have two knights together:
Position 7 (self):
Knight of Cups — reversed
Position 8 (environment):
Knight of Swords — reversed
This shows a contrast:
internal emotional sensitivity (Cups)
external mental intensity or confrontation (Swords)
Symbolically:
emotion inward → intellect outward
Structural Pattern Emerging
A notable pattern in the spread:
Many court cards reversed
• Queen of Swords Rx
• King of Wands Rx
• King of Swords Rx
• Knight of Cups Rx
• Knight of Swords Rx
This indicates strong human dynamics, personalities, and communication styles influencing events.
Reflection:
External environment. I know what that may be. My husband can be impulsive in come decisions and then reluctant in others. As he learns to live with grief and transitions into this next stage of life, we struggle with communication and getting on the same page. I have promised to be patient and well, I just can't forget that promise when we go back.
We were both mentally scattered when we were there and, ironically, his mother's passing has forced us to reevaluate what we want in life and work towards building that future life we both want. The thing is we were both going to work at our former jobs until 2027 and then start thinking about the next move this year. Life had other plans and we were thrust into decision making in the middle of a terribly sad time. Then, once I was surfacing a little, my friend died and I was forced into a void. Still had to function without any support of compassion. Yeah, not doing that again.
Position 9: Hopes/Fears
Just one card..... reversed again but a second one popped up... I left it and thought it would be card 10, but when Chat added the meanings together I figured it was a sign to keep them together in position 9.
First Impressions:
Trying to balance life upside down is tough. The hermit makes me think that my decisions will leave me alone and empty. That me taking the reigns will lead to ruin (That 9 of Swords overthinking at play).
Card Meanings:
Two of Pentacles (R)
Core symbolism: balance, managing responsibilities, adaptability.
Reversed meanings:
concern about losing balance between obligations
feeling overwhelmed by multiple demands
difficulty maintaining rhythm in responsibilities
fear of overextension or burnout
Themes:
imbalance, competing priorities, practical stress.
The Hermit
Core symbolism: introspection, wisdom, quiet reflection.
Upright meanings:
stepping back to think carefully
seeking understanding internally
withdrawing from outside noise to gain clarity
guidance through reflection
Themes:
solitude, contemplation, inner guidance.
Combined Meaning of Position 9
Together these cards symbolize:
a desire to step back and simplify responsibilities
hope for clarity through reflection
concern that current obligations or pressures are too much to manage
The combination suggests a tension between:
external demands (Two of Pentacles reversed)
and
the need for quiet reflection (Hermit).
Reflection:
Clearly I have much to learn and much to fix. Why did I immediately go to my fears and thought about the worst? "Hope for clarity through reflection".. that is exactly it.
Thinking that current obligations are too much to manage, also truth. Wishing life was simpler and that I didn't have to worry about all of the things I have to handle? Definitely true as well. Do I need more time for myself to quietly focus (and write as I am doing now?) of course!
Does my life allow for this time happen? Not always and not for this long. Writing this has taken me all morning (which is why I am only doing this once a month). But... last one!
Position 10: Potential Future/Outcome
I pulled one card, carefully, slowly, and ....I loved this card. This card made me feel good!
Card Meanings:
Strength
Core symbolism: inner resilience, calm control, courage through patience.
Upright meanings
emotional mastery
patience and compassion guiding action
quiet confidence rather than force
overcoming challenges through steady endurance
balancing instinct and reason
Themes:
inner stability, courage, controlled power.
Meaning of the Outcome Position
With Strength as the outcome, the trajectory points toward:
maintaining composure in challenging circumstances
handling pressures with patience rather than force
gradually stabilizing situations through calm resilience
The imagery shows a woman gently guiding a lion, symbolizing power controlled through calmness and compassion rather than aggression.
Overall Symbolic Arc of the Spread
Across the spread the progression is:
A difficult cycle has already collapsed or ended.
Truths or hidden dynamics become visible.
Communication and leadership dynamics are strained.
Responsibilities and balance feel difficult to maintain.
Reflection becomes necessary to understand the situation.
The trajectory leads toward steady inner strength and emotional control.
The spread resolves with Strength, which represents stability gained through patience and resilience rather than force.
Final Reflections will be posted on a separate entry. Let this Celtic Cross work for you in the way the universe intended it.
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