The number 10 indicates that something is over but not finished and about to begin again - completion and perfection.  Cups are associated with love, happiness, relationships, dreams and the emotional pleasures of life.  Traditionally the 10 of Cups symbolizes tranquility, happy family life and achievement of dreams, emotional fulfillment, contentment. 

My first reaction at seeing the Minute 10 of Cups was the song "Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy" from Ren & Stimpy.  The rainbow pouring forth from the 10 cups on the Minute Tarot reminds me of hope and joy springing forth.  We have reached the end of an emotional journey and now is the time to celebrate.  On the Guardian 10 of cups it is slightly more somber, darker image but there is still a sense of reaching the end of an emotional journey.  The 10 cups in the dark sky in front of the winged figure form a rainbow shape, even if they are all one color.  So even if this card does not represent the exuberant, bright joy of the Minute Tarot, it does reflect the joy we find at reaching the end of the road. 

When I was looking at the images on the Guardian Tarot the other day I realized that it reminded me of the movie The Prophecy.  The Prophecy (and its sequels) focuses on a war in heaven between the angels.  In the movie the angel Gabriel wages war on humans to get revenge on God.  He is opposed by "good" angels led by Simon (Eric Stolz).  Both angels are in pursuit of the most "evil" human soul alive.  Something about the imagery and feel of the Guardian Tarot reminds me of these movies.  There is hope present but it is often almost overwhelmed by the darkness surrounding the winged figures.

So that made me consider why I am so drawn to this type of imagery.  I like the brightness and cheeriness of the Minute Tarot but if I had to chose only one of these decks it would be the Guardian.  There has always been something in my nature that is drawn to the dark side.  In my study of psychology I was more drawn to the forensic end - the criminals.  I think part of my attraction is the belief that if I can understand this darkness I can actually overcome it.  If I understand what makes serial killers tick then I can avoid them.  This may be complete illusion but I know that it is part of the reason.

But what in my life could connect with the 10 of Cups?  Quite frankly everything.  Despite some rough times at work, I am still happy.  Yes there might be some dark times ahead as I look for another job, but I'm not in danger of losing my current job (at least not that I'm aware).  So as frightening and dark as things may sometimes seem, I do think there is ultimately a joyful ending to this journey.  Perhaps I will find that rainbow and the reward at its end.  I just need to believe in myself and keep the faith with my own heart.  I need to know that I will find a position that will bring joy and fulfillment back into my life.  I can't give up too easily.  The last time I did this my heart wasn't really into it and it was easy for me to convince myself that I was still happy at this agency.  Now I know better.  I may be satisfied, but I'm not happy; the joy just isn't there anymore.  I need to recapture that joy and unleash a rainbow in my life - at least as far as my career goes.