by River Ashe
This week’s reading comes from the Fairy Oracle by Arthur Rackham and Jaymi Elford. This is only a 36-card deck, but the artwork and profound meanings of the cards more than make up for the missing number. Each card is drawn in a style that resembles watercolor and pen sketches, and depicts some of the less conventional, attractive sides of the fae folk.
The card meanings have been interpreted from the guidebook sold with the deck, written by Jaymi Elford. This booklet comes with interpretations in six languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, and Russian.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) pulled Teachers. This week, you will be asked to look for answers in unlikely or unusual places. Teachers can be anywhere— be sure you keep your mind open for them. “Nature has much to share. All you have to do is listen,” the guidebook said.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) drew Enlightenment. This card depicts the beautiful Helena, who rejects any love that does not fit her ideal. This week you will be asked to really consider your path. Allow yourself to be open to realizations. “Look to the higher sources to guide your inner compass,” Elford wrote.
Aries (March 21-April 19) pulled Rest. This week, you should finish whatever it is you’ve been working on and step back. Respite is desperately needed and deserved. Be sure to give yourself a break, or risk burning out. “It is time to sleep, perchance to dream,” the guidebook stated.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) drew Observation. Pay attention to your surroundings this week. Do not ignore those who seem insignificant. Anything and anyone can be a learning experience in this time. “What you see is what you get,” Elford said.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) pulled Punishment. Be appreciative and thankful for any and all gifts given, physical or otherwise. They can always be taken back. Take a moment to express gratitude to your benefactors or “pay the price,” according to the guidebook.
Cancer (June 21-July 22) drew Shared Wishes. Everyone has wishes, but many are too ashamed to share theirs for fear of mockery or rejection. Share your desires and goals with the ones you love this week; perhaps they can help you reach them. “Wishing on dandelions has been around for a long time. It is said that when you pick one and blow, you can receive any wish your heart desires,” Elford said.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) pulled Defense. This card warns you to be on your guard and be aware of your surroundings this week. Something, whether intentionally harmful or not, will try to throw you off balance. “Take preventative measures and be prepared. You never know what lurks in the brambles,” the booklet warned.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) drew Enticement. This week you will be asked to leave your comfort zone and jump into the unknown. There are greater things in store for you than the ones that are familiar. “Embrace the change, the chance to do something new,” Elford encouraged.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) pulled Re-evaluation. You are stuck in a situation brought about by your own choices. This week you will have the chance to reevaluate those decisions and free yourself from this sticky situation. The guidebook also advises, “get help from those you trust” if you can’t do this alone.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) drew Distraction. “Distractions are a part of life,” Elford wrote. You must be careful not to let them carry you away from your path. Be sure to limit the interruptions and distractions in your everyday or working life this week to avoid falling off the beaten trail.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22—Dec. 21) pulled Fond Farewell. This week, you will be asked to make a difficult goodbye. Whether to a person, place, object or idea, this will be hard. You will be upset by this turn of events. “This is the only way you can clear yourself, so you can move forward towards the next realm,” the guidebook said.
Capricorn (Dec. 22—Jan. 19) drew Secrets. The time has come for you to open up and trust the people around you with your secrets. Carrying such a heavy burden can be a lot to handle, but the people in your life love you and want to help. “Sometimes the secret can help lighten your load and brighten your day,” Elford noted.
