selfology.co/YOR2024RETREAT

Year of Renewal 2024 Retreat

自我生態® 知曉篤信

Ringing in the New Year at Harrison Hot Springs: A West Coast Retreat

心靈之旅,從寵愛自己開始

As the calendar flips to 2025, why not trade the urban hustle for the tranquil embrace of Harrison Hot Springs? Nestled along the picturesque Harrison Lake, this charming village offers a unique blend of relaxation and celebration, making it the perfect spot to welcome the New Year.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa

Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa Lights by the Lake Starlight Skating Rink Healing Springs Spa

Ringing in the New Year at Harrison Hot Springs: A West Coast Retreat

As the calendar turns to 2025, consider exchanging the city’s bustle for the serene ambiance of Harrison Hot Springs. Nestled along the picturesque Harrison Lake, this charming village offers a harmonious blend of relaxation and celebration, making it an ideal destination to welcome the New Year.

Authentic Hot Springs Experience

At the heart of this retreat is the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa, renowned for its five mineral hot spring pools. Sourced directly from local springs, these pools provide a genuine and rejuvenating experience. Guests can choose from two indoor and three outdoor pools, each maintained at varying temperatures to suit individual preferences. Learn more

Accommodations for Your Stay

For a group of four, the resort offers the Heritage Building: Family Room, featuring a queen-size bed and an adjoining room with two twin beds. Each room is equipped with a 42” flat-screen TV, ceiling fan, and operable windows. The two rooms share a bathroom, Keurig coffee maker, and beverage cooler. Learn more

For the most accurate pricing and availability, it’s recommended to contact the resort directly.

Festive Activities

  • Lights by the Lake: From November 23, 2024, to January 6, 2025, the Harrison lakefront transforms into a magical wonderland with custom-built light displays highlighting local wildlife and the legendary Sasquatch. The 2 km promenade is fully paved, making it wheelchair and stroller-friendly. More details

  • Starlight Skating Rink: Open until January 5, 2025, this outdoor synthetic ice rink offers a delightful skating experience. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own skates, though rentals are available on-site during weekends and the Christmas break. More details

  • Sasquatch Mountain Resort: For those seeking winter sports, the resort offers skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. With 37 marked runs over 205 acres, there’s ample space for adventure. More details

Dining Options

  • The Copper Room: Known for its upscale cuisine and live music, this venue provides a memorable dining experience. Reservations are recommended, especially during the holiday season. Learn more

  • Lakeside Café: Offers a variety of dishes with scenic views, perfect for a casual meal. Learn more

Sample Itinerary

January 5, 2025:

  • Morning: Arrive and check into your chosen accommodation. If rooms aren’t ready, store luggage with the concierge and explore the resort’s amenities.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at the Lakeside Café, followed by relaxation in the hot spring pools.

  • Evening: Dine at The Copper Room and take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront to enjoy the “Lights by the Lake” display.

January 6, 2025:

  • Morning: Buffet breakfast at the Lakeside Café, then visit the Starlight Skating Rink.

  • Afternoon: Explore local eateries for lunch, followed by a scenic boat tour with Harrison Eco Tours.

  • Evening: Enjoy a final meal at one of the resort’s dining venues or a local restaurant before departure.

Embrace the New Year with a perfect blend of relaxation and festive activities at Harrison Hot Springs, creating lasting memories with your loved ones.

Call to Action

Ready to trade the city’s clamor for a serene lakeside celebration? Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and head to Harrison Hot Springs this New Year. Share your experiences with us using the hashtags above, and let’s make this a community celebration to remember!

Footnotes

  1. Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa: A renowned resort offering five mineral hot spring pools sourced directly from local springs. https://www.harrisonresort.com/

  2. Accommodations: The resort provides options like the Heritage Building: Family Room, suitable for groups of four. https://www.harrisonresort.com/accommodations/heritage-building-family-room

  3. Contact Information: For accurate pricing and availability, it’s recommended to contact the resort directly. https://www.harrisonresort.com/contact-us/

  4. Festive Activities: Events like Lights by the Lake, Starlight Skating Rink, and Sasquatch Mountain Resort offer various festive activities during the holiday season. https://tourismharrison.com/lights-by-the-lake/

  5. The Copper Room: An upscale dining venue known for its cuisine and live music; reservations are recommended during the holiday season. https://www.harrisonresort.com/dining/copper-room/

  6. Lakeside Café: Offers a variety of dishes with scenic views, ideal for casual meals. https://www.harrisonresort.com/dining/

  7. Official Website of Sasquatch Mountain Resort: https://sasquatchmountain.ca/

A Retreat to farewell the Year of Renewal 2024 and to Welcome the Year of Faith 2025

Year of Renewal 2024 革新年 ⋆ selfology.co

The Transition: From the Year of Renewal to the Year of Faith

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, it’s a moment ripe for reflection and anticipation. The Year of Renewal has been a period of transformation and growth, urging us to shed old habits and embrace new beginnings. Now, we step into the Year of Faith, a time to trust in the journey ahead and believe in the possibilities that lie before us.

Reflecting on Renewal

The past year has been a testament to the adage, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”[1] Each step we’ve taken has been a move towards personal growth and transformation. This aligns with the wisdom of Confucius, who said, “When you meet someone better than yourself, turn your thoughts to becoming his equal. When you meet someone not as good as you are, look within and examine your own self.”[2] Such introspection has been the cornerstone of our renewal.

Stepping into Faith

As we transition into the Year of Faith, we are reminded of the importance of trust and belief in our path. The teachings of Laozi offer profound insight: “The journey of a thousand miles begins beneath one’s feet.”[3] This emphasizes that every significant endeavor starts from where we currently stand, urging us to take that crucial first step with confidence.

The Power of Self-Reflection

Confucius also taught the value of self-examination: “When you meet someone not as good as you are, look within and examine your own self.”[4] This practice of daily self-reflection allows us to align our actions with our values, fostering personal integrity and growth.

Moving Forward

As we bid farewell to the Year of Renewal and welcome the Year of Faith, let us carry forward the lessons learned. Embrace each new step with trust in the journey, engage in continuous self-reflection, and remain steadfast in your personal growth. Remember, “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”[5]


  1. Laozi, Tao Te Ching, Chapter 64. Source

  2. Confucius, The Analects. Source

  3. Laozi, Tao Te Ching, Chapter 64. Source

  4. Confucius, The Analects. Source

  5. Confucius. Source

Footnotes

  1. Year of Renewal 2024 革新年
  2. Ringing in the New Year at Harrison Hot Springs: A West Coast Retreat

The Peacock in English, Taