from all of us at Red String
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
On February 1, 2022, the first new moon of the new year, we leave behind 2021 and it’s master, the Metal-Ox, and welcome, the year of the Water-Tiger. The tiger is third of the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac and water is one of the five elements - metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. The combination of Tiger and Water only happens once every 60-years, making it an event that most people will only be able to experience twice in their lifetimes, when they are born and when they turn 60. This is why, in many Asian cultures, it is believed that when a person reaches the age of 60, he or she has completed a full cycle of life, but rather than marking an end, it is thought to be a time of rebirth, the beginning of a new life. And because of this, a person's 60th birthday is considered a very auspicious day celebrated with friends and family, food, gifts and festivities.
I was born in the year of the Water Tiger, and it is why I am particularly excited and looking forward to the new year. Oh, and did I mention receiving gifts?
Those born in a Tiger year are said to be determined, adventurous, and sometimes a bit aggressive in their approach to life and meeting their goals. However, they are led by a generous heart and a strong sense of honor. Tigers love to win, but only if they have played the game by all the rules and won fairly. The element of Water in the Chinese Zodiac represents contemplation and reflection. When paired with a confident Tiger, Water tempers some of Tigers' more assertive and stubborn traits; although, some of my friends may say otherwise.
A few notable Water Tigers include Ansel Adams, Larry Fine (from the Three Stooges), Jodie Foster, MC Hammer, Bobby Jones, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Charles Lindbergh, and Michelle Yeoh.
The combination of the aggressive Tiger and the cooling effects of water means that the master of 2022 is expected to bring about great changes but will do so for the betterment of society as a whole, and in so doing, the Water Tiger brings the promise for a year of positive transformations.
Fingers crossed.
(To be continued)