Understanding the Power of Good Tarot Cards
Intro
Tarot cards have fascinated people for centuries. Many individuals use them as a tool for divination, offering insights into their life decisions and personal growth. Understanding good tarot cards involves more than just picking a beautiful deck or knowing how to shuffle. It is about grasping the nuanced symbols, the energy of the cards, and how they interact with the reader's intuition.
Selection of good tarot cards becomes crucial not only in readings but also in personal development. This article will discuss what makes a tarot deck good, the popular examples available, and how they can be used for various aspects of self-discovery.
The significance of tarot goes beyond entertainment; it can provide a structured way to explore one’s emotions, challenges, and paths to personal growth. By exploring the different decks and their symbolism, one can grasp how these cards act as mirrors reflecting our inner world. Throughout this article, readers will gain insights into the essential elements that constitute a good tarot card experience.
Understanding Tarot Cards
Understanding Tarot cards is crucial, as these tools provide insight into the complexities of human experience. In this section, we will define what Tarot cards are, explore their rich history, and break down the structure of a Tarot deck. This foundational knowledge will enhance the depth of the subsequent discussions regarding the criteria for selecting good Tarot cards and the interpretation of their meanings.
Definition of Tarot Cards
Tarot cards are a set of cards that are typically used for divination and introspection. Each card features various images and symbols, which help to convey messages and insights. The primary purpose of Tarot cards is to guide individuals in understanding their past, present, and potential future. This makes them a popular choice among those seeking clarity in their lives.
History of Tarot
The history of Tarot spans several centuries and cultures. It is believed that Tarot originated in the 15th century in Europe as a playing card game. Over time, its use morphed into a method of divination, particularly during the 18th century. The cards became associated with mystical and esoteric traditions, expanding their appeal to those seeking spiritual insights. Today, Tarot remains a popular practice worldwide, with numerous interpretations and styles adapting to cultural nuances.
Structure of a Tarot Deck
A Tarot deck typically consists of 78 cards divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.
Major Arcana
The Major Arcana comprises 22 cards, each representing significant life events or universal themes. This set is a crucial element in Tarot, as it highlights profound aspects of life. Key characteristics of the Major Arcana include its focus on transformative experiences. The unique feature of this group is the representation of archetypes like The Fool, The Magician, and The High Priestess, which encapsulate powerful energies and lessons. Understanding these cards often provides deeper insights during readings.
Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana includes 56 cards divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit represents different areas of life and emotions. The Minor Arcana is essential for offering more specific insights into daily challenges and situations. A key characteristic involves its detailed nature, providing a broader context to readings. This group allows for a richer interpretation, as it complements the Major Arcana by detailing life's day-to-day events.
Court Cards
Court Cards form a subset of the Minor Arcana. They include pages, knights, queens, and kings, symbolizing various personal characteristics or influences in a person's life. The importance of Court Cards lies in their representation of social roles, personality traits, and interactions with others. Their unique feature is the ability to represent a person involved in the reading or an aspect of the querent’s self. This makes them valuable for navigating personal relationships and understanding social dynamics.
Criteria for Good Tarot Cards
Selecting tarot cards is not merely a casual endeavor. There are key factors determining the quality and effectiveness of tarot decks. Understanding these criteria is essential for both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Good tarot cards can deepen insights and enhance readings, thus offering a profound experience to the user.
The three primary criteria for evaluating good tarot cards are intuitive resonance, artistic design, and usability in readings. Each of these elements contributes significantly to the overall experience and practical application of the tarot.
Intuitive Resonance
Intuitive resonance refers to how well a deck connects with the reader on a personal and emotional level. When a reader chooses a set of tarot cards, they should feel an inherent pull or connection, as this helps facilitate interpreation. Different decks resonate differently, depending on the individual’s taste and intuition.
A crucial aspect of intuitive resonance involves the imagery depicted on the cards. Each card should evoke feelings, memories, or insights that align with the reader’s perspective. A strong intuitive link enhances the effectiveness of tarot readings. Often, readers will report better outcomes when they feel aligned with their deck.
Factors to consider include:
- Personal Connection: Do the images and themes resonate personally?
- Emotional Response: Does the deck inspire feelings of comfort or curiosity?
- Spiritual Alignment: Does the deck align with the reader's own spiritual beliefs and practices?
