This is only relevant to people interested in creating your own life myths using archetypes and other stories and symbolism. Which often means dipping into the woo-woo world. (To me, that kind of stuff is fantasy, and fantasy is wonderful in all kinds of ways, as long as you don't take it literally).
End of disclaimer.
...
I am highly sensitive (sensorily, emotionally, and physically). I have empathy, in the sense of feeling other people's emotions alongside my own. I have experienced trauma...
... and the only archetype out there for me seems to be "the (wounded) healer".
I tried to do that once, and it does not fit me. At all.
Healers are great, but that's not me. Surely that can't be the only path people like me are walking?
Apparently there are also "protectors". I was intrigued by that archetype because when other people are being hurt, I feel intensely angry and yearn to Do Something about it. I have also been told I am nonjudgmental and emotionally safe to be around -- Protectors are said to act as a refuge for sensitive souls. I (Indigo child age) am extremely protective of my younger sibling (Crystal child age). But I'm the opposite of practical, action oriented, and secure. I hate and avoid taking responsibility for anyone but myself. Frankly, the archetype feels very masculine, and I've never been drawn to that -- I run feminine to neutral.
The only archetype I've ever seen that remotely fits me is witch. Or high priestess, in tarot.
I'm hanging out in my remote, comfortable little cottage in the woods, hugging my cat. I'm trying to improve the world from afar, or just have fun, with my spells. I'm not here just to heal. I'm here to enchant and conjure and transmute, and maybe cast a few illusions and throw a few fireballs. I'm the Cool Weird Auntie, like Miss Frizzle.
I'm aloof, a little selfish, and easily angry. I will help you if you ask, but I'm not out there looking for people to help. If you treat me and others badly, I will not hesitate to tell you, and warn other people about you.
I can heal you, but I'm more likely to teach you, or shatter an illusion you had, or give you a sword like Excalibur or some other magic item so you can go on your own quest.
The problem with Healer is it's necessarily part of a pair. Healer and healed. Giver and receiver. One needs someone or something else to live one's life purpose. No thank you.
I am here for myself and have my own life path. Plus, binaries are boring.
So, for now, I'll be a Witch/Sorceress/Wise Woman.
What other archetypes/life myths exist for highly sensitive, empathic types? Have I missed anything interesting?
What are your favorites? Do you have any?
