Home & household

Cross in the cup

Two lines crossing in the grounds make a crossroads — a place where one of two paths is chosen. At home, this means an obligation taken on toward someone, a duty that isn't passed on. An upright, clear cross carries peace and a vow; a tilted one says the burden isn't yours, no matter how long it has sat on your shoulders.

Position changes the tone: nearer the rim speaks of what is close, nearer the bottom of what is further off; a clearer shape speaks louder than a faint one.