Artistic Design
Artistic design is another vital criterion for good tarot cards. The aesthetic elements of a deck hold significant weight in the reader's engagement. A well-designed tarot deck can amplify understanding and interpretation of the readings. Designs can vary widely, from traditional illustrations to modern interpretations, each with its unique energy.
When selecting tarot cards, scrutinize the following aspects of their design:
- Imagery: Each illustration should be detailed enough to provoke thought without being overly complex.
- Color Palette: Colors can influence mood and understanding, impacting how a reader interprets the cards.
- Symbolism: Effective use of symbols can enhance the depth of a reading, allowing for nuanced insights.
A tarot deck like the Rider-Waite Tarot is famed for its clear imagery and symbolism. In contrast, the Thoth Tarot possesses a more complex and layered design that may appeal to more experienced readers.
Usability in Readings
The final criterion, usability in readings, speaks to the practicality of the tarot cards. A good deck should enable smooth readings, allowing the reader to convey meaning effectively. This usability encompasses card size, type of cardstock, and how easily the cards can be shuffled.
Consider the following when evaluating usability:
- Card Size: Cards should be easy to handle, ensuring that any reader can shuffle and draw effectively.
- Durability: The material used affects how well the cards withstand frequent use.
- Clarity of Images: The clarity of images plays a critical role in interpretation; complex visuals may hinder understanding during a reading.
Having a good tarot deck based on these criteria can make a substantial difference in the reader's practice. A conscious approach in selecting a tarot deck that fulfills these criteria enables better readings, ultimately enhancing the overall experience of tarot exploration.
Popular Tarot Decks
The selection of a tarot deck is a key factor in the practice of tarot reading. Different decks provide unique perspectives and insights, influencing both the reader's intuition and the interpretation of spreads. Popular tarot decks often combine rich imagery and historical significance, making them appealing to both novice and experienced readers. This section explores several renowned tarot decks, including their distinctive features and symbolic depth. Each deck not only serves as a tool for divination but also as a medium for deeper personal connection and understanding.
Rider-Waite Tarot
Overview
The Rider-Waite Tarot is perhaps the most recognized tarot deck in the world. Created in 1909 by artist Pamela Colman Smith under the guidance of Arthur Edward Waite, this deck revolutionized tarot reading with its vividly illustrated imagery. Each card in the Major and Minor Arcana bears elaborate illustrations that tell a story, allowing users to draw intuitive insights from the visuals. This makes it a beneficial choice for this article, as its accessibility aids beginners in understanding tarot's complexities.
A key characteristic of the Rider-Waite Tarot is its inclusive symbolism. For example, the imagery in the card of The Fool represents new beginnings and spontaneity, resonating well with those seeking guidance on life decisions. However, the abundance of symbols can sometimes be overwhelming for new users.
Symbolism
In Rider-Waite Tarot, symbolism plays a critical role. Every card is rich with meaning, contributing to the depth of readings. The Sun card, for instance, signifies success and positivity, infusing readings with encouraging energies. Its benefit lies in the universal language of colors and symbols that resonate with various cultural backgrounds.
However, certain readers may find that the deck's specific symbols can lead to misinterpretation if one is not aware of the broader context of tarot divination. Understanding the intentions behind each image takes time, which may present a disadvantage for some.
Thoth Tarot
Overview
The Thoth Tarot deck, designed by Aleister Crowley and illustrated by Lady Frieda Harris, is another prominent choice among tarot enthusiasts. Created between 1938 and 1943, the Thoth deck focuses on a complex system of symbolism and esoteric meanings rooted deeply in astrology, numerology, and mysticism. Its key characteristic is a rich tapestry of colors and abstract art, which can be both alluring and intimidating.
The uniqueness of the Thoth Tarot lies in its emphasis on psychological elements. It provides an in-depth approach that benefits those exploring their inner selves. However, the intricate details can be less approachable for beginners, who might find it challenging to decipher at first glance.
Symbolism
Symbolism in the Thoth Tarot is intricately layered. The Wheel of Fortune card, for example, embodies the cyclical nature of fate and destiny. This expansive significance allows for broad interpretation, which can enhance the reading experience. Many find its esoteric nature beneficial for diving into deeper psychological insights.
