Emotional Anchors

From the Sasuraibito Tarot, the King of Cups; from the Soul Cards, Structural Support:

          I can just imagine this elder fellow inviting me to sit in a rocker on his porch while pouring me a cup of tea or coffee. He projects the kind of calm and centeredness that can be an anchor to people who are emotionally upset. Studies have shown that a tranquil environment is helpful in finding our emotional balance. The Structural Support card implies that the kind of people we lean on in challenging  times can make a big difference. Folks who have the most beneficial effects are not fixers but who willingly bear witness to our pain, listen attentively, and respond with tender honesty and kindness. They tend to say things like:

• You're not alone. I'm here for you.
• How can I help?
• Your feelings are valid.
• This is a process that may take some time, but it won't last forever.

While they might not offer instant solutions, their peaceful presence and faithful friendship can provide the ballast needed to sail through rough seas.

The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing…not healing, not curing…that is a friend who cares. — Henri Nouwen