The Magician + Eight of Swords, Dog + Xultun

Thinking that no actions on our part can bridge the 'cultural gap' or 'root problem' in the situation at hand - we're forever trapped.

With emphasis on the word THINKING.
Eight of Swords, the cards symbolizing being trapped by our own mind.

The Magician.
"represents your dog's ability to make things happen, to almost miraculously get what he wants"
It seems that there is a lack of faith in this sense at the moment.
And maybe also a fear to...
"...turn this situation to my advantage"?

Again, maybe because a fear of "breaking rules"?
In a peculiar way 'thinking of your own good' is often deemed outright "selfish" in this society. It's quickly judged 'manipulative' and 'narcissistic'. And you're quickly blamed and shamed for not 'thinking enough on others', and for 'hurting' others.
(Of course there are clear cases of this, when people 'walk over their own dead mother' for stuff, and really don't care who have to take a fall or blow.)

Especially in relationships I've observed.
Many are often founded on and standing on very codependent emotional commitments - NOT 'love' and 'wanting the best for the other'.
Because the main part of the population find it such an uncomfortable thing to take personal Emotional Responsibility.

It's so much easier to put it on your partner 'to not hurt you'. And also blame them as soon as you feel hurt...!
Loads of unconscious and unwritten demands. And requirements that your partner go to great lengths in this matter - avoid anything that you perceive as hurtful.
Even run over and lie to themselves, put their own happiness aside - especially if it affects yours negatively.
THAT is manipulation.
To not want a person you proclaim to LOVE to follow their own happiness, EVEN if it means turning away from you.

For sure a tough spot to be in this prison of conditional love (which isn't love).
Pain no matter which way you go in.

(writing for a friend <3)