Below is an excerpt from the Dark Days Tarot Guidebook by Emily Mundy
Eight of Cups
The Eight of Cups is a card of sharp transition. Nerves cringe, fear wells up inside, and doubt floods the way the querent is experiencing this transformation. These heavy hesitations might very well be the cause of negative feelings associated with the situation. Thus, the querent is encouraged to think more positively about what lies on the horizon. Inverted, this card points to an unsureness of success. Consider what has been (or what might be) rejected without clearly seeing possible positive aspects in the sallow situation.
Suggested prompts:
upright: sadness in change; hard transition
right: masking emotions; neglecting true feelings
left: seeds of doubt; uncertainty
reversed: rejection of positivity; a fall into wallowing
The eight of cups is a sacrificial card. Tears stream into eight cups clutched by all eight limbs of this character’s spiritual structure. Sacrifice is difficult by definition, yet inherent to creation.
Tears of authenticity may be present, here, revealing the true nature of the woe. When given proper space and loving kindness, tears can reveal guidance, which then may emanate from the throat chakra in the form of spoken spells.
This card is an invitation to seek conversation which may spark authentic, unburdening release.
This card may indicate a revelation of prejudices within the querent. Authenticity is at the at the root of all healing. Aspire self-educate in the pursuit of self-improvement.
Be sure to reflect on any areas where you may be judging based on race, sexuality, gender, sex, income, clothing, online presence, etc. and mend those interactions, bringing yourself in line with your highest values of kindness and compassion.
Cups: Love as a duty to community.
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Eights: A distinct opportunity to complete the karmic pattern you’re currently engaging with.