Explore December’s Astrology and Prepare for 2025 with This 12-Card Tarot Spread
December 2024 carries a palpable unease.
Mercury retrograde and other planetary alignments create turbulence, from transportation delays to water-related issues — be it contaminated supplies, storms, or access challenges. Leadership is under pressure, and the tech industry faces uncertainty, with unusual economic developments keeping us on edge.
Amid this chaos, the Winter Solstice on December 21 reminds us to honor stillness and embrace the turning of the seasons. As the month closes, the New Moon in Capricorn on December 30 invites us to end the year with a focus on new beginnings. The ritual of creating New Year’s resolutions will be more an exercise in hope than a collection of empty promises to yourself.
This month’s energies call for mutual aid, community support, and reflection. It’s not about going it alone but finding collective strength and connection at life’s pivotal moments. Inspired by these themes, I’ve created the Crossroads of Intention Tarot Spread to help you navigate decisions, connect with your community, and plant seeds for the new year.
The Symbol of the Crossroads
The crossroads is a timeless image of transition, decision-making, and opportunity. It symbolizes the pause before choosing a direction — do we stay in the comfort of what we know or step boldly into the unknown?
If you’re in the United States, you know that we’re at a crossroads. This month, we stand at the center of a “before” and “after.” It’s a time to prepare and brace ourselves for what’s to come.
This tarot spread reflects the shape of a cross, guiding you through both the personal and collective dynamics of this moment.
The Layout and Its Meaning
This 12-card spread is divided into two axes:
The Vertical Axis: Your Core Path and Inner Alignment
This axis focuses on your inner world — your current state, lessons from the past, and future intentions.
Card 1: The Present Moment
Where are you standing at this crossroads? This card reflects the energy shaping your decisions right now.
Card 2: The Root of the Crossroads
What underlying issue or belief is influencing this moment? This card connects to deep motivations or challenges.
Card 4: The Higher Perspective
What guiding insight should shape your path forward? This card invites you to consider spiritual and long-term goals.
Card 11: The Lesson of the Year
What has 2024 taught you? Reflect on the wisdom gained from a year of challenges and change.
Card 12: The Seed for the Future
What should you nurture as we enter 2025? This card represents the intention to plant and grow in the year ahead.
The Horizontal Axis: Options, Influences, and Navigation
This axis explores external forces, options, and influences in your decision-making.
Card 3: The Left Path (Comfort Zone)
What happens if you stay where you are? This card highlights the pros and cons of sticking with the familiar.
Card 5: The Right Path (The Unknown)
What happens if you take a leap of faith? This card reveals the potential and risks of change.
Card 6: The Voice of the Past
What past experience or pattern is influencing this decision? This card reflects on how your history shapes your present.
Card 7: The Voice of the Future
What potential does this decision hold for your future? This card offers insight into the long-term impact of your choices.
Card 9: External Challenges
What external obstacles must you navigate? This card identifies pressures, delays, or systemic challenges affecting your path.
Card 10: External Support
What allies or opportunities can help you move forward? This card highlights resources and collective support.
December’s Call to Action
In a month of unpredictability, your power lies in connection and intention. Use this spread to navigate the crossroads of your life and reflect on how you can support and be supported by your community. December asks us to focus less on personal ambition and more on mutual aid, collective strength, and new beginnings.
As the New Moon in Capricorn closes the month, consider how your choices align with long-term goals — not just for yourself, but for the greater good. Let’s move forward together, one step at a time.
Thank you for making it this far. If you use this tarot spread, share your spread on Instagram or TikTok and tag @gemblackthorn. I have a new download available: What every tarot card means in a money reading. Perfect for tarot readings regarding business, workplace, or personal finances (for entertainment purposes only, obviously).
If you enjoyed this post, subscribe to my newsletter for more esoteric content, or consider showing your support by buying me a coffee. If you’re a writer, download 300+ writing prompts inspired by the Tarot. If you’re a witch, access my Book of Shadows Notion Template here.