Card 40 • cups

Five of Cups

Brief Description

This card represents temporary disappointment and loss that leads to unexpected transformation. Like the princess who loses her golden ball only to meet her prince, what appears to be a setback may actually be the beginning of something wonderful. Current sorrows are temporary, and positive outcomes await those who remain open to unexpected possibilities.

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The Princess and the Golden Ball

Cursing her carelessness, the princess rushes along the forest path to save her precious golden ball and helplessly watches as it ends up in a deep pond. Nearby, observing the scene with a smile, sits a frog. He knows the story will take an unexpected turn, for he is a frog prince, and the ball in the water is his ticket to a happy life. It's her ticket too, but she doesn't suspect it yet. All her feelings are now tied to the loss of her beloved toy. When she sits down in despair on the wet stone, the hero of the story will make a frog's leap toward their shared future.

Temporary Loss, Lasting Gain

Whatever your equivalent of the golden ball may be, don't worry too much if you've lost sight of it. In the best stories, all the worst things happen shortly before the happy ending. Temporary loss or misfortune can lead to great benefits in the long run. Your story is not over yet.

Brief Meaning

Temporary disappointment. Happiness is on pause. There are still positive options available.

If You Look Closely

Sometimes frogs turn out to be noble characters under a spell, but you have to take their word for it. All frogs in the magical forest can speak, so don't let that mislead you.

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Forest of Enchantment tarot

✍️ Deck author(s): Lunaea Weatherstone, Meraylah Allwood

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