Courting the maiden

[APeacefulWarrior]

Courting means doting upon that which you love and giving it attention simply because you love it. And within the archetypes, it's about two entities unifying and becoming a whole that is greater than the sum of their parts - not changing (except by that inward desire that one wants to be a better person when they find the person they love that stirs them within). There is no giving up of the self, except in ways that pleases the self, because changing for the person you are trying to "court" is so easy, so natural. And within card, his arms are crossed and he is bound by holding the two women: A sacrifice must be made. He must give up part of himself, or at least, a comfortable way of being must be changed. This is all about change. Being in love makes the change effortless.

Just tossing in, this almost perfectly describes my own experiences, in a very literal way. While I understand some may not -for whatever reason- actually be in contact with their muses, it would be a mistake to think this is a purely metaphoric discussion. I believe many, perhaps even all, people have partners on the other side, watching over them. These partners may "naturally" be providing service without any expectation of recognition or direct thanks... but if they are recognized and contacted directly, they're going to be very open to the idea of expanding that relationship and seeking greater unity with "their human," so to speak.

That is, I think, at the heart of Ra's comment about courting vs plundering. That muse is giving service, and someone who never recognizes her as a distinct entity will still be able to call upon her by having the want\need. ie, service on demand, simply because it's expected. But there are many more possibilities available if someone recognizes/respects her individuality as an entity and starts working with her on those terms.

(Female pronouns used for the sake of convenience.)