The Two -Path Spread: For When You Need to Make a Decision

With special thanks to wheresmytower.wordpress.com!

The Two-Path Spread is a very useful spread, especially if you are indecisive or anxious.  It cannot help you with little decisions, such as whether to choose between the sticky toffee pudding or the chocolate covered strawberries (that's a win-win situation anyway).

Above is a picture of a two-path spread, using Robin Wood's Deck.  The querent is wondering whether to stay in his current location, or move.    

The first card you place, the single card on the left, is where the querent is right now.  In this case, it is the Two of Cups. 

A major factor in the querent's decision is the fact that his fianceé lives in the state he will be moving to.  He has been lonely without her, but the relationship is very strong.  Also, after some tension in other areas of the querent's life, things have finally reached a place of peace and harmony. 

Next, lay down three cards.  These three cards represent what will happen if one course of action is chosen. The first card is the positive outcome from the action.  In this case, it is the Eight of Pentacles. If the querent chooses to move, there will be an opportunity to learn and grow, and find meaningful work.  He will learn practical life skills. 

The second card from the left is the negative aspect of the choice. Here, it is the Page of Pentacles.  The negative side, or "con" of this decision to move will be that he will feel very young and inexperienced (and the querent is young), even naive, especially in regards to finances and the practical aspects of living.  However, he will be a quick study about these matters.  

The third card in the row is the final outcome. This is the the Hanged Man. The querent, if he chooses to move, will have to make some sacrifices. His eyes will be opened to the real world, and what he can do in it.  It will be a real coming of age. It might not be too comfortable, but he will not be the same. 

The second row represents the second choice. In this case, it is choosing to stay. 

The querent had moved to his current home fairly recently.  Since he had been there, he had found creative inspiration and motivation, and he was in love with the area's beauty.  It makes sense that these trends would continue, as seen by the presence of the King of Cups in the positive "pro" position. 

On the negative side, he would feel a restlessness and impatience. This is represented by the Three of Wands in the negative "con" position.  

The negativity is belied by the final outcome of the Four of Wands.  If he stays in his current home, there will be cause for celebration. There will be a reward--his wedding will happen, and it will be all the sweeter for the waiting for the right moment. Also, the time he has spent honing his creative craft will be fruitful.  

In summation: 

Card Number 1: The inquirer at present, the situation at hand.  

Row 1: The First Choice 

Card Number 2: The Positive side of the choice 

Card Number 3: The Negative side of the choice 

Card Number 4: The Final Outcome 

Row 2: The Second Choice 

Card Number 5: The Positive 

Card Number 6: The Negative 

Card Number 7: the Final Outcome