Compassion without Co-dependency

From the Llewellyn Tarot, the King of Cups; from the Beasts of Albion, the Dolphin:

          This king rules and guides with unconditional love, which is a good thing since his job is similar to running a customer service counter. Have you ever seen someone who stopped by a store's customer service department who was happy and just wanted to say what a great job they were doing? No, they're usually frustrated and impatient on good days and irate and hostile on the worst. Yet the King of Cups is known for his composure; he may keep his heart open and empathetic, but he doesn't get caught up in any emotional nets cast out. He remains compassionate without becoming co-dependent because he doesn't treat other people as an extension of himself. He's not concerned with pleasing other people or getting their approval, but genuinely caring for them without any emotional clinging. Sometimes that kind of care can send them stomping off in a huff. The Dolphin shows up to remind the king that while having deep feelings for others is a worthy endeavor, he needs to maintain his own emotional balance by coming up for air (with a few playful moves for good measure). Throw off that robe and get on your swim trunks, Your Highness; it's time to go parasailing.