Sample cards and readings:
The Bodyguard:
I am the one who stands between you and danger—mental, physical, emotional. I am your guardian and protector, and I stand firm in my place so you can grow in yours.
I give you distance from that which would distract you or derail you. I need you to be dedicated. I need to know that you will benefit from my actions. I need you not to use me as an excuse to cut off from the world and do nothing. You are talented and your gifts are not only valid but also needed in the world.
You must follow your own path and pursue your own dreams, and let nothing stand in your way. Your light is your own and cannot be seen by anyone else—they can only see what results when you follow your light. Lean on me when you need support, and don’t be afraid to take shelter behind the shield when you need to.
What is the most important thing for me to be aware of?
You carry me with you always. My stake and shield always guard your heart and imagination unless you decide to let the negative in. It is always your choice who to listen to.
Albert:
I am the one who wonders. I am the one who asks questions until I am blue. I am the one who transforms one thought or idea into another.
I bring you the ability to see beyond what is shown, to ask and dig and create more than your eyes can see. My gift to you is curiosity and spontaneous, serendipitous combinations that lead you to a destination of your own making. I need you to question everything (question authority before authority questions you!). I want you to know that imagination is your secret superpower. Use it to propel you to new heights.
How can I make your energy part of my daily life?
Look for the mystery in the ordinary—and then let your curiosity come out to play. Ask yourself what it is, where it came from, how it got here, who made it, and why? Pretend you are 5 and just make up the answers. The mystery is everywhere, no matter how ordinary something may seem.
Just for fun: Einstein on his porch in Princeton. Check out the footwear!
Shadow:
I am the one who is in the dark. I am the one you pretend doesn’t exist. I am where all the shame, guilt, anger, and resentment go to hide. I am a source of power and energy if only you will let me be. I am the one who holds the negativity until you are able to deal with it.
My gift to you is the knowledge that we are not really two mirror images—you are the mirror. You reflect the energy you are holding at any given time. Your emotions are just emotions and do not define you. I need you to know that I am your ally, not your enemy. I need you to stop judging yourself because of your misconceptions of the Shadow. Use the energy you have put here; it’s powerful stuff. Releasing the “demons” changes them. Sunlight alters everything. We work best as allies, not enemies. Look inside and you will find treasures buried deep.
What is one small way I can use your energy today?
Fear is pointless if it exists in a vacuum. If you must be worried about things that seem overwhelming, use the fear to help you get things done. Anger is useful but can also be your enemy. Be sure it is justified and that you use it carefully so as not to cause further harm.
Audacity:
I am the one who is afraid but does it anyway because the dream is more important than the fear. I am the one who walks into the unknown, off the cliff, trusting that I will be taught to fly.
I remind you that you are your own best guide. My gift to you is the knowledge that some things can only be done in a big way, ignoring the fear. I want you to know that you do not have to consult with others – and if you choose to, you do not have to heed their advice if it does not feel right to you. You are your own authority; you need no other validation. Your fear is the only thing that is stopping you.
What advice do you have for me for this project?
Stop overthinking. It is the source of your fear. You know your stuff, and you have a plan. Let it fall into place without panic or worry. Be yourself. You are all you have – and you are all you need. You are more than enough.
Muse Song:
I 
am the one who is Home. I am the one who holds you close and reminds you how wonderful you are. I am the one who is always here for you, who nurtures and encourages you. I am the friend who makes time when you need to talk. I am the hug offered when you most need it, the stranger on the street who smiles and says hello. I am the part of yourself that reassures you and keeps you on your creative path.
I give you comfort. I remind you that you are talented and capable. I give you permission to nurture and take care of yourself. I remind you that you compromise your creativity if you run yourself into the ground. I want you to be gentle with yourself. I need you to understand how vital this is for your health and thus your ability to follow your dreams. Dance. Grow. Get in touch with yourself so you can hear your true voice. Value your friendships and be there when your friends need you, too. Nurturing yourself helps you nurture others along with your creative dreams. These things build on each other.
What is one symbol I can use to remind myself of your message?
See me in a pair of teacups or coffee mugs. A blanket. A hug—whether you are giving/receiving or observing it. See me in the hand that reaches out to help when you most need it.
Suggested questions for your Muse cards:
- How can I find you in my daily life?
- How can I find you in my creative life?
- What advice do you have for me/for this project?
- What is the most important thing for me to do/be aware of?
- Where is your presence/potential strongest in my life?
- What is one small way I can use your energy today?
- What is one symbol I can use to remind myself of your message?
- What guidance do you have for me today?
- How can I make your energy part of my daily existence?
Looking for images for Part 2? Click here.