The Year of the Dragon

It is 2012, the year of “The Dragon!” Many fear the dragon, but that is because they do not know its true nature. The Chinese dragon, better known for its proper name, the Lung Dragon, is the guardian of peace, and has been so for thousands of years. Unfortunately its cousin the European Dragon has given it a bad name, but unlike the European Dragon the Lung Dragon does not burn villages and ravage livestock in demand of virgin sacrifices. As I said, the Lung Dragon is the keeper of peace, and prefers to promote tranquility, laughter, celebration, and humbleness.

Do not be confused by the Lung Dragons lack of wings, for it can fly. The Lung Dragon, much like a kite, has learned to ride the wind, but they prefer the water, and can be found most likely lurking in deep winding rivers or large lakes. The female dragon’s egg is often mistaken for a pearl which she carries with her always for its protection, for she only lays one.

Legend has it that Fu Hsi, one of the oldest recorded dragonologists, meet a Lung Dragon on the banks of the Yellow River in 2962 BC. There the dragon taught him the art of written language. This is truly one of the greatest gifts that we have received from these Nobel creatures.

The Chinese will honor the Lung Dragon this year with a glorious Dragon Festival. By day they will fly beautiful kites, with long colorful tails in their honor. By night, they will have dragon dances down the narrow streets. Many paper lanterns will be held by laughing children as they light the way, and fireworks will pepper the skies! The Chinese people will feast, and sing, and dance in honor of this magnificent creature. So come tomorrow I say to thee, “Do not fear the Lung Dragon, but rather embrace it, for its gift of wisdom, and its grace and beauty!”

B{-