Thought patterns determine our experience of reality.

The Golden Universal Tarot, a reprinting of Roberto de Angelis’s Universal Tarot, is a delightful and whimsical take on the classic RWS imagery. Gold foil adorns the cards, adding a luster that sets an esoteric tone.

Picture It!

Bound to a tree, a well-appointed woman is blindfolded. Her Romantic attire is partially the choice of de Angelis in his reinterpretation of the RWS. The tree is in bloom as are the bushes behind the woman. Eight swords surround her in a semi-circle, sticking out of the ground.

Locked-In Syndrome

Though not the medical condition, being blocked and stuck emotionally can feel paralyzing. The Eight of Swords pushes minor symbols out of the way for the big, loud observation that the figure is trapped. She cannot move her limbs. The tree is immovable. She cannot see; her eyes are blindfolded. Even if she regained use of her limbs, the eight swords block her path. Unlike the action oriented wands and pentacles, or the emotional cups, the swords most often represent the world of the mind. We are fully capable of entrapping ourselves through unproductive thought patterns. Though the scientific and quantum juries are still out about just how much ‘thoughts’ determine our reality. They do determine our perception of reality. It’s easy to view this card as overwhelmingly negative. One of the tricks to the Tarot is learning that as with all things in life, perspective makes a huge impact. Look closely, the obstacles blocking the woman’s path aren’t impenetrable. Just as swords have a double-edge, so does each Tarot card, so do our thoughts.

Take Away

Thoughts determine our experience of reality. We encounter obstacles daily. There is no life lived that is free of obstacles, whether physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. Part of creating success in life is understanding that obstacles are only as insurmountable as our attitude towards them. Hannibal crossed the Alps in winter. Change your thought patterns about obstacles and unshackle yourself.

How does the Eight of Swords teach you to deal with obstacles? Join the discussion.