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.
The Chariot
Upright
Control, willpower, success, action, determination
The Chariot is a card of willpower, courage, and strength. You have learned how to make decisions according to your values with the Lovers card, and now you are taking action on those decisions. When the Chariot arrives in a Tarot reading, take it as a sign of motivation. You have set your goals and are now directing your inner power with a deep commitment to bringing them to fulfillment. When you apply discipline to achieve your goals, you will be successful.
You may be pulled in conflicting directions for your conviction to be tested. Chariot is an invitation to move upon your willpower and home in on what’s necessary to you, so you can push past the barriers in your way.
The Chariot calls you to be courageous. Be clear in expressing your desires and defining your boundaries.
In a very exact understanding, the Chariot can describe travel. You may even be considering taking a road trip to roam the country!
Reversed
Self-discipline, opposition, lack of direction
Unlike the upright Chariot which is a green light to move ahead, the Reversed Chariot advises you to ‘back up the truck’. You might be trying to push a project forward too hard when really, you must back off or change direction. Or you might have lost your urge and no longer feel as committed to the result as you did when you started. So, if something is not moving forward as you planned, re-evaluate the situation and check-in to see whether it’s a hint that you need to change direction.
At times, the reversed Chariot is a warning that you are letting challenges get in the way, preventing you from accomplishing what you set out to do. It’s all getting too hard, and you don’t have the will to go on. If that resonates think about the things that mean most to you and why you want to complete this goal. Will you allow other people’s judgments to affect you or give up as soon as the going gets hard? Or will you follow through on your dedication?
If you like to have control over your fate and know where you are heading, this is the time to tighten the controls and become more disciplined in what you are doing. While feeling a loss of power can be quite demotivating, the key is to know what you can control and what you cannot. Focus your energies on what is in your control. Examine what you can do to enhance the situation.
Similarly, the Chariot reversed advises that you may be trying to control every small detail in your life. Loosen your fist and let things run their way. You do not always have to sit in the driver’s seat!
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.