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Text by Stephanie Clement


Elemental Cross

Elemental Cross

This reading is good for establishing where you are in the timing of a situation. Runes one through three represent the past, present and future. Position four offers some advice about how to proceed, and position five speaks to certain limitations in the situation.


1. Past

Position one addresses the past, relative to your question. It shows what has led to to your present state of mind.
Ur

Ur / wild ox

Whereas cattle are domesticated animals, the ox is wild. This rune indicates that physical strength is a factor in your reading. Associated masculine qualities include vigor, determination, vitality and grit. These qualities are clearly not restricted to the males of the race; in a woman’s reading they represent strength used in a directed, assertive manner. Physical skill and training are important focuses in your reading.



2. Present

This rune is for the present. In addition, rune 2 can represent your present STATE OF MIND,
Ur

Ur / wild ox

Whereas cattle are domesticated animals, the ox is wild. This rune indicates that physical strength is a factor in your reading. Associated masculine qualities include vigor, determination, vitality and grit. These qualities are clearly not restricted to the males of the race; in a woman’s reading they represent strength used in a directed, assertive manner. Physical skill and training are important focuses in your reading.



3. Future

Rune three looks into the future. It says something about the RESULT.
Man

Man / man

MAN is the rune for mankind, and reminds you that your associations with others are important at this time. Seek help with important decisions from people whose opinions you respect in the area of your question. This is not a co-dependent sort of leaning on others; rather it indicates the healthy cooperative relationships we all value. Look also to your own areas of expertise.



4. Assistance

Rune four tells you what kind of help you can expect in regard to your question. It can relate to other people, circumstance, or to your own efforts.
Sygel

Sygel / sun

The basic meaning of SYGEL is victory. Thus its appearance in a reading, particularly in the "results" position, is indicative of success. The successful person is one who works hard and plays hard as well. Thus if there is any health concern, take this rune as an indicator of the need for relaxation from the daily grind.



5. What you cannot change

Rune five tells you what cannot be changed about the situation. You can evaluate what this rune says in order to formulate a method for acceptance, but do not seek to change this rune's meaning.
Beorc

Beorc / birch tree

BEORC is the birch tree, associated with fertility rites and pagan ritual. The rune indicates expansion wherever it is found. It also is involved in the rituals which surround family and community. It may indicate pregnancy, birth or mother child relationships on a literal plane, or more figuratively, the inception of an idea. There will be cause to celebrate.