Chapter 1: The Journey Begins

During my initial semester in Philosophy at Edinburgh University, I wandered into Blackwell’s Bookshop. As I collected various books from my reading list, I stumbled upon a captivating section dedicated to Mind, Body, Spirit.

How intriguing, an entire shelf filled with decks and literature on Tarot reading?!

Previously, my only exposure to tarot cards was through films and television. As a skeptical atheist in my teenage years, I was somewhat astonished to find such a mysterious and often misunderstood topic occupying a whole shelf in an academic bookstore.

A wave of judgment washed over me, quickly followed by a gentle inner voice urging me to reconsider:

"If you aim to be a philosopher, you must adopt a more open perspective. Explore new ideas with curiosity before forming an opinion."

This rational advice halted my dismissive thoughts. It was clear that I couldn’t simply disregard something as trivial without giving it a fair evaluation. Thus, I chose to purchase a classic Rider Waite Smith (RWS) tarot deck along with a Teach Yourself Tarot book for my philosophical exploration.

Later, I heard whispers suggesting that one should receive their first tarot deck as a gift to avoid bad luck. As a budding philosopher, I felt compelled to test this superstition myself.

My first subjects were my university flatmates and neighbors, who joined me in this experimental endeavor for a bit of fun.

I was amazed to find that my readings often elicited sincere and meaningful reactions, transforming my querents’ moods in ways that revealed they were touched by the messages conveyed. People began to share how my readings resonated with them, leading to profound conversations. Each positive encounter encouraged me, fueling my curiosity further.

Over time, my unexpected bond with tarot evolved into a connection with Spirit and the mysteries that I now cherish deeply.

Despite the superstitions surrounding tarot, I have never subscribed to such beliefs—except for those that are simply common sense, like avoiding ladders. The idea that one must be gifted a tarot deck to prevent bad luck never troubled me, nor does it concern most tarot readers who believe that such notions only serve to perpetuate the misconceptions surrounding tarot.

If your first deck was a gift, consider yourself fortunate. However, if it was self-purchased, don't let this belief hinder your journey into tarot. I feel empowered as a tarot reader, knowing my desire to explore this path stemmed from my own intuition.

I still cherish my first deck, which remains special to me. Over the years, I have amassed numerous additional decks—both received as gifts and purchased myself. Each deck carries its own story, intertwined with various people, places, and moments in my life.

While I occasionally reach for my RWS deck when it feels appropriate, I typically rotate among a selection of three to five decks for my readings.

In recent times, I remind those I read for that they hold the ability to reshape their narratives and create their own fortune, regardless of their circumstances.

What are your thoughts on tarot? Do you own a deck or two? Was your first deck a gift or did you buy it yourself? I’d love to hear your insights.

Chapter 2: Embracing Your Tarot Journey