Emotional Time-out

From the Tarot de St. Croix, the Four of Cups, and from the Archetype Cards, the Rescuer:

Often the Four of Cups represents apathy or burnout, but the cormorants on the shore drying their wings make me think otherwise. These aquatic birds don't float like ducks, but sink into the water with just their necks sticking out. Without waterproof feathers, they must spend time drying out. Which is why this card feels like "too much of a good thing" - this guy needs an emotional time-out. Adding the Rescuer card to the mix gives the Four card an interesting twist. Have you ever put yourself out there for someone else, but then received no thanks for your effort? Even if we say we don't expect it (especially from some folks), it still stings like salt in a cut. No need to get in a self-righteous snit though; I just need to get out of the water and dry off.