By Chigan Roland Jaeckel Roshi
The end of one calendar year and the beginning of another invite us to contemplate and recognize the activity of time. We look at where we are, where we came from, and where our intentions may lead us in our journey through the three periods of time. The Year of the Dragon will end shortly and give way to the Year of the Snake, another scaly sign of the zodiac.
The snake has many connotations and interpretations as an animal and an archetype. In East Asian culture, the snake signifies wisdom and transformation. As we move into 2025, we anticipate significant changes and challenges in our country, our society, and our civic life. Wisdom is of great importance during these times of transformation, and we are invited to dig deeply into the function of our own heart-mind. As times change, we change — impermanence is at work.
When the time is ripe, the snake sheds its skin. This shedding may occur as the snake outgrows its tight skin, sustains an injury, matures to another stage of its life cycle, or reacts to environmental changes. The snake’s old skin turns opaque, even over its eyes, rendering it practically blind at times. To pierce the old skin, the snake rubs its head against a rough surface. Once the head is exposed, the snake moves through tight spaces to catch the dead skin and peel it off its body.
When we experience change and challenging times, let us employ the wisdom of the snake. Events that feel excoriating may serve as opportunities to break through and free ourselves. When we feel that we cannot see a way out, the old, opaque skin of habit, fear, and avoidance may be what obstructs our sight. We must develop the wisdom that recognizes that events which appear to be constraining us may be opportunities to shed the old and emerge into a new and dynamic now.
2024 was truly remarkable. ZSS welcomed nine new Junior Dharma teachers who have become integral contributors to the sangha. Shinge Roshi and Hokuto Osho’s presence and leadership during the Dai Bosatsu Zendo Anniversary and Rohatsu Sesshin added to the bounty of Dharma treasures we reaped last year. Our new Dharma teachers helped facilitate the 2024 Bodhisattva Initiation, which included fourteen Jukai recipients.
The Zen Studies Society remains healthy and strong, thanks to your practice and generous support. Nevertheless, our programs do not defray the cost of our two temples, and your support is crucial. We deeply appreciate your generosity; every contribution, regardless of size, makes a lasting impact.
Farewell 2024, and welcome to the New Year! Let us meet 2025 with unwavering curiosity and care. Happy New Year of the Snake!