Skillr Profile: Sasha Nebraska

Sasha Nebraska is a tarot reader on the SKILLR App. They spoke with us about how a trip to Spencer’s as a teen sparked their curiosity for spirituality, overcoming fear of judgment and what they’re learning about right now. 

Q: Can you tell me your name and pronouns and what you do on SKILLR?

A: I go by Sasha Nebraska and use any pronouns. Most often I use she/they because that is what people see. I consider myself non-binary and am so grateful for the LGBTQ+ community in helping me feel like my true self. Growing up in small town America, I often felt different than others but did not know what it meant until it was introduced to me. After doing some extensive research and reading the Gender Dysphoria Bible (I recommend checking it out for literally anyone who wants to learn more), I finally began to make sense of where I fit in. It also broadens my eyes to what true acceptance means.

On SKILLR, I do tarot readings. They can be short and to the point or long and allow for more exploration into life. They can address problems and give general direction for people who don't know where to start.

Q: How did you get into your field?

A: When I was a kid, I frequented the local Spencer's, as every teenager did while wandering through the mall. The sections were a bit different then and there was a section for spiritual practice, mostly leaning towards various forms of witchcraft. I was completely intrigued and eager to be a part of a group that could gain some control over their world. My friends and I would get together and play with our Ouija board and attempt seances until we scared ourselves enough to quit. They grew out of the idea of a magical side of the world, but I did not. Eventually, I bought my first tarot deck from a bookstore. I still use the same deck today.

Q: Where did your passion for tarot come from?

A: When I first started tarot, it was for myself. I did readings and it felt more like exploration. I had tried many different forms of divination and still dabble somewhat today. Tarot felt right. It stuck with me because when I would ask a question and lay out the cards, answers would appear. The more I used the cards, the more easily the answers came. Since I was able to find comfort and direction within the use of the cards, I decided to start sharing. First with close friends and family and then in joining a spiritual group before branching out on my own to give readings to clients.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about teaching people about tarot and spirituality?

A: There is a power in spirit. When we connect to our true selves and the energy that is within and around us, the world just starts to settle in right. My favorite is when someone wants a reading and doesn't expect much, but they open themselves up. They decide to trust in the process and then something magical happens. They might hear the words from the spirit world that they needed in order to make something right within themselves. After that, they allow themselves to be present with spirit and listen for themselves. Their spirit grows and their world starts to change for them.

Q: What does a typical day look like in your profession?

A: Typically, I work within my Discord channel. Sometimes I stream, with SKILLR or with people who contact me directly. I usually get one of two types of calls. One is the new person who is ready to see what it's all about. With this person, my hope is that they have the time to work with me because a first time is much better with a full reading and time for additional questions. The next is the person who has a question or is looking for general advice. They might be stuck and not know where to turn so they are looking to connect with spirit and get a little bump in the right direction. For those calls or meetings, we put out the question and look to the cards for the answers. I spend most of my day connected with spirit so I can jump into a reading quickly, but there is some preparation, such as meditation and channeling.

Q: What do you normally discuss on a Skillr call?

A: Some Seekrs want to explore and learn what tarot is. For them, I typically do a general reading. That allows for the spirit to send a message of general advice. Others know exactly what question they want the answer to. Typically it's about work or love. People want to make sure they’re making the right career choices and they most definitely want to know if that person likes them back in the same way. We spend some time connecting our energy and then I lay out the cards. As I read the cards, the answers come and the spirits flow with the information they want the person to hear.

Q: What’s one thing you want Seekrs to know about you?

A: I truly believe in the connection we all have. While life isn't perfect and we have many different beliefs, I know there is good in everyone. We are all trying to do our best. I seek that goodness and connection every chance I can.

Q: What are some common challenges people run into when starting tarot or other spiritual practices?

A: Trust and fear. Whether it be because of a previously established religion or of upsetting the gods, there is often fear that things can go wrong or won't work at all. There are also an abundance of people and establishments who will tell you that there is a right way and wrong way of doing things. It's more important to trust in the direction and path that has been set before you.

Q: Complete the phrase: When I’m not working as a tarot card reader, I’m…

A: ...learning or teaching. I currently teach world history and religion. I am determined to do my best to represent all people and beliefs while doing so. That takes a lot of research into the many stories that exist in order to paint the pictures of our ancestors. I also love to learn about different cultures so language learning has been my newest project.

Q: On SKILLR, we’re all about learning and growing and taking small steps to gain new knowledge and skills. What’s one thing you’re learning about or interested in learning more about right now?

A: (Ahhhh, I guess I already answered this one!) Right now I am learning French, which I have studied before. And learning Arabic, which I have never studied before. I wanted to surprise an Arabic-speaking friend but I ended up letting the cat out of the bag already. I love learning about people, about cultures, about traditions and everything that makes people who they are. As a matter of fact, I will be traveling to Iceland very soon. My favorite vacations are to dive in and see what the locals are doing. I like to find out what a typical day would be, learn about pastimes, and celebrations. I hope to make many more friends because that is the best way to learn about how other cultures live.

Q: What would you say to people who want to learn more about tarot, witchcraft and spirituality but are nervous or confused about where to get started?

A: There are many resources that can be utilized privately. My biggest fear when I began practicing was that a "normal" person would find out and think I was crazy or laughable. I assume that is what others are feeling. There are numerous streamers, YouTube channels, books, blogs and Skillrs who can provide information. Don't get lost in it. Follow where your interest lies. For as many times as I tried, I never could use a pendulum. I respect people who can but it is not my way to communicate with energy and spirit. Your way will find you.

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