Author: Hālau ʻĀha Hūi Lanakila

The Hanged Man generally shows that you are at a crossroads — one with only two options, i.e., in or out; up or down; yes or no.  You may find yourself very much wanting to do “something”, but having no idea what it is or how to do it.  If that happens, that’s a clear sign that you ought to stop, relax and look at ways that you might need to let go of attempts to control life, situations, people, things.  It is possible that there is an outdated attitude or wish that you need to let go of.  Any sacrifice that you make will open up your life to something even more positive than what you “let go of”.  All in all this ought to be a thoughtful, reflective time, particularly if you are willing to look at it, or how you might best serve your own interests by being willing to change.

There will be an improvement in your work/career life.  This points to an excellent time to find new work or to ask for and receive a promotion in your current job, if that is possible.  Particularly, if your work is in a creative field, this is a time when your suggestions and work will be met with excellent comprehension and may lead you to “bigger and better things.”  Money should be on the upswing when this card appears — even if no feasible way for this to happen is apparent.  Something will appear that will allow you to make more money, whether this is an idea, a chance to do some work “on the side”, or even a new position.  Have faith in yourself and your ability to succeed.

The Hermit is an extremely spiritual card, and often has to do with institutions and large organizations – everything from a bank to the entire Christian Church.  This card indicates spirituality even if you are an atheist.  It’s in whatever sense the word “spirit” makes sense to you, even if for you “spirit” equates to “emotion”.  You may be trying hard to figure out what the “truth” is about someone (or some matter), don’t feel that you have to do it all on your own, ask for help if you need it to gain different perspectives, more information, etc.  Just like with the Strength card, you may even more so be in the frame of mind that you need some time alone — don’t be afraid to take it.  Even if it’s just a five-minute walk around the house so that you can clear your head.  This is also very much a card about “trying very hard to do the right thing.”  Just make sure that “doing the right thing” includes doing what is right for you personally, and not just worrying about the wants and needs of others.

The World can signify that you are figuratively feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders, which is not an easy place to be.  It’s an excellent time to review how well you do at “asking for help” when you need it.  Remember, you don’t have to do everything on your own.  This can often be a card of completion.  You’ve worked hard and you are almost to the “finish line” in some way.  Don’t quit now that you’re almost finished!  You’re almost definitely in need of some well deserved rest and relaxation; don’t be afraid to take it.  You are getting closer to “who you really are” at your deepest levels.  You are likely to have several clear flashes of important spiritual insights during this time.  Keep a notebook handy and record these experiences.  Share and discuss them with others (even if your only outlet for that is online).  We are all on a spiritual journey and your insights are likely to be valuable for others as well.