Maelstrom

Moskstraumen.
Saltstraumen.
Old Sow.
Corryvrecken.
Naruto.

These are the five significant whirlpools on our Earth. Tides alone cannot explain their existence. It is the tides plus what the tides encounter. Below the surface the contours of the unseen landscape disrupt the flow. If the hindrance is enough . . . dangerous chaos at the surface.

The word we use in English for these large whirlpools is "maelstrom." Mael means "to grind." Strom is from "straumen" or stream. Literally, then, the "grinding stream." The name pictures what happens when boats stray near.

The topography of the seabed has great impact at the surface. Our lives are no different. The topography of the heart affects the outward flow. Whatever we bury deep down causes the flow of our lives to eddy and swirl. Much of the time the unrest remains below the surface where no one else can see it. But when the stuff that's buried piles high enough, the surface roils. That is a problem - not just for you, but for those around you.

Lots of people refuse to deal with their stuff. They bury it and it stays buried alive. It never goes away. They live sad and heavy lives. They end up living all over everyone around them. The current of their lives sucks the energy out of anyone nearby. If it's strong enough, it will destroy those closest.

Descent into the maelstrom can be true of the sea. There are places that will pull you down. You will not escape. It can also be true of people. They can be grinding streams. Beware the tides.