This text in the passage is an example of the element of water, which doesn't only take different forms, but it's also introspective and reflective. The highlighted phrase reminds one of a mirror, and guess what mirrors are made out of? Water. Water comes out of our eyes whenever our emotions get the best of us. In this context, the leader is using their memories to reflect on the past, solely based of trust and appreciation from his people/ Emotions are caused by memories, causing one to reflect and decide.