Throughout human history, there is one recurring tradition transcending all cultures and civilisations - the celebration of a new year, regardless of how a “year” is defined. Arguably, that is because as humans, we all yearn for a fresh start, a better trajectory. And yes, we also love a little partying after a long year of working hard.
Whilst we already celebrated the Solar New Year 2022, billions of people, especially in Asia, are also looking forward to the Lunar New Year – the year of the Tiger – which will start from 1st February 2022.
Being one of the twelve Oriental zodiac animals, the Tiger is the symbol of strength, fearlessness, and the power to ward off bad luck; just what we need after two long years fighting the pandemic.
As I have asserted quite a few times during the last 2 years, we are not so much emerging from the pandemic as entering a new business-as-unusual (BAUU) world.
If 2020 (the Year of the Rat) was all about surviving the onslaught of the pandemic, 2021 (the Year of the Ox) required us to plough through tough times with sheer grit, then this 2022 Year of the Tiger will be one of big leaps and bold actions.
If you have watched enough wildlife documentaries, or have had a cat, you would probably know how meticulous their plans of attack are. They can change their routines to match those of their prey. They patiently stalk their prey to achieve the best position and timing before the final big leap.
I would like to imagine that for our business as well as for others, the last two years have been well spent on sharpening our claws and plans of attack. Profound transformations are already set in motion to pounce on and achieve great breakthroughs this year.
On a more personal note, this year marks another 60-year cycle of the Water Tiger. The last year of the Water Tiger was 1962, which was also my year of birth. 2022 gives me a special reason to reflect deeply on my journey and to chart a new course forward.
For those interested in Oriental Astrology, the cycle comes about as the five ancient elements (Metal, Water, Wood, Earth, and Fire) are combined with the 12-year cycle of zodiac animals. A Water Tiger is believed to be brave, eloquent, and highly adaptable to new things.
Regardless of what you think of Oriental Astrology, I believe we can all learn from the seemingly paradoxical power of Water.
“Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless – like water. Now you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup, you put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle, you put it in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Now water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend.” ~ Bruce Lee
On one hand, Water is extremely flexible, being able to take any shape of the container, and flowing gracefully across various landscapes. On the other, it is Water with its relentless power that creates those breathtaking natural wonders in the first place. Persistence and perseverance always prevail in the end.
As cliché as it may sound, I hope this new lunar year will help unleash your inner Tiger. And may the year be filled with good health, successes, and many precious moments with your loved ones.
Chúc mừng năm mới / Happy New Year
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