Nonetheless, the complexity of its symbols may present a challenge without prior knowledge. As a result, some users may require extensive study to grasp the deck's full potential.
Marseille Tarot
Overview
The Marseille Tarot is one of the oldest tarot decks, dating back to the 16th century. Its origins in France give it a distinct historical significance. The Marseille deck is notable for its straightforward and somewhat minimalist style compared to its contemporaries. Each card is a clear representation of the archetypal meanings in tarot, making it a practical and beneficial choice for this discussion.
The simplicity of the Marseille Tarot's illustrations encourages readers to use intuition for interpretation. However, this can also be viewed as a disadvantage for those who prefer more elaborate imagery to aid their readings.
Symbolism
Marseille Tarot's symbolism is less overt than that of other decks. The Fool is depicted with less illustrative detail, leaving much to the reader's imagination. This lack of complexity can be both a blessing and a curse. Readers must rely on their personal interpretations and instinct, which can foster a deeper connection with the cards.
Yet, the abstraction might confuse some users, who may find it difficult to extract meaning without clear visual cues.
Modern and Themed Decks
Diverse Styles
Modern and themed tarot decks have surged in popularity, reflecting a wide array of artistic expressions and cultural influences. Decks like The Wild Unknown and Morgan-Greer offer innovative designs that cater to diverse audiences. This vast variety allows readers to choose a deck that resonates personally, enhancing their reading experience.
The benefit of modern decks is their ability to connect with contemporary themes and social issues, making tarot reading more relatable to today's demographics. However, with so many options available, discerning a deck's usability and depth may become overwhelming.
Cultural Significance
The cultural significance of modern tarot decks cannot be understated. Many creators draw from their heritage, striving to create decks that reflect their identity and narratives. This contributes to a richer spiritual practice and fosters a sense of community among users who feel represented.
Although these themed decks can be empowering, their specialized symbolism may not appeal universally. Readers must navigate personal bias while attempting to gain broader insights, which might limit their interpretations.
Symbolism in Tarot
Symbolism plays a crucial role in tarot as it bridges the gap between the intuitive and rational aspects of card reading. Each symbol on the cards carries layered meanings, enriching interpretations during readings. Understanding these symbols can significantly improve the connection between the reader and the cards. Moreover, symbolism often reflects the complexities of human experiences, making the cards not just mere tools, but profound messengers of insight.
Understanding Symbols
Symbols in tarot are not arbitrary. They derive from various traditions, including astrology, mythology, and psychology. Each card, whether from the Major or Minor Arcana, contains symbols that resonate with universal themes. For instance, the Fool card represents new beginnings and innocence. The imagery of a dog and a cliff reinforces the idea of spontaneity and the leap of faith.
To effectively harness the power of these symbols:
- Familiarity: Build a relationship with each card's imagery. The more you engage, the deeper your understanding becomes.
- Intuition: Allow personal interpretations to emerge. Symbols can evoke unique feelings and responses.
- Historical Context: Understanding the origin of symbols can provide layers of meaning, enhancing readings further.
"The true power of tarot lies in how one interprets the symbols. Each reading is a personal journey through the psyche."
Color and Imagery Significance
Color and imagery in tarot are significant because they evoke emotions and can guide interpretations. Colors have innate psychological effects that can affect how a reading is perceived. For example, red often indicates passion and action, while blue might evoke calm and introspection.
Imagery works hand-in-hand with color. The visual representation of emotions, situations, and archetypes creates a narrative that unfolds as cards are drawn. When interpreting cards:
- Analyze Colors: Recognize the dominant colors within card draws for deeper contextual understanding.
- Observe Imagery: Pay attention to the key elements depicted in the cards; even minute details can alter meanings.
- Engage with Emotion: Allow emotional responses to guide your reading. Personal feelings about certain colors or images can provide additional clarity.
Both symbols and their colors contribute immensely to the depth of tarot readings. By respecting and understanding these elements, practitioners can cultivate richer and more meaningful insights.
The Role of Intuition in Tarot Reading
Intuition is an essential aspect of tarot reading. It serves as an internal compass guiding the reader through the complex symbols and meanings presented by the cards. An individual can connect more deeply with both the cards and the querent through intuitive insights. This connection can lead to more relatable interpretations and profound reflections. Readers who master the art of using intuition often unlock a richer understanding of their readings, making the experience more valuable.
