The “Amends with Benefits” Adjusted-Reaction Spread

AUTHOR’S NOTE: I think I’ve outdone (or maybe undone) myself with pun-ish titles on this one. It’s a variation of the “yes-or-no” spread that takes the prediction in a more actionable direction.

This approach uses the cards in a positive-reinforcement way that focuses on the desired outcome, and recognizes that the outlook the seeker hopes to receive (the “Subjective Answer”) may be different from the forecast offered by the Universe (the “Objective Answer”). This necessitates a reconciliation between the two (provided by the numerical midpoint table shown below), producing consequential “fallout” that invites a response in the form of proposed action or inaction. This recommendation will either affirm the objective or indicate the need for discretion when pursuing the opportunity.

Card backs are from the Retro-Thoth Tarot, privately published

Begin by shuffling the deck and concentrating on the desired goal. Then deal four cards face-up in the positions shown. Reversals maybe used.

Using the table of numerical midpoints, find the card that sits midway between the top two randomly-drawn cards. This card represents the “adjusted” answer reflecting how the querent can “meet the Universe half-way” in working out a success path. Note that the midpoint might straddle two cards (for example, the 3 and 4 of Cups as highlighted in the table); in such cases, either choose the one that seems most appropriate to the context of the question or include both in the analysis (as I did in the example reading).

Read the “Fallout” card as showing the likely consequences of making the adjustment.

Read the “Proposed Action” card as suggesting what the querent can do (or avoid doing) to make the most of the projected consequences.

Here is an example reading for a hypothetical romantic liaison. While I prefer not to predict what people think or feel in relationship situations because I won’t do “mind-reading,” I have no problem looking at their chances to connect.

Card faces are from the Thoth Tarot, copyright of US Games Systems Inc, Stamford, CT

The two “answer” cards both convey the idea of finesse; Art (aka Temperance) reversed modulates the querent’s ambitions with prudent restraint, while the Prince of Swords reversed shows the need for subtle handling of the matter.

The numerical midpoint between them spans the 2 and 3 of Cups, giving the impression of cautious optimism in achieving the goal since the reversals imply emotional yielding. (Because the “answer” cards were both reversed, I chose to reverse the midpoint cards, adding nuance to the interpretation, but this is a judgment call that is up to the reader.)

In some sporting events, one statistical measurement identifies how many offensive “shots-on-goal” each team is able to pull off. In this reading, the upright Knight (RWS King) of Wands suggests that the querent will get at least one opportunity to score.

The Devil as the “Proposed Action” card goes straight to the point. It’s there for the taking if the querent is willing to throw caution to the winds. However, there may be moral repercussions.

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