“a t˜˚ly ˛˝a˚ti˙˚l aˆd ˝ˇseˆt˘a b o f ˜ an oˆ˝ w o d˝ˇir˝ˇ...

“a truly beautiful and essential book for anyone who desires to take their Tarot practice to a deeper level.

This book encourages us to look to the Tarot as a North Star for the times we live in and to open

our arms to the hard, the scary, and the confusing aspects of life.”

—Lindsay Mack, creator of Tarot for the Wild Soul

“Tarot for Troubled Times is exactly what we all need right now. It’s not a book on Tarot—it’s a book on

living, using the Tarot as a tool to deepen our understanding of ourselves and compassion for others.

Smart, sharp, and kind, this book is a crucial navigational tool for a tumultuous era.”

—Courtney Weber, author of Tarot for One and The Morrigan

“Tarot for Troubled Times is a treasure to anyone interested in blooming in the face of shadow. Far more

than your standard instructional Tarot guide, this is a book of hope, of healing, and of insight.

Filled with rituals, meditations, journal prompts, and lessons on the Tarot, this book will leave you

feeling whole, validated, and magical.”

—Lisa Marie Basile, author of Light Magic for Dark Times and Wordcraft

Two masters of the Tarot team up to show us how to work with the shadow side of our being—the dark forces that deeply shape our lives—to liberate us from old patterns and limiting beliefs. In Tarot for Troubled Times, Shaheen Miro and Theresa Reed help us � nd the light in this darkness. Learning to work with the shadow—facing it directly and leaning into it rather than away—is the key to becoming unstuck so we can change negative patterns into positive ones and � nd healing and empowerment for ourselves and others. Tarot, as the authors show, o� ers a rich and subtle path for this profound transformation.

Through this book, you will discover a di� erent approach to Tarot, life, and self-empowerment. Even if you are not a Tarot card reader or have no intention of ever pulling cards for another person, this book will guide you to transform yourself so that you can change the world.

Shaheen Miro is an intuitive consultant, energy worker, artist, and creator of The Lunar Nomad Oracle. Visit him at www.shaheenmiroinsights.com.

Theresa Reed, also known as “the Tarot Lady,” has been featured in over � fty blogs, websites, podcasts, and magazines. She is the author of The Tarot Coloring Book and Astrology for Real Life. Visit her at www.thetarotlady.com.

US$16.95

www.redwheelweiser.com

PHOT

O BY

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Y RE

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Miro_TFTT_cv mex.indd 1 4/11/19 4:22 PM

This edition first published in 2019 by Weiser Books, an imprint of

Red Wheel/Weiser, llc

With offices at:

65 Parker Street, Suite 7

Newburyport, MA 01950

www.redwheelweiser.com

Copyright © 2019 by Shaheen Miro and Theresa Reed

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means,

electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval

system, without permission in writing from Red Wheel/Weiser, llc. Reviewers may quote brief passages.

ISBN: 978-1-57863-655-6

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data available upon request.

Cover concept by Shaheen Miro

adapting the photograph “Countess Castiglione holding frame as mask”

by Adolphe Braun, 1811–1877 (in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York)

Interior by Kathryn Sky-Peck

Typeset in Myriad Pro

Printed in Canada

MAR

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

REED MIRO_TFTT final pages.indd 4 4/12/19 10:36 AM

1

Introduction

Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness.

— A n n e Fr A n k

The world has gone wild, exploding with so much noise . . . and this has been a long

time coming. The social and political climate is something that many of us have

grown weary of, and for those who are sensitive to the uncertainty in the world, it

has been detrimental to their well-being. But know this: we’re living in a time of profound

shadow work. The paradigm is cracking, shifting, and revealing to us the fear, pain, and

chaos that have been bubbling under the surface for lifetimes. Collectively and individu-

ally, we are being called to take action, to face the shadow and instigate radical change.

We can be part of the solution.

Over the years, we’ve had countless conversations with people who feel lost, hope-

less, and are wondering what can be done to heal this world . . . and themselves. Those

conversations led to a class and, now, to this book that you are holding in your hands.

Tarot for Troubled Times isn’t just another Tarot book. Instead, it’s a handbook for

personal evolution, social justice, and healing.

In Tarot for Troubled Times, we are going to show you how to work with your

shadow so that you can liberate yourself from old patterns and limiting beliefs. You

will learn how to make peace with personal archetypes such as the victim and the

bully so that you can operate in the world as a positive, proactive force for good.

We’ll begin by examining personal fears and shadows. Through introspection and

meditation, you’ll face the dark and find the sources of light within yourself. This crucial

first step lays the foundation for our work with the Tarot.


2 t A r o t F o r t r o u b l e d t i m e s

From there, you’ll learn the archetypes of the Major Arcana and how to befriend

your shadow and heal yourself. We’ll also help you discover through affirmations, Tarot

prescriptions, magical rituals, and other healing modalities healthy ways to find your

voice and speak out so that you can become an ally and begin to do your greater work

in the world.

