Hercules kingly cousin, in an ongoing attempt to get him killed, sent him to deal with a huge, nasty tempered boar. Herc did it, and then brought the boar back alive, to terrify his much less macho tormentor! Feeling betrayed? Has a close relationship gone to hell? The Three of Swords understands, but inflicting your pain on others rarely helps.

Demeter cursed Erysichthon, who cut down the trees in her sacred grove, to unending hunger. The man sold all that he had to buy food, even selling his daughter into slavery, but it still wasnt enough. He finally died by eating himself! Beware of the Queen reversed, who can be greedy, selfish and vengeful, always craving more but never satisfied.

Amphitrite, goddess of the sea and saltwater, is our Queen of Cups. The Cups equate water with emotion, at times the deep, troubled waters of introspection or the rough seas of discontent. But not here! This queen is sunlight on calm seas, personifying hope, happiness, devotion, and loyalty. A true friend.

Hestia, sister to Zeus, was goddess of the home, hearth, and hospitality. Giving food and sanctuary was considered a sacred duty in the ancient world, especially by the followers of Hestia, who would take in even the lowliest of beggars. You may be feeling poor in health, money or acceptance right now, but look around and you will find those willing to help.

The Lovers card is all about choices, romantic or otherwise. Like Ares with Aphrodite, you may soon discover a person, career path or pastime that will completely enthrall you. The question is whether its the right choice in the long run.

A symposium in the modern world is a meeting of scholars to discuss new research. In ancient Greece, where the term originates, it was a meeting of scholars to drink until they puked. And to hang out with pretty flute girls (and boys). Modern day symposiums could learn a few things from the ancient Greeks! Likewise, you could be a little less serious about something today.

The pythia, the ancient oracle at Delphi, is our High Priestess. When you ask her a question, she just points to the two small words carved over her temple doors: Know Thyself. People dont have to hide from you what you refuse to see.

See Icarus make some fake wings. See Icarus attach them to his back with wax. See him soar high into the sky. Fly, Icarus, fly! See the wax melt. See Icarus plummet to a messy death. Any questions?

Bellerophon killed a monster, married a princess, and seemed set for happily ever after. Except that all that wasnt enough. He started to think that his true place was among the gods. And since he happened to have a magical flying horse, he took off for Olympus . . . and was promptly thrown back to earth for his hubris. Beware arrogance and rash decisions now.

Karen Chance