The Year of the Snake

2025. The Year of the Snake.

This new lunar cycle will begin on Wednesday, January 29th. The snake is the sixth within a cohort of twelve; sharing the zodiac marquee with the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, (snake), horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. 

I remember stumbling upon a depiction of all twelve during a visit to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). A bronze head, one for each zodiac symbol, was located in the museum's courtyard. Recreated by artist Ai Weiwei, this fanciful loop harkened back to the original dozen that adorned the grounds of Beijing's Summer Palace. I had never seen anything quite like it. 

Those born during the Year of the Snake are said to be mysterious, wise, determined, persuasive, and passionate. On the flip side they are also prone to jealousy, suspicion, and judgement. 

As someone born during the Year of the Rat, it seems prudent to give the snake a wide berth. That said, I'll still be taking a page from the snake's book. Time to leave the old behind and make room for the new....

"Just as a snake sheds its skin, we must shed our past over and over again." - Gautama Buddha