Based on numerology, there is a Tarot Card for each year which speaks of the tone and tenor of the year – what kind of challenges we are likely to encounter and how best to meet them.
Determining the Year Card is a simple process – for example for 2024, it’s 2+2+4 = 8.
The number 8 in the Tarot deck is the Strength Card. In A.E.Waite’s deck there is a painting of a maiden in a white dress. She holds a lion’s leash with one hand and with her other, is gently closing the lion’s mouth. She wears a white robe with a sash of red roses, the symbolizing that she has balanced the masculine and feminine forces within her. She has befriended and tamed the instincts within her which when not properly tamed, could get out of control.
It is a card that speaks of equilibrium, taming forces and courage in the face of fear. There is a lemniscate, (the number eight turned sideways) over the maiden’s head. The lemniscate is a symbol for eternity and for the interconnectedness of all things.
Every year a good friend gives me the gift of a Many Moons Lunar Planner for the upcoming year. It has many talented astrologers, Tarot Card readers, herbalists and others who contribute their writing.
In the calendar there is always a section on the Year Card. This year there was a paragraph that particularly caught my attention.
“The Strength Card usually shows up when we need it most :it is a reminder of our own reserves and capabilities in times of upheaval as well as shiny new endeavors. It is a reminder that hard, impossible times are the ones that show us what we are truly made of. To be able to stay open-hearted and open-minded -full of grace and generosity -through betrayals, cruelty and impossible moments.It is a reminder that play, pleasure and creativity or part of a well lived life. This card asks you to stop turning away from that which you desire.
This is the year to do things that will develop your strength and stretch outside your comfort zone.” The Many Moons Lunar Planner