Five of Cups

There is a heavy feeling of loss whenever the Five of Cups appears upright. Things may not have unfolded as you had hoped. Emotions—self-pity, disappointment, and regret—can weigh you down as you dwell on what went wrong, making it difficult to see that while some of your cups have fallen, others still stand. Grief is valid and must be processed properly. However, this card also poses an important question: What can be learned from the remaining cups that are standing?

Contrary to the sadness that envelopes the mourner in Five of Cups, a reversed Five of Cups means that you are beginning to make peace with the past. As you gather the strength to rebuild, you are also seeing things from a different light - even feeling gratitude for the lessons that accompanied a painful loss. This card is an affirmation of your ability to move toward acceptance and healing. Take it one step at a time. Be kind to yourself and take pride in your journey, no matter how small it may be.