And we move, once again, into the Wood phase of the year, according to Chinese Medicine. Wood represents the pioneering spirit – that drive which inspires us to begin new projects and make changes in life. Spring is a great time for new beginnings. We root into the earth, like a tree, and reach upward toward the sun.
This powerful Wood energy, however, does have its limits. If we set a goal for ourselves and then find obstacles in our path, we can become frustrated – either trudging ahead in anger or collapsing back in a heap. So the key is to push forward, but remain flexible and open-hearted, maneuvering around obstacles with graceful determination.
I saw this concept in action while on my retreat in Bali. The Balinese drive their cars and motorbikes through narrow streets, threading through each other in a tangled web of continual motion. Yet no one honks their horn, and everyone yields to the others without anger or incident. In fact, this is how the Balinese live their lives. They busily move through their day, but take time to stop as you pass by to bring their hands to their hearts and greet you with a true smile and earnest concern. They are constantly making preparations for worship and festivals to come, but they live in the present with joy and love.
So this spring season might be a nice time to dust off your new years resolutions (or make some new ones) and get moving. What fresh start would you like to set in motion? Begin taking steps now, but know that life will throw you many curves. Honor your goals, and remember to yield with an open mind and open heart.
Om SwastiAstu (“May God shower you with blessings” in Balinese).
