Strength, reversed

The Strength card shows a woman playing with a lion - she has it under her command.  The lion's tale is between its legs and has a happy look on its face.

In the reversed position, the tables are turned on you - you're not in a position of strength or advantage.  This isn't necessarily a bad thing.  Watch the situation closely - if the person who is in command or the lead is open to suggestion then offer words of wisdom based on your past experience.  This can build trust and camaraderie and you might find yourself back in a place of influence once again..

If, however, the person in charge has their own agenda and isn't concerned about the rest of the team or will not take advice from others, then do what you can to minimize the affect of the fall out on you and on others.  Once the dust settles, others will see your proactiveness and possibly reward you for it.

10 of Wands, reversed

The 10 of Wands shows us a person carrying a big load - he's determined and is focused on moving the load to the proper place.  The reverse of this card could mean lack of focus or determination.

You may have found yourself in a place where things are easier now because of new opportunity - but because things are easier now this isn't a time to become at ease.  Now, more than ever, you need that same focus, drive, and determination that brought you to this point.  The obstacles are there, you may not have found them yet.  This might be a good time to consult with a more experienced person to find out what obstacles or cycles might lie ahead.

Temperance

Temperance is a card that shows an arch angel combining the contents of two separate cups into one, a union is taking place.  Another common meaning this card has is bringing things into balance.  In either case, sometimes in life we need the opportunity to experience something new - this gives depth to our life and a new set of circumstances to relate to, hopefully for the better.

The plants near the waters edge represent vitality and growth.

The path leading from the waters edge to the mountains represent the path of life each of us travels. We grow as people, learn from experience, and take on new challenges.

I think this card also represents intuition.  The circle on the archangels forehead is like a third eye.  Skill and experience are needed when trying to commingle to different individuals or parties to come to a common ground or understanding.  Wisdom, still, and finesse are required to achieve a positive resolution.

The Emperor

The Emperor is a man in high position - he arrived at his place of prominence because he was strong willed, had great determination, learned from experience - both good and bad.  He's very patient, he's waiting to see how events will unfold, however he can step in at a moments notice and influence the situation.

A quiet, still stream runs behind the Emperor, symbolizing his emotional state - calm, watchful, at peace, confident in his ability to lead and take charge when necessary.

His beard is grey - his wisdom has deep meaning and knows that every situation doesn't require brute force or a sword for a resolution to come about.  He wears armor and is not afraid of going into battle however he is also adorned in red cloth, indicating to us that he can have a softer, gentler side, perhaps even be a negotiator.  The Emperor knows which battles are worth fighting.

The staff or cross the Emperor holds is a symbol for balance, reminding us that we we need to look at all sides of a situation, not be quick to judge, put ourselves into someone else's shoes and attempt to see the other person's point of view.