Developing Intuition
Developing intuition involves several steps. It is not an overnight transformation but a gradual process. Individuals can start by engaging in practices that hone their intuitive abilities. Meditation is one of the most common and effective methods. Regular meditation allows individuals to quiet their minds, enhancing their sensitivity to subtle feelings and insights that arise. Many practitioners recommend setting aside time each day for this focus.
Another technique is journaling. Keeping a tarot journal can help track feelings and thoughts associated with different cards. Over time, certain themes may emerge, leading to a stronger personal connection with the tarot. Additionally, using tarot cards as a tool for self-discovery encourages a deeper understanding of intuitions. Pulling a card daily and reflecting on its relevance in your life can spark personal insight.
Consider also engaging with practicing readings. Offering readings for friends or family helps develop a sense of how intuition plays a role in interpretations. This interaction fosters increased confidence and fluidity.
Connecting with the Cards
Connecting with the cards is integral to effective tarot reading. A significant part of this connection involves spending time with your chosen deck. Familiarity with the imagery and symbolism within the deck can enhance intuitive responses during readings.
Sit quietly with your cards, shuffle them, and allow your thoughts to center on their meanings. Consider their visuals, colors, and symbols. You can ask questions of the cards or even draw a few cards to explore your connections.
Creating personal associations with each card amplifies your insight. For example, instead of relying solely on traditional interpretations, explore what each card evokes within yourself. This may include personal experiences or feelings that emerge through contemplation. The process deepens your ability to relate to the cards in a personal way, which is vital for intuitive readings.
"Intuition reveals what the mind may overlook. Embracing it allows a unique reading experience."
Overall, intuition in tarot reading is not merely an innate ability but a skill that can be cultivated. Each reader’s relationship with their deck is unique, and understanding how to harness intuitive insights shapes more impactful readings.
Benefits of Using Good Tarot Cards
The exploration of tarot cards, particularly focusing on good decks, unveils a variety of advantages. These benefits extend beyond mere entertainment or mysticism. Good tarot cards can facilitate personal insight, enhance decision-making, and help individuals recognize patterns within their lives. As we engage deeper into this subject, it’s essential to consider how these advantages shape the overall experience of tarot users.
Personal Growth and Self-Reflection
Tarot cards serve as powerful tools for personal growth. They provide users with an opportunity for self-reflection. The art of handling tarot cards involves contemplating one’s thoughts, emotions, and life situations. When cards are drawn, they can reflect the inner workings of an individual’s psyche. For instance, a solitary card such as The Hermit may prompt thoughts about solitude, introspection, and the importance of personal space.
- Encourages Introspection: Each tarot reading often leads to deep reflections about personal aspirations and fears. This introspection can result in clarity regarding one's direction in life.
- Promotes Awareness: Through consistent engagement with tarot, a user can develop a better understanding of their emotional responses and behavioral mechanics.
- Stimulates Change: Recognizing areas in need of improvement fosters motivation for personal development.
Enhanced Decision Making
Good tarot cards also assist individuals in their decision-making processes. When someone is faced with uncertainty or a choice, consulting tarot can provide new perspectives. The imagery and symbolism within the cards enable users to consider their situation from various angles.
- Multi-dimensional Perspective: Drawing multiple cards allows one to explore different possible outcomes, ultimately leading to a more informed decision.
- Boosts Confidence: When individuals see their thoughts and questions reflected in the cards, it can validate their intuition and enhance their confidence to take decisive action.
- Mitigates Fear of Wrong Choices: By understanding possible scenarios through tarot, users may feel more secure even in the face of ambiguous choices.
Understanding Life Patterns
One notable benefit of using good tarot cards is the ability to recognize recurring patterns within one's life. Over time, users can track the symbolism and messages that frequently surface during readings. This tracking can provide significant insights into behavioral habits or recurring themes in their life.
- Identifying Trends: Frequent card draws may reveal trends, such as cycles of behavior that lead to specific outcomes. Recognizing these patterns can promote healthier decision-making.
- Clarifying Lessons: Many users find that tarot provides insights into lessons they may need to learn. For instance, if the same themes appear repeatedly, one may be prompted to address these lessons directly.
- Creating Awareness: Increased awareness of one’s life patterns can lead to transformative changes, fostering growth and improved emotional health.
