Gently Holding Hearts

This week I'll be using Songs for the Journey Home, a deck and book set created and self-published by Catherine Cook and Dwariko von Sommaruga. I'll also be using the Raven Cards, an oracle created by Gabi Bucker and published by AG Muller. Today's draws are Wave Resolving (King of Cups) and "Share Out:"

          What a comforting image from the SJH deck! The creators write: "This image represents mature love. The arms gently encircling the sea to create a tranquil harbour symbolise the ability to lovingly enfold another without grasping or possessiveness. There is no attempt to change the beloved." For the past several days (and weeks), I've experienced the powerlessness of being unable to change painful situations for those I love. All I can do is make a safe space for them, a refuge where they can fully express what they feel without me running away or trying to fix what can't be resolved. The Raven Card talks about too much ballast - in nautical language, heavy material used to steady a ship. By staying grounded myself, I can share that steadiness with another. I can be an anchor as they deal with the rough waves of life.
          Last Friday at meditation, I did a (Westernized) version of tonglen with the group. Because today's cards made me think of this meditation, I thought I would share it with those who might be interested in this heart-opening practice: