Eight of Pentacles

Welcome to season 7 of this podcast, where I am talking all about the Suit of Pentacles. I’ll be going through each card in the suit, one per episode. What we explore in this episode: What the Eight of Pentacles teaches about dedication, mastery, and meaningful work Symbolism across different decks: books, tools, craftsmanship, and sacred repetition How to know when your work is aligned with your purpose and when it’s time to pivot The difference between persistence toward meaningful goals vs. staying stuck in perfectionism Why mastery is a process, not an endpoint Pictures from the decks I talked about today referenced from left to right: The Goddess of Love Tarot Deck: A Book and Deck for Embodying The Erotic Divine Feminine by Gabriela Herstik and illustrated by Julia Popescu The Sasuraibito Tarot deck by Stasia Burrington The Desert Illuminations Tarot by Lindsay D. Williams In this episode, we explore the Eight of Pentacles—a card that celebrates devotion, craftsmanship, and the sacred act of steady progress. This is the card of meaningful repetition: the patient, focused work that gradually shapes both the craft and the crafter. The Eight of Pentacles reminds us that mastery isn’t just about talent, it's about devotion, resilience, and choosing to show up even when it’s hard. It also asks an important question: Are we honing a craft that aligns with our spirit, or are we simply grinding out of habit or fear? Sometimes, the work itself is fulfilling... and sometimes, it's a signal that it's time to pivot toward what truly calls us. If you haven't listened to my other seasons yet, go check them out! Season 1- Tarot basics Seasons 2&3- Major Arcana and 4 suits Season 4- Tarot in Pop Culture Season 5- Tarot Spreads Season 6- Suit of Wands Today's Tarot Pull: From The Citadel: A Fantasy Oracle by Fen Inkwright, I pulled The Scholar (reversed)—a card about investigation, learning, and perseverance. In reverse, The Scholar signals that it may be time to step back and reassess. Not all effort yields reward, and sometimes the most courageous thing we can do is redirect our energy when the path we've been working on no longer feels right. The reversal invites you to recognize when the pursuit of mastery has become rote, exhausting, or disconnected from your greater purpose. It’s okay to change direction. It's okay to dream again. Reflective prompts on this card: Where are you pouring your energy without feeling a meaningful return? What project, goal, or habit needs to be reassessed instead of pushed through? What dream or pursuit would light you up if you gave yourself permission to start over? Ways to Connect & Support Patreon: For monthly hangouts, tarot Q&As, individual readings, and behind-the-scenes peeks, join the Every Day Tarot Patreon family. Newsletter: Get my FREE 2025 5-Card Tarot Spread PDF + weekly musings, event invites, and magic straight to your inbox. Let’s Talk Tarot Meetup: Local to the Greater Puget Sound area? Join me in person on Monday, May 12th from 4:45-7pm at the Sumner Library for a Potluck and to create your own Tarot Cards. No experience necessary. I’ll bring all the supplies and we’ll talk tarot and craft together. Sign up here! Support the Podcast: If you love the show, the best way to support it is by listening daily, leaving a review, and subscribing or following in your favorite podcast app. Book a Consultation: I’m a sex & relationships therapist working virtually across Washington. I specialize in helping queer, kinky, polyamorous, and witchy folks navigate anxiety, chronic illness, communication, and identity work. Let’s see if we’re a fit: camilleasaunders.com