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May 2008
THE BENEFITS OF BEING CERTIFIED
by Peggy Firth, CTM

Some of us collect certifications, licenses and degrees like furniture. But why become a certified Tarot Reader and jump through all of the hoops to attain higher levels of certification? As I was purchasing a frame for my latest certification I realized that it goes back to my childhood when good grades were rewarded with praise and maybe a hug. It was probably the only times when my parents could outwardly show me what felt like love and pride.

Now I let society reward me as I still wait for that verbal pat on the head and enjoy the benefits of "belonging." But there are other reasons why becoming certified is rewarding.

The levels of certification pave the way for acceptance as a professional Tarot Reader. Don't we all enjoy like minded folks? As an educator I feel more comfortable as a certified reader as it gives me a competitive edge and a feeling of acceptance, not only with my peers but the general public. Tarot is often a mysterious and little known art form which has a reputation associated with the occult. Such misconceptions can often be remedied with a respectable degree which coincides with mass belief in ethical conduct.

I also feel that becoming certified distinguishes Tarot readers from those who merely dabble. We take our work seriously and want to show the world that we have earned some degree of diligent training. I feel that some of my students have picked up some "off the wall" ideas about the Tarot and I want to be able to gently guide them along the path that leads to a greater, more balanced way of reading. As I have followed the criteria for attaining the various levels I have received the gift of greater clarity and knowledge of the Tarot as well as myself. As you strive for a higher level you are given the opportunity to involve yourself with wonderful books, conferences, amazing people and opportunities to contribute to the wealth of knowledge already shared. There is always more to contribute. The Tarot is finding its way into professional fields such philosophy, religion, psychiatry, medicine and other healing modalities. The Tarot has been used within other ancient organizations as well. Scholars over the centuries have marveled at the Tarot for its greater insight into the human personality.

As a budding writer, sharing my experiences and passion for Tarot takes on a greater level of professionalism and acceptance when I list my certification. I know that this will let my readers and editors know that I share many of the same ideas, concepts and ethics.

As we progress as an association I feel that everyone who contributes to the field of Tarot study should have a grounding in standards and ethics. I feel more comfortable reading and learning from someone who has taken the time to learn the history, symbols, and ethics of being a Tarot Reader.

I also feel competent as a reader when I teach or solicit business. The competition grows every year and I feel that I have now have an edge with my certification. The certifying board that I use offers these concepts: