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JUNE 2011
Two of Cups
The Lovers card (above) is the Major Arcana image that reflects the minor Two of Cups.
by Peggy Firth, Certified Tarot Master
THE TWO OF CUPS
 The Two of Cups of the Rider Waite deck has a male and female wearing crowns of laurel while exchanging golden cups under a caduceus, an ancient Greek affirmation of the merging of masculine and feminine natures. The caduceus staff with two snakes represents this merging of two natures around a solid core. The lovers depicted in the card do not notice this floating symbol between and above them.
The fierce looking lion head with wings perched atop the caduceus is the symbol of combination and protection. Winged lions are typically viewed as guardians of sacred places. They're most often seen at the entrances of tombs, protecting the ancient souls of the deceased. In the distance are rolling hills with a house perched on top.
Cups represent forming a bond, a truce or a partnership. The cards around it in your reading hold great sway in determining the outcome of this relationship that is quickly deepening.
The Two of Cups is a passive cards in the deck and relies heavily on the other Tarot cards in a reading to give a complete picture. If other Cups appear in a spread they will indicate a bonding but if other minor suites appear in a spread those cards will indicate what type of partnership or relationship will form.
Upright – Indicates partnership, engagement or friendships. The card is indicative of marriage, romance, passions and emotions. A partnership may be indicated.
The Two of Cups shows the beauty and power that is created when two come together. This is the card that lovers want to see and the Two of Cups is the Minor Arcana equivalent of The Lovers in many ways.
Reversed - Two generally suggests a beginning between two people. At a simple level, this card could suggest a possible new friendship or a renewed relationship. I read reversals as a delayed action.
For those who read reversals as opposite - Out of balance, a troubled relationship, divorce, misunderstanding, lack of trust, inappropriate or unreasonable expectations, break up, separation, false friend, opposition, unrequited love, discord, incompatibility, holding back, isolation, repressed anger, quarrels, emotional pain, betrayed confidence, disillusionment, infatuation.
Further Thoughts on Reading for the Emotionally Challenged
As Tarot readers we sometimes read for the emotionally challenged person. When a querent contacts us we often do not know what they expect from a reading.
Before suggesting ways to read for the emotionally challenged we have to consider how this is best done. I often find that the querent hopes to hear what their ego craves. The baser instincts, material goods and words that ‘pump’ the ego are often the most meaningful.
Our words will not help the client nor assist in empowering him or her if they are directed to the higher Self or Divine Mind. We often have to get down to their level in order to please them. Remember, the Tarot is considered ‘entertainment’.
What is emotional intelligence? The first step is for the emotionally challenged person to accurately perceive their emotions.
Emotions help prioritize what we pay attention and react to. We respond emotionally to things that require our attention.
The ability to manage emotions effectively is a key part of emotional intelligence. Regulating emotions, responding appropriately and responding to the emotions of others are all important aspect of emotional management.
Most of us are not licensed counselors and should not be giving advice or treating a reading as a healing venue.
Effective strategies for the emotionally challenged
As the reading proceeds we begin to realize that we should adopt a more positive manner and assist the querent in managing or prioritizing the issue or situation. Listening and asking appropriate questions is key to this endeavor.
Using the cards as a tool without literal interpretations is recommended since you are “walking on thin ice.” A more positive approach, especially for reversals will leave the querent more empowered.
The traditional method of reading reversals, which often have a negative meaning, should be examined and used as a way to ask questions. I use reversals as ways to heal a situation or to extend the time in which something will happen.
I often find that the emotionally challenged has to explain a situation several times. Those who are co-dependent or in abusive relationship cannot be healed in one reading since their problems go much deeper. It may be enough to allow the querent to vent.
Remember, as Tarot readers we do not give advice. We can offer alternative ideas such as, “Have you considered?”
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