I’ve never thought of Readers as artists but I like it

Blessings

Lyn

As a tarot reader who reads professionally, that is, I charge money for my readings, of course I would agree. I think tarot is often seen as a game, a frivolity, not to be taken seriously. And yet, even if viewed in that way, because I see nothing inherently wrong with taking a lighter view of tarot reading, it is still providing entertainment. One expects to pay a fee to play a game in the public arena, say at a carnival or fair. The reader is giving you something in return for your money, be it entertainment or enlightenment. When one books entertainment at a social event, such as a juggler, a musician, or a tarot reader, that entertainer is paid for their time and effort.

If we make comparisons to other healers, we may run into some sticky areas. Tarot reading has a long historical tradition of the practicioner being self-taught and enhanced by natural giftedness. While there are organizations that can certify tarot readers, the skill and value of a tarot reader’s abilities are difficult to measure as they are very subjective. I would sooner compare the abilities of a tarot reader to that of an artist, for when I look for a piece of art to purchase, I don’t care one whit if the artist was classically trained, went to art school or not. However, I would feel less confident if a doctor told me he never went to school but his healing abilities were passed down to him by his great-grandmother.

In any case, yes, tarot readers are providing a service and they deserve to be compensated for their time and effort. Most readers have spent years studying and practicing and honing their skills. Give them their due.