I’ve done two in-depth tarot readings to help me think through my decision to return to the United States. The questions I asked were:
“What do I need to know about returning to the U.S. permanently?”
“What do I need to know about leaving Israel?”
Both readings provided valuable insights, but as I reflect on them, I realize something important—both questions were framed around the assumption that I’m leaving. They didn’t leave room for the possibility that staying in Israel could be the right choice. And yet, after eight years of wanting to leave, I’m still here.
This makes me think that perhaps there’s more to explore. If I’m truly going to make a thoughtful and grounded decision, I need to consider the possibility of staying, not just the desire to go. I’ve come up with a new set of questions to guide me in this process.
Questions to Ask Myself:
1. "What do I need to know about staying in Israel?"
This keeps the question open-ended, without assuming that leaving is the inevitable outcome. It invites the cards to show me possibilities I may not be seeing.
2. "What potential for growth and stability exists for me in Israel?"
Even when everything feels impossible, maybe there’s something that can be built. This question asks not whether I should stay, but whether there’s growth waiting for me here if I’m willing to look for it.
3. "How can I create a fulfilling and secure life in Israel?"
This is an empowering question. It shifts the focus from what’s missing to what actions or mindsets I could adopt to thrive, even in challenging circumstances.
4. "What is the deeper meaning of my connection to Israel?"
This question feels particularly important. There’s something about this country that has kept me here for so long, even when I wanted to leave. The town of Katzrin, in particular, feels profoundly like home when I visit. Why is that? What is Israel trying to teach me before I go? Is there something I need to understand before making this decision?
5. "What would staying in Israel teach me about myself and my path?"
This question allows for spiritual insight. It’s not just about external factors like work or finances, but about what lessons I might gain from staying. If I stay, what could I learn? What could I discover about myself?
Why These Questions Matter
It’s easy to get caught in the trap of believing that change lies somewhere else, in a different place or a different country. But change doesn’t always come from leaving. Sometimes it comes from staying, from looking at what’s right in front of us with fresh eyes. I don’t know yet whether staying in Israel is the right choice, but these questions feel like a step toward understanding what that choice really means.
The decision to stay or leave is about more than logistics. It’s about meaning, growth, and what feels like home. I’m hoping these questions—whether through tarot or quiet reflection—will guide me toward the answer that’s truly right for me.
