A Bigger Container

From the Animal Totem Tarot, the Beaver/King of Cups; from the Blum/Gern Rune Cards, Perth:

The Beaver's message is that what we build with our skills can literally change the landscape around us. In the King of Cups' case, his ability to listen with compassion and offer wise counsel without getting emotionally tangled helps those around him live more peaceably. Just as one angry person can incite a mob, so one calm person can promote composure and clarity in others. Yet Perth is a rune that suggests a dice box from which lots were cast. It is a reminder that although wise choice and skills can help create a better future, there are many external causes and conditions over which we have no control. But isn't that where this King's talents really shine, when the unexpected is faced? What we build and sustain through spiritual practice is what can aid us in staying grounded and calm until the storm passes.

As our faith deepens, the 'container' in which fear arises gets bigger. Like a teaspoonful of salt placed in a pond full of fresh water rather than in a narrow glass, if our measure of fear is arising in an open, vast space of heart, we will not shut down around it. We may still recognize it as fear, we may still quake inside, but it will not break our spirit.

—Sharon Salzberg