Have you ever refused to let go of something or someone even though you were being hurt?
When something is hard to explain, we create stories in order to understand what might be happening. The tale of Tam Lin tries to show us that, when love is true, it is worth holding onto it even though the experience may become painful.
Once upon a time there were two lovers, Margaret and Tam Lin. Tam Lin was so handsome that the Queen of the Fairies stole him and took him down to the Underworld where he lost his voice and could no longer speak.
Desperate to get him back, Margaret waited for Midsummer’s Day when the Queen and her entourage would next appear. When they arrived, Margaret was overjoyed to see him sitting on a white horse. She cried out for him to return to her but the Queen only laughed. Then she told Margaret that the only way could have him back was to hold onto him whatever form he took.
As Margaret reached up to take his hand. Tam Lin turned into a poisonous snake. Despite her terror, Margaret refused to let go.
Next, he turned into a fire-breathing dragon. Even though her hair and eyelashes began to singe, she still held on.
Finally, he turned into a red-hot poker. This time, the pain was more than she could endure so she jumped into the river, taking him with her, and they both drowned.
The Queen was so impressed by her loyalty and love, that she brought them both back to life and they lived happily ever after.
This tale tells us that love may sometimes feel threatening, too hot to handle and agonisingly painful. However, if it is true love, we will find the strength and courage to hold onto it whatever form it takes.
Then we, and love, will triumph in the end.
Image by Josch 13 – Pixabay
