Happy Chinese New Year – The Year of the Dog
Happy Chinese New Year
The Year of the Dog…
The Peninsula Woman
Mar – April 2006
“A boy can learn a lot from dog:
obedience, loyalty and the importance
of turning around three times before lying down.”
~Robert Benchley
January 29, 2006 – February 17, 2007, we celebrate an animal associated with the Chinese Astrological calendar each year. This calendar originated in 2637 B.C. by Emperor Huang Ti. The ancient legend states that Lord Buddha summoned all the animals to bid him farewell before leaving the earth. Twelve animals showed up, and he named a year for each animal in the order of its arrival. First came the Rat, then the Ox, the Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and finally the Boar. The animal ruling the year that you were born is said to influence your life. This year is the year of the Dog!
The Dog is known for its loyalty, playfulness, tenacity, protection, and watchfulness. In Chinese culture, the Dog is displayed in a powerful guard position. It symbolizes protecting the peace and keeping serenity to those around it. The Dog may be likable in the Chinese horoscope because it exudes honesty, loyalty, and a passion for justice and fair play.
Dogs live entirely in the moment and respond to what is happening at the moment. They do not hold grudges and are not overly ambitious. Dogs are clear-eyed, open-minded observers and desire to preserve and guard the general public's interest. When Dog decides to take up a cause he thinks is right, he moves fairly and with attention to what is right and just. Paradoxically, the Dog's happiness may come from worrying and protecting those he loves. Often he will put his wishes on hold and be willing to sacrifice himself for the good of others.
What to do during the Year of the Dog
The year of the Dog teaches us to be watchful, defend our values, and remain loyal to fairness and order. Simplicity is in demand this year. Don't be surprised if you are asked to join or help a cause this year. Also, loyalty in a relationship becomes more important this year, as does the family. Dogs are pack animals and need a pack leader in every situation. When the occasion arises, and your gifts are needed, give them freely as any dog will.
What to hold on to or pursue during the year:
– Keeping the peace and guarding your Pack (family and good friends).
– Your "Cause" as it relates to your unique value system.
– New and exciting experiences
– Creativity and playfulness
What to avoid this year:
– Hanging onto dead-end things (from clutter to poor relationships.)
– Panic, anxiety, and worry.
– Fighting for a cause you will never really get behind.
– Guilt trips, Pity-Parties, and Bullies.
Also, Dogs are pack animals and require a leader. So if you are not a natural-born leader and have difficulty in your life, please seek help from those who are natural "pack leaders."
This is the year to find counsel from those who know what is required of you. And to live happily within the human Pack. This might also mean staying close to your inner circle of friends and family for advice and seeking the love, affection, and advice you may need during this year.
Best results this year are achieved when worry is transformed into advanced thinking—also, clearing out old stuff and planning for the future. So, if you can, spend some time with our furry friends, the Dog, and watch their behavior to learn what the Year of the Dog has in store for you.
"We cannot all do great things, but we can do small things with great love." Mother Teresa (born the year of the Dog).
