TWO OF WANDS
Witch of Wands -- World in your hands. Eye on the prize. Careful planning and making good choices. The energy of excitement doubles. Realistic intention setting. Plot a course of action. Do not allow others to drain you. Keep personal energy protected.
SHADOW: The road to hell is paved with good intentions. Taking responsibility for the worst thing you have ever done. When have you caused pain to another? When have you acted selfishly? Decide how you can make amends. Reconsider your current goals. Are you thinking of the highest good for all parties concerned? Is a quick fix worth it in the long run?
The Witch of Wands stands between two wands, symbolized by torches. Two is the number of reflection and division. The torches are oppositional forces, masculine and feminine, hot and cold. It is energy and lethargy, high and low, awake and asleep, east and west, etc. The witch stands between two torches and integrates the duality of oppositional forces through her physical body. She reflects the shifting polarities you synthesize at all times.
The witch holds a crystal ball, a symbol of fortunetelling and enchantment. Oz's wicked witch used a gazing ball to spy on Dorothy. Modern seekers infuse the ball with personal energy. They use the device to scry for symbols and see waking dreams and visions. The words divine and divinity are at the root of divination. The crystal ball reminds you to take a bird's-eye view of the situation at hand. Do not rush to decisions. Look deeper. Behold the belly of the matter. Stop to consider all outcomes. Energy is warped when old ideas cling. Do not share your plans with others just yet.
The witch's cone hat suggests the calling down of celestial, spiritual power from above. From the spired cathedrals of Europe to Islamic mosque towers to New England churches, steeples are a symbolic siphoning of energy. It is drawing down from above. The witch reminds you of latent power. You are the sorceress who conjures your life with actions and ideas. You can fill your life with enchantment. You are the spell. A gris gris bag hangs from the witch's waist. It is a talisman containing roots, herbs, and charms to bring the witch luck. Gather everything that empowers you. Keep it with you at all times. Discard what no longer serves your highest good.
Devoured red apples litter the ground at the witch's feet. Has the witch devoured these apples to consume their magic or has she infused the fruit with her energy and intention and fed them to the object of her desire? The alchemical markings on the wall are ancient knowledge as found in cave paintings and pyramids.
This is the planning stage. Every day you become more of who you are. When you know yourself, you'll know more than any fortuneteller or psychic could ever tell you. Hold your power as the witch holds her crystal gazing ball.