Schema Magazine

Each year we point out that Lunar New Year, despite it being popularly known as Chinese New Year, is in fact celebrated by Vietnamese and Korean communities—as Solnal, the Korean New Year, and Tet, the Vietnamese New Year.

In our Lunar New Year post for 2009, we brought together a collection of celebrations from around the world. While in 2007, we explained what the different Chinese food symbolized.

According to Dr. Maoshing Ni, he forecasts big changes ahead. He further explains that, "In Chinese astrology the tiger is one of the most dynamic and powerful signs. Its nature is unpredictable, courageous, and explosive."

Right from the start, the Year of the Tiger hasn't disappointed. This Lunar New Year came at the same time as the 2010 Winter Games and Valentine's Day. Both characterized by unpredictability (also known as surprises), courage and at times explosiveness. Perhaps befitting the controversy that my post about the opening ceremonies created (on Georgia Straight).

If you're looking for what to expect this year, what you'll find are vague descriptions generally tied to the character of those born in the Year of the Tiger (my year, actually). There's far more detail in how the cosmos influences your character if you're a Tiger, or if you're having a child this year (also me, actually).

Perhaps one of the most overlooked points of Lunar New Year is an annual a self-reflection on you, your strengths and weaknesses, and your propensities.

Check out this great description of the sign of the Tiger, from www.usbridalguide.com:

The Tiger is said to be lucky vivid, lively and engaging. Another attribute of the Tiger is his incredible bravery, evidenced in his willingness to engage in battle or his undying courage.

Or you can look at the characteristics of the year as a point of inspiration.

Considering what Tigers are known for, make this the year of courage. Not just confidence, but bravery to stand out, rock the boat and walk straight into a bit of controversy. If you so happen to be a Tiger, you have no excuses—this is your year!