The integration of tarot cards into daily life can bring about profound changes, encouraging both reflection and action toward personal goals.
Common Misconceptions About Tarot Cards
Understanding the common misconceptions about tarot cards is crucial for anyone interested in this domain. Misconceptions can lead to misunderstanding and distancing from the true essence of tarot. When people engage with tarot, they often bring in bits of folklore, and this can distort their perception. Clarifying these misconceptions enhances both personal experience and readings for others.
Tarot and Fortune Telling
Many individuals associate tarot cards with fortune telling. This belief often portrays tarot as a means to predict the future in a concrete manner. In reality, tarot serves more as a guide than a definitive prediction tool. The cards reflect current energies and situations rather than delivering absolute answers about what will happen. Each card drawn in a reading is a mirror reflecting the querent's life in that moment.
The idea of predicting the future can create a sense of pressure. Querents might expect tarot readers to provide them with certain forecasts. Instead, tarot should be viewed through a lens of exploration. The insights garnered from a reading can aid in understanding choices, feelings, and obstacles present in one's life. It is imperative to emphasize that these insights can inform decision making but not dictate future events. A reader's role is to facilitate self-reflection, not to dictate outcomes.
Misunderstanding Symbols and Meanings
Tarot cards are rich with symbolism and nuanced meanings. Many people assume that each card has a fixed interpretation. This oversimplifies the profound nature of tarot. The essence of each card can shift based on context, surrounding cards, and the reader's intuition. A card may symbolize different concepts in distinct readings. For example, the Death card often evokes fear of negativity. Yet, it can signify transformation and new beginnings in an appropriate context.
Also, individuals often overlook cultural influences on symbolism. Different decks may incorporate varying iconography based on their cultural backgrounds. Familiarity with these symbols enhances both the depth and breadth of tarot interpretations.
In summary, understanding misconceptions widens one's perspective on tarot. It encourages a more profound appreciation of its mechanisms rather than falling prey to oversimplified views. By diving deeper into these facets, readers can appreciate tarot as a dynamic tool for personal insight and exploration.
Practical Tips for Choosing Good Tarot Cards
Selecting the right tarot cards is a critical step in enhancing your readings. Each deck has its unique energy, aesthetics, and themes, which can deeply influence the interpretative process. By utilizing practical tips for choosing good tarot cards, practitioners can find decks that resonate personally and serve their reading style effectively. This section aims to highlight the various factors involved in making an informed choice, ensuring your tarot journey is enjoyable as well as insightful.
Assessing Your Needs
Before acquiring a new tarot deck, it is essential to assess your needs. Reflect on your current proficiency level. Are you a beginner looking for foundational understanding or an experienced reader seeking deeper symbolism? Consider what you hope to achieve with the deck. You might want a deck that enhances your intuition or is aesthetically pleasing to you. Identifying your purpose can significantly guide your selection process, leading you to decks that better serve your objectives.
Further, think about the types of readings you conduct. Are they general readings, focused on specific questions, or aimed at spiritual development? Each reading style can benefit from different kinds of decks. When you align the deck’s strengths with your needs, you increase your chances for meaningful readings and personal insights.
Exploring Decks in Person
Whenever possible, explore decks in person before making a purchase. Visiting a local metaphysical store or a bookshop that offers a variety of tarot decks allows you to engage with the cards directly. Handling the cards gives you a sense of their texture and size, which can affect your comfort during readings.
Moreover, examine the artwork close up. The visuals on the cards play a crucial role in intuitive reading. A deck with imagery that resonates on a personal level can significantly enhance your ability to connect with the cards. Pay attention to how the colors and symbols speak to you. If you feel drawn to a specific deck, this can be a great indicator of its potential effectiveness in your practice.
At the same time, don't hesitate to consult others who might have experience with specific decks. Their insights can provide additional context that helps inform your decision.
Reading Reviews and Feedback
In the digital age, online reviews are invaluable resources. When researching potential tarot decks, reading feedback from others can offer a wealth of information. Several platforms, such as Reddit, Facebook, and specialized tarot forums, allow users to share their experiences with various decks. Look for reviews that detail usability, interpretation ease, and the overall energy of the deck.
