The Luck of the Irish -- and Tarot!

Looking to catch a lucky leprechaun on St. Patrick’s Day? Though Patrick, the legendary Irish saint, is best known for driving the snakes (aka the Druids or the pagans), out of Ireland, the deep magical roots of the Emerald Isle still pervade the day named in his honor. Shamrocks, leprechauns and the Blarney Stone are all symbols that appear around this time of the year, reminding us of the magic of possibility, luck and serendipity.

In tarot, the card most similar to the Leprechaun is the Fool. This card represents risk-taking, leaping into the unknown and trusting that luck will support you. You can easily attract the energy of the Fool into your own life in a few easy steps. First, buy or copy the Fool card and put it in a prominent place like your altar, in your car or somewhere that you will see it every day.

Next, take a close look at the card. What do you see? Which symbol most strongly attracts your attention or interest? Is it the little dog dancing by the Fool’s side? The beautiful rose he is holding in his hand? The funny cap with the feather in it? The cliff he’s about to step off of? Where is your eye drawn to as you look at the image? Once you’ve identified your favorite symbol, you’re ready to go.

Now it’s time to make this card of luck come alive in your life by activating the symbol that you’ve chosen. To do this, you’re going to go in search of objects, pictures and reminders of this symbol and bring them into your daily life. Below are descriptions of what three of the main symbols might mean for you, and some ideas about how to magnetize these symbols in your life to attract their benefit and support.

FOOL CARD SYMBOLS

1. The Rose
Just like the Rose of Shannon, the rose in the Fool card represents emotions, love and connection. If you chose this symbol, it may mean that this is a time to take a risk in love, open your heart and let go without fear of failure.

Activation tips:
-- Surround yourself with roses!
-- Buy a big bouquet of roses, or wear rose oil.
-- Take a walk in a rose garden.

2. The Dog
This symbol represents instincts, friendship and protection. This could be a good time to look for your luck to come through others who support and believe in you. You may want to ask a friend for help or guidance now, and look to them for counsel.

Activation tips:
-- Watch the “Dog Whisperer”.
-- Observe your own dog.
-- Borrow a dog from a friend.

3. The Cliff
One of the only slightly scary symbols in the Fool card, the cliff represents risk-taking, facing fears and making changes. Your luck may arrive only after you confront your insecurities and create a sense of movement and transformation in your life.

Activation tips:
-- Take a hike near cliffs.
-- Notice what if feels like to stand on the edge of a cliff.
-- Hang a photograph or painting of cliffs in your home.