Thursday, November 6, at 23:05 EST marks astronomical Samhain also known as Halloween, and is the precise start of the Fire Pig month as well. This mid-point between the Autumn Equinox and the Winter Solstice also marks the beginning of the winter season for both the Chinese and Celtic wheel of the year.
Winter is a season of darkness and in the Chinese seasonal landscape is governed by the element of water. This is deep, dark, cold water, the ocean on a cold night. How fitting then that the imagery of the Fire Pig represents a bright light shining upon dark waters, guiding the way, and giving hope.
Elementally, water represents emotions and thoughts, and especially in the wisdom of the I Ching the element of danger and fear. Given the massive and rapid changes we are experiencing in the unfolding of Period 9, there is certainly an element of uncertainty now and for many real danger.
The message of the pillar for this month is to look for points of light to guide you. Whether the light is a person, a place, small moments of fun or joy. Perhaps more steadying, finding the light may also include a spiritual practice that enables you to keep your own light shining. If you are fortunate to stabilize that light within you, hold that light for others that you may be a beacon of hope as well.
The wisdom of the I Ching in this month’s hexagram provides additional insight on how to bring light into this dark season. The hexagram for this month, #16 is called Delight. Translations of the ancient texts speak of finding delight in merriment and refreshing the spirit through song and dance. As the Thunder trigram represents heavenly fire it also speaks of cultivating awe and inspiration to strengthen bonds between humans and a higher power. This hexagram advises finding respite from challenging times by engaging in activities that lift the spirit and create connection. While the name of the hexagram is Delight, the presence of the Thunder hexagram cautions vigilance. While it is good to find moments of delight it is important not to lose sight of or ignore the dangers that are still present. That said, one cannot endure long periods of hardship without finding moments of levity and joy. Especially as we gather in the United States to celebrate Thanksgiving this month, may we take time for delicious enjoyment, the emotional and spiritual nourishment needed to sustain us, while remaining aware of those who are less fortunate and bring delight to them as well.
Having a sense of uneasiness may not be unfounded, as there is good reason to remain vigilant this month as this is likely to be a month of many changes. The Pig is the zodiac sign that forms an opposition or clash to the Snake year. This clashing energy is a catalyst for change and of all twelve months of the year, this is the month with the greatest potential for change and transformation. It is also a month that becomes increasingly influenced by the infiltration of the incoming Fire Horse year. The shifting energy of this month will likely bring many global and systemic changes. The best question to ask yourself is where do I have the ability to affect change in my own life and how would I like to harness this energy to better my circumstances or implement new ways of moving forward? Start imagining ways to make change work for you.
As we enter the winter season and the final quarter of the Chinese year this month, it is also an important time to take stock of the year that is nearly past and begin looking ahead to the year that is already beginning to shape the course of events around us. The Fire Horse year is quickly approaching bringing even greater opportunities for change and transformation, not only for the collective but for personal hopes and dreams as well. I am excited to share information for the coming year with my annual Feng Shui and Astrology workshop and with more personalized one on one annual sessions which will be available starting in December so stay tuned!