"Choosing the right tarot deck can transform your readings from mundane to extraordinary. Insights from fellow users on platforms like reddit.com can be especially enlightening."
Be cautious of trends and focus on genuine experiences. Look for decks praised for their depth of symbolism or artwork that inspires creativity. This way, you can discover options that suit your personal and professional needs without being influenced solely by popular opinion.
Ultimately, combining personal assessment with external resources will guide you to the right tarot deck, ensuring it resonates profoundly with your unique practice.
Learning to Read Tarot Cards
Learning to read tarot cards is a crucial aspect of embracing the full potential of this powerful divination tool. It allows individuals to interact with their tarot deck on a personal level, transforming random card pulls into meaningful insights and guidance. A functional understanding of the cards enhances the reader's ability to interpret situations accurately, making the tarot experience more fulfilling. This section will explore fundamental elements, benefits, and key considerations necessary for mastering tarot reading.
Basic Spreads
Understanding basic spreads is foundational for any reader. A tarot spread is a layout of cards drawn during a reading, each position having its own significance. Common spreads include the three-card spread, the Celtic Cross, and the single-card draw. Each of these spreads serves distinct purposes:
- Three-Card Spread: This layout can represent the past, present, and future or alternative outcomes for a situation. It offers a concise overview and is ideal for quick readings.
- Celtic Cross: This is a comprehensive spread, providing a detailed view of a situation or question. It examines various aspects, including challenges and external influences.
- Single-Card Draw: This simplest approach focuses on one card, ideal for reflecting on a day or gaining insights into a specific question.
For any reader, familiarizing oneself with these basic spreads is a stepping stone towards deeper exploration of tarot reading. When beginning, it can be beneficial to keep a tarot journal to track insights and interpretations. Collecting data over time enriches understanding of personal card meanings.
Interpreting Card Meanings
Interpreting card meanings is central to effective tarot reading. Each card in the deck, whether from the Major Arcana or Minor Arcana, carries its own symbolism and significance. Traditional interpretations provide a starting point, but personal reflection is equally vital.
Here are some strategies to enhance card interpretation:
- Study the Imagery: Each card presents a unique visual narrative. Exploring the colors, symbols, and figures within the artwork can reveal additional layers of meaning.
- Consider Card Relationships: The context of surrounding cards can alter a single card's meaning. Assess their interplay and flow during readings.
- Trust Intuition: Developing intuition is key. Readers should listen to their inner voice, which often provides personal insights beyond textbook meanings.
"The depth of tarot reading lies not just in the cards themselves but also in the connections the reader builds with them."
Ultimately, mastering the art of reading tarot is an ongoing journey. With practice and reflection, individuals can cultivate a profound connection with their cards, leading to greater insight into themselves and the world around them. This connection is pivotal, as it fosters the interplay between the reader, the cards, and the questions posed.
Culmination
The conclusion of this article emphasizes the significance of good tarot cards and their multi-dimensional role in both readings and personal growth. This discussion synthesizes the various elements covered throughout the article, such as the criteria for good cards, popular decks, and the intrinsic symbolism present in tarot. Understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone looking to integrate tarot into their life.
Summary of Key Points
Throughout the article, we explored a range of topics related to good tarot cards. Key points include:
- The definition and history of tarot cards that provide context.
- Criteria for selecting good tarot cards, focusing on intuitive resonance, artistic design, and usability.
- Popular tarot decks, such as Rider-Waite and Thoth, including their unique symbols and meanings.
- The importance of symbolism in tarot and how it enhances readings.
- Practical tips for choosing the right deck that fits individual needs.
- The benefits such as personal growth, enhanced decision-making, and understanding life patterns.
These points contribute to a comprehensive understanding of how good tarot cards can serve as effective tools for divination and self-discovery.
Encouragement to Explore Tarot
As we conclude, there is a strong encouragement to explore tarot further. Each deck offers a unique perspective, and engaging with different cards can deepen one's understanding of oneself and the world. Whether one is new to tarot or has experience, there is always more to learn.
Incorporating tarot into daily life can provide insights that are not readily available through other means. Take time to reflect upon one’s experiences with various decks, delve into the meanings behind the cards, and develop a personal connection.
By actively engaging with tarot, you may discover new dimensions of consciousness, prompting personal evolution and greater self-awareness. It is a journey worth embarking on.
