Balance and Dedication

From the Whimsical Tarot, the Two of Cups; from the Over the Moon Oracle, Doctor:

          The children's story of "The Owl and the Pussycat" represents the Two of Cups, and it reminded me of how different my friends and partners are from myself in many cases. Of course we share some common values (both the owl and cat are meat eaters), but the way we go about doing things and the lens we use to view situations is often very different. Yet my weaknesses are usually the strengths I find in the people I care about, and vice versa. Our relationship brings a balance that might not have existed otherwise. The Doctor, slogging through knee-deep water, reminds me of the line in Robert Frost's poem: "But I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep." I've always imagined Frost's night traveler as a country doctor making visits to people who need his care. His profession requires deep commitment and dedication, much like what is needed to sustain a healthy relationship. The good doctor's oath of "do no harm" is just as important in relationships. Self-absorption is what will sink that little boat, while compassion is what will keep it afloat.

A Different Perspective

From the Fey Tarot, the Wheel of Fortune; from the I Misteri della Sibilla, "Doctor:"

          Two fey women play with animal figures among a spiral made of blocks. The younger one concentrates more on the inner core of the spiral, while the older woman stays on the outer rim. The use of a spiral instead of a circle suggests that as we follow the course of life, we can learn through our mistakes and successes. Coming back full circle seems more like repeating the same pattern over and over again. But on the spiral, even though it too cycles around, its arc is further out. This use of this figure implies having a different perspective (created from a wider experience) than the first time around.
          The Doctor in Sibilla decks represents a professional. When we run into a brick wall and have no answers, we want a problem solver or person whose knowledge is more complete than our own. Paired with the Wheel above, I can see how the older woman could help the younger through the wisdom of her maturity. I know I have wasted time and energy doggedly trying to work something out for myself. Pride stubbornly kept me from taking advantage of one of the greatest resources I have available - the insights of others.