Previously, the message of the 5 of Swords was one of conflict and its aftermath, the immediate fallout of an unhealthy or toxic situation. Now, however, with the 6 of Swords, we see you actually making the move away from that situation or whatever has transpired. You are leaving behind a place of grief or pain, or even one of extreme confusion, and moving on to a better place that will feel like a safehaven after such difficult times.

Therefore, the main message of the 6 of Swords is to focus on what is ahead, and not on what is behind you. The figures in this card—who appear to be mother and child—are sailing into the distance, but they are carrying their six swords with them, showing that they still possess what matters, and have not lost their integrity or values in the process. Notice, also, that they are being guided by a ferryman; with someone is guiding their boat, and in turn you may have someone guiding you on your journey. It may not be easy, but you are not alone from the look of things.

In a romantic reading, someone may be asking you to run away with them, so to speak, to take part in a relationship that could require you leaving behind a lot of your old life, but even if the change itself is uncomfortable, that does not mean you won’t love the results. Remember also that the swords represent our thoughts and ideas, so there is the underlying message that you are moving from one place of thinking to another, and leaving unhealthy thoughts behind while accepting that some swords are part of your journey as well.