I used to do tarot readings somewhat regularly when I was in my early 20's. My aunt had always studied astrology, tarot, crystals, etc. She passed that interest onto me when I was a kid and got me a deck later on.
Those close to 20 years ago, I felt pretty confident with my readings and the intuition I had going into them.
I just did my first reading since then and boy, was I way off! I couldn't remember the card meanings, so I looked them up after putting down my initial interpretation. Pretty much a complete opposite translation.
It wasn't a disappointment though and it made much more sense. I think the lesson for me from this experience is that life between then and now has changed me a lot spiritually. My mind and soul have a lot more focus on material and societal goals. When I was younger, I didn't have any expectational (made up word) to not explore and open myself up.
I'm not saying it's too late at all. I am saying that this is where I am and I acknowledge the work that I need to do to improve and truly grow spiritually, magickally, and emotionally.
If we do not use our gifts for some time, we often become rusted. But that doesn't mean we can't revive our gifts. You can always relearn the meanings of each card. You can always practice as often as possible. My skills in tarot improved by practice. I be delighted to assist you if you want. Blessed be.
There is never anything wrong with having to re-learn something. We all forget, even something we are passionate about.
I'm sure you will easily relearn the card's meanings, but don't stress too much about it. And its ok to not beexactly accurate to the book (though following the book does help quite a bit).Let your intuition guide you some as you learn. That way you'll grow in both your readings by the book as well as by feeling. It's somethinf I still struggle with and once you find yourself using the terms only, you somewhat lose touch of what the cards are actually saying. Sure the High Priestess card may be telling you to listen to yoursubconscious mind, but she might also be illuding to your High Priestess, a mother figure, a intuitive decission, a path you are missing out on, etc. Maybe to you the High Priestess reminds you of your faith more than your intuition. It all depends on how you decide to read the cards. The book can only get you so far in a reading. The rest is you.
I'm glad you're so positive about this situation. It's a skill to be able to take a step back and see the posssiblity to improve when you mess up.