Then, we’ll begin exploring how the shadow shows up on the global stage. Once

again, the Major Arcana will reveal what’s happening in the world and how you can

make a difference in a way that makes sense for your archetype. We’ll also investigate

practical ways to step up as an ally or leader so that you can learn how to shape policies

and become an agent of change.

We’re also going to look deeply at issues that have touched many of us at one time

or another: death, grief, divorce, illness, addiction, and oppression. With a selection of

mindful, introspective Tarot spreads, you’ll learn how the Tarot constellations can help

you rewrite your healing story and change your life.

Through this book, you will discover a different approach to Tarot, life, and self-

empowerment. Even if you are not a Tarot card reader or have no intention of ever

pulling cards for another person, this book will guide you to transform yourself so that

you can change the world.

The goal of this book is to help you heal yourself—and the world. We are all in

this together, and if each of us does the work, we can become powerful beyond belief.

At times, you may still feel enraged or helpless. Life may hand you problems that

seem far greater than your ability to manage, or the world may seem to be falling apart

faster than a wet paper towel. During these challenging times, Tarot is your friend. Like

the Hermit’s lamp, Tarot is the trusted ally that can guide you inward to the source of

light and wisdom that is you.

Tarot for Troubled Times is a contribution to the light and empowerment of those

brave seekers who wish to go deep into the conflict, excavate the shadow, and reveal

the light. Now more than ever we need to discover our intrinsic gifts as we go into the

world fortified and aware as radical beings of light for positive change.

—s h A h e e n m i r o A n d th e r e s A r e e d


5

1What’s in Your Knapsack?

If you were about to spend a week deep in the wilderness, you probably wouldn’t

attempt it without the correct supplies, right? You’d want to bring a knapsack filled

with all the essentials: a compass, knife, tent, dry clothes, canteen, and foodstuffs.

These tools would help you survive if you were to encounter treacherous weather or

wild animals.

Without these necessities, your adventure might take a dark turn.

You’d be a Fool.

But what about when you’re dealing with the big, wild world closer to home? How

do you cope when all you see in the media is doom and gloom? Do you suck it up and

stuff your feelings behind a closed door that no one can reach? Or do you choose to

numb yourself through drugs, alcohol, sex, or endless hours in front of the television?

If these are the ways you are choosing to operate when turmoil strikes, you may be

depleting your emotional gas tank and running on empty.

At some point, if you stay on this course, you’re going to bottom out. You need

the right tools to remain grounded, healthy, and happy no matter what is going on out

there . . . or in your own life. Remember that ultimately what is happening inside you is

what will dictate how you cope, manage, or take a stand in the world.

When you draw from your knapsack, or inner reserve, you fortify yourself against

the rough terrain of the great wilderness of life. And you don’t just survive . . . you thrive.

Maybe you’ve spent your whole life feeling like you’re fighting an uphill battle,

being met with continuous challenges, roads to nowhere, and endless surprises. Many



others have, too. But there is a different way of living and being in the world—a spiritual

way, led by the wisdom of your inner compass.

If you look at Tarot’s Fool, you might notice he has a small backpack that he car-

ries on a wand. The wand symbolizes magic, and that knapsack is filled with his past

experiences as well as the tools he needs to move about freely. He can leap into the

world with total confidence because on some level, he knows that he has the proper

utensils to make magic happen.

What about you? What’s in your knapsack?

Is it full of magical implements and practices that uplift and sustain you?

Or is your knapsack empty?

What if you could be certain the necessary rituals and utensils were there for you

whenever you need them? Imagine how your life would look. Instead of operating out

of fear, you’d be living with total freedom. Better yet, you might be inspired to step up

and lead with boldness, and that is what the world needs in troubled times: fearless

leaders with the resources to guide and uplift us all.

But you can only do and be that if you have the appropriate tools.

We’re not talking about hammers and nails. Instead, we’re looking at the spiritually

oriented stuff such as meditation, Tarot, magical rites, and affirmations.

These devotional tools have helped people for centuries have calm, meaningful

lives, even when the world felt unsafe. Here’s the truth: we’ve been living in troubled

times since humankind first figured out how to start a fire. Wars, violence, and tragedies

have plagued us since the very beginning, so troubled times are nothing new—but

neither are the practices in this book.

We’re going to show you ways to work with ancient spiritual traditions and tools so

that you can be the best version of yourself . . . no matter what is happening out there.

Instead of hobbling through life, your journey can look like something else: Golden

light floods over your shoulders and fills you with a glow of freedom and certainty. Your

steps are light and buoyant and ready for new terrain. Over your shoulder you carry

a staff fixed with a small, red knapsack at one end. Bundled inside are the tools and

implements you need to navigate any situation that might fall into your path.

Moving closer to the edge of uncertainty, your belly flutters with butterflies of

anticipation. Great adventures have a funny way of filling us with wonder and trepida-

tion—essential fuel to keep you moving.


w h A t ’ s i n y o u r k n A p s A c k ? 7

Each step you take will hold the promise of possibility. Whether you stroll through

peaceful meadows or find yourself negotiating rough, rocky terrain, with a bit of plan-

ning and commitment you’ll be ready to meet whatever lies ahead. You might even

blaze a few trails.

Before you cross the threshold into the wild stretches of unknown land, consider

what you might bring to make your journey easier. Gather your awareness and sink your

feet into the present moment. A successful adventure starts with intentional planning

and preparation.

Finding your present coordinates gives you enough awareness to take your first

steps confidently. So start by noticing where you are. What is the present state of your

life? What are you missing? What do you have in abundance? Are you prepared for

change?

The first thing to pack in your knapsack is a compass. You want to have a keen

sense of direction, especially when you wander into uncharted territory. That compass

is the difference between orienting yourself or being lost in space.

Each one of us is gifted with an internal navigation system as a means for travers-

ing all the ups and downs of life. Deep inside of you is an unshakable knowing, your

deeper wisdom, your truest voice, your intuition. This guiding force has always been

there, waiting for you to trust, look, and listen.

Every step of the way holds a new challenge, a new possibility, and a chance to

grow. Sometimes you will be met with challenges that you cannot change. You might

be on a path with no other way but forward. Even if you cannot alter your present

circumstances, you can still change your reaction to it. By using your internal compass

and arming yourself with the proper tools, you’ll find your way and thrive!

You can start by changing how you look at the world. If you’re viewing the land

before you with fear, you’ll be sure to find fearsome things. Rather than meet this

adventure with resistance, open yourself up. Be brave, curious, and willing to observe

everything around you just as it is.

Close your eyes and take a deep breath down into your belly. Let it out slowly.

Continue filling your body with deep, luscious breaths, exhaling each one slowly.

When you start to feel settled, scan your body from head to toe. Notice any physical

sensations. What is your body telling you? Listen to the sounds around you. What do

you notice? As you continue breathing in and out, observe any thoughts that arise in



your mind. Where does your brain go? Are you thinking about a random task, fretting

over a problem, or do you feel anchored in the present moment? Open your eyes and

look around you. What catches your eye? How does it make you feel? Are you rooted

in the now or somewhere else?

Take a few more deep, conscious breaths. Orient yourself so that you face north.

Even if you’re not sure where it is, let your body find north. Once you are in position,

plant your feet firmly on the ground, drawing energy up from the earth into your legs.

Feel yourself becoming grounded, present, and fully in the world.

You’re here—right where you are supposed to be. Know that, no matter where

you are standing or what is happening in your world or the world, you can make a dif-

ference. You can be a formidable force for good.

Before you can throw yourself fully into that role, you must know the terrain and

your abilities, and fill your knapsack with all the essential spiritual tools. This starts by

going through the darkness and facing the shadows you find there! And that is just

what we will do together.

One of the most important tools you’ll need on this journey is a journal. A journal

is a place to record your thoughts, feelings, readings, rituals, and experiences. Like a

trusted friend, your journal will help you unpack issues, clear your emotions, harness

your creativity, contemplate your life lessons, and understand yourself. A journal will

give you support as you navigate the often treacherous terrain of the world you live in.

Journaling brings clarity and mindfulness, which set the foundation for healing,

growth, and change. As you take time to record your life, you can begin to unravel

the knots and liberate yourself from the bondage of limiting beliefs, old stories, pain,

grief, and anger. As you make peace with those parts of yourself, you begin to develop

compassion, the first step necessary for changing the world.

Your journal doesn’t need to be fancy—even a plain notebook will do. Find one

that you like and then begin.

Before we go any further, take some time to journal around these

prompts. Write whatever comes to mind. Let your feelings flow!

Remain curious and open. Do not censor yourself. See what comes


w h A t ’ s i n y o u r k n A p s A c k ? 9

up for you. When you feel done, put it aside and review it a few weeks later—especially

after you’ve worked through the other exercises in this book.

Where do you feel stuck, blocked, or in pain?

Where do you feel good, whole, blessed, and in the flow?

If you could change any of this, what would that be?

What might that look like?

When have you felt afraid to speak up?

How do you hold yourself back?

In what ways do you lift other people up?

When have you contributed to oppression, either knowingly or unknowingly?

When have you felt oppressed? What was that like?

What does the word power mean to you?

When you think of inclusivity, what does that look like in your life? How might

you create a more inclusive, welcoming world for people of color or other

marginalized folks?

Take your time with this. Do not judge yourself. Hold space for it. Take deep breaths.

Now . . . get ready to face your shadow and find the light.


“a t˜˚ly ˛˝a˚ti˙˚l aˆd ˝ˇseˆt˘a b o f ˜ an oˆ˝ w o d˝ˇir˝ˇ...

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