Readings
Two Cards
If you are trying to make a very important decision in your life and you don’t know which path to follow, if you are really doubtful about the consequences the crossroads tarot spread will help you to find your way.
Nine of Wands
Upright
Resilience, courage, persistence, test of faith, boundaries
The Nine of Wands comes as a symbol that even in the face of difficulty, you stay strong. You may be on the point of fatigue, but you are flexible, determined, and eager to do what it takes to make to the finish line.
This card may also show up when you feel damaged and beaten, having experienced big struggles. The Nine of Wands invites you to trust that this is only a test of your ‘courage’ and flexibility, and understand that every time you win an obstacle, you are getting more powerful. See this Nine as a promise that you will ultimately benefit if you maintain your posture.
Even if you desire to give up, this is your ultimate challenge before you attain your goal, so don’t let go of your hopes when you are so near to making them a truth.
On a more positive sign, you have people who help you. The Nine of Wands calls you to find your cheerleaders, those who will guard you against the ongoing difficulties and encourage you. Even if others doubt you, you have many more people who support your plan.
Get open on what you need in this state to be victorious and then talk those requirements to other people. On the same note, be aware that too many boundaries will block others from getting close to you. Bring your awareness to your proactively using boundaries to protect your energy.
Reversed
Inner resources, struggle, overwhelm, defensive, paranoia
The reversed Nine of Wands suggests that you are trying to keep going towards your purpose. The difficulties on your path are harsh, hitting you continuously. You may be ready to give up. Just know that you are very close to completing this difficulty. Gather your internal sources – your resilience, courage, motivation, and mindset and keep going.
The reversed Nine of Wands can also show up when you feel overwhelmed by your duties or lack the assistance of people around you. Know this is a temporary delay and make sure you do not take on any other responsibilities at this phase until you have more power over your concerns.
Finally, the reversed Nine of Wands can indicate paranoia, weakness, and anxiety that everyone is out to harm you. You may think you are under attack by the same group of people. Frequently, this is a hint of anxiety from inside you rather than a real external danger. Try to concentrate on your own play and don’t worry about what other people are thinking or speaking about you.
Strength
Upright
Strength, courage, persuasion, influence, compassion
The Strength card represents strength, energy, and power – like the Chariot. However, while the Chariot means outer strength and will, the Strength card symbolizes the inner strength. Strength is about knowing you can handle life’s challenges. You have great stamina and endurance, balanced with great patience. You are committed to what you need to do, and you go for your goals with maturity and inner calmness.
When the Strength Tarot card appears in a reading, you are full of individual power. You do not rule by trying to dominate others; you quietly influence and convince. And this is also an advantage that others may underestimate your power, however, it is so ‘transparent’.
Your strength gives you the confidence to overcome fears, difficulties or uncertainties. You have got what it takes to see this situation through to its final. You’re a loyal friend and a supporter and you might also feel compelled to hold space for someone who needs your power and help.
The Strength card advises you to ‘train’ your animal instincts, and raw emotions, and channel these primary responses constructively. It’s normal for negative feelings such as anger, fear, rage, shame, sadness or guilt to appear in certain circumstances. However, it’s what you do with these feelings that make all the distinction. Now is a time when you need to be alert of your instinctual urges. Overtake your situation from a place of love and compassion.
Reversed
Inner strength, self-doubt, low energy, raw emotion
When the reversed Strength card is shown up in a Tarot reading, it may be time to tune in to your current levels of inner strength. Are you overflowing with self-confidence, or are you exhausted? And how can you take these features back into balance?
You may be lacking in self-confidence if you have lately experienced a setback. Know that your center strength will always be with you and now is as good a time as any to reconnect with this strength. You may hold more strength and flexibility than you have always believed – so, be gentle to yourself.
Check on your energy levels right now. The reversed Strength card is your call to rest and withdraw for a temporary period to restore your energy levels. You must take care of yourself first, so you will be able to take care of other people too.
In its shadow form, the reversed Strength card warns that you are likely to show unstable behavior and becoming aggressive. You may end up doing something you regret later by acting without thinking. The key is not to repress the raw emotions and urges, but to learn how to channel it so it won’t hurt others or yourself.