Year of the Persistent Dog

Influence of this Eclipse

The new moon that eclipses the sun establishes this holiday as special this year. Because it is the second eclipse this month, it is part of an eclipse season. Its position in the zodiac calls for us to feel more freedom of expression and individuality. These qualities are quite compatible with the mythology related to the expressive capabilities this Year of the Earth Dog promises.

It also relates to the eclipse last August that was called the Great American Eclipse which was visible across the United States. We are now at another turning point politically and culturally. Keeping a persistent focus on our values and beliefs will help us to decide what actions to take throughout the coming months that will serve up multiple challenges. The next eclipse season is six months from now.

Being aware that this is the Year of the Earth Dog can influence how we take advantage of the unseen energy present. Is this just a fun game, or a superstition, or an indicator of old ways of knowing that relate to our current endeavors? For me this lore provides a rich set of metaphors and psychological opportunities that embolden me to seek to expand my possibilities. I hope this gourd shaped, brass vase featuring the auspicious Chinese lions will bring to you a year of patience, perseverance and yes, luck.

In closing, I want to honor another taste of Asian culture. From February 8-25, the 2018 Winter Olympics are being held in South Korea bringing together participants from 92 countries, and through the power of technology, draws an estimated five billion viewers. While the cultures of Asia vary markedly they also have common traits. One is honoring Nature in an animistic way.

The opening ceremony was quite relevant to this discussion. Since we are just leaving the Year of the Phoenix (Rooster) I was struck by the interpretation the commentator provided when an artful depiction of a Phoenix came onto the stage. She reminded those listening that this is a chance to reflect on the difference between Western and Eastern cultures. She pointed out that images can have diverse meanings across cultures making it important to acquire cross-cultural literacy. I would add that by valuing knowledge of varied cultural traditions, we can learn from and enrich one another.

She noted westerners might look at the Phoenix and think it was a symbol of the Koreans rising from the ashes after the end of the Korean War. But actually in Korean culture Phoenixes are not what rises from ashes but what appears at points of great hope. The Phoenix appears at moments of material prosperity and spiritual peace. While this past year has been a mix of many emotions, remembering this interpretation can give us a lift for our future endeavors. The shows of unity at these revered sporting contests remind us we can have another vision which includes all beings living in harmony while respecting one another.

Art credits:

Happy Chinese New Year greeting in public domain

Chinese Dog Paper Cut by tee’s work
United States Postal Service, Happy New Year Stamp, Year of the Dog
Chinese embroidery from ceremonial robe, in the collection of Liz and Bob Fisher
Dragon Parade, Chinese folk art lithograph, in the collection of Liz and Bob Fisher
Chinese Lion, collectible souvenir, in the collection of Liz and Bob Fisher
Blue Dog, Original Artwork © by Michael Wertz, Oakland California
Original Brush Painting entitled Play Ball by Nan Rae, www.nanrae.com
Image of Solar Eclipse in the public domain
Gourd-shaped, brass vase featuring auspicious Chinese lions, in the collection of Liz and Bob Fisher
Winter Olympics art Courtesy of Behance, https://www.behance.net/gallery/13653457/2018-Winter-Olympics

Photos by Bob Fisher.