Maya Gilkison- Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL)- Tuesday, Feb. 17, was the first day of the Lunar New Year. This year's lunar zodiac is the Horse.
The day marks the beginning of a new year according to the lunar calendars used primarily in Asia. The lunar calendar is a timekeeping system based on the cycle of the Moon’s phases.
The lunar zodiac is a 12-year cycle where each year is represented by a specific animal and its reputed attributes. It is based on the lunar calendar, and it determines a person’s sign based on their birth year.
The cycle consists of 12 animals in a set order - Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
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This order originates from a common folklore called the “Jade Emperor’s Race” or “Heavenly Gate Race.” In this story the Jade Emperor (or Buddha) held a "Great Race" across a river for all animals to determine the 12-year cycle.
The Jade Emperor ordered the animals to cross the river to reach his palace. The Horses got seventh place because in the story he was startled by Snake, causing the Snake to get ahead.
On Lunar New Year traditional red envelopes are filled with money and are given by elders to children to symbolize good luck, prosperity, and protection against evil spirits.
Many Asian Americans recognize the day and an announcement from the White House says, “On this Lunar New Year, we celebrate these enduring virtues and carry them with us as we continue building upon America’s Golden Age. As family, friends, and communities gather to welcome the start of Lunar New Year, the First Lady and I join in wishing you a year filled with health, happiness, good fortune, and peace.”