Kings are associated with control, mastery, discipline and resolve.  Cups represent emotions, love, pleasures in life; matters pertaining to the unconscious, intuition and the inner planes, and the element of water.  The King of Cups is both a romantic, loving person who does not let his emotions lead him down the wrong path.  He has enough life experience to know that while he desires love and pleasure in life sometimes that can lead to unhealthy choices.  

"An involvement with a psychic process has reached an end.  You've reached the completion of a phase in your psychic or spiritual growth.  You could be leaving a church or spiritual group or ending a time of disbelief in psychic phenomena.  It's important that you symbolize this rite of passage in a way that's meaningful to you." - Gail Fairfield

Looking at the King sitting on his throne, his chest emblazoned with medals and a cup in his right hand.  Something about his demeanor and appearance make me think of the type of ruler who is more of a figurehead than an actual leader; a symbol rather than a ruler.  Perhaps he is seen as the father of his people, a caring and concerned man but not one who is known for taking decisive, aggressive action. In many ways the King of Cups has always reminded me of former President Jimmy Carter - a humanitarian and a decent human being and a good leader but not the aggressive, hawkish president the citizens of the U.S. were seeking at that time.

The Master of Cups shows a woman with a mature and solid presence who seems confident and comfortable conducting her ritual under a full moon.  She has a gravity and solidness to her that makes her seem very reliable and knowledgeable.  Something about her suggests that she is understanding and tolerant of human foibles without being a pushover.  She may listen to you and support you through tough times but she will also call you on your self-defeating behaviors.  She is no pushover.

Reversed, I think this card is trying to point out something that I need to stop avoiding.  I think it's trying to tell me that I've reached the limit of what I can on my own.  I've considered becoming more involved with a group when it comes to spiritual matters but haven't actually gotten to that point yet.  I have made some arrangements to work with others in some areas.  I think I do need to get out more and get more involved in group activities.  I have too much a tendency towards isolationism and that isn't going to help me grow.  At one time, I met this need by being involved with online groups.  I did get a lot out of them but the groups have changed over time and so have my needs.  It's something that I am cautiously optimistic and a bit nervous about.  Getting more involved with groups means I have to learn to work with others and compromise on certain things.  These are skills that will always stand me in good stead.  I think I also need to get more serious about completing my DP with ADF.  I think a more structured and focused approach will help me move further along my path.  Once again, I think this is an area in which I've gone as far as I can go without some sort of plan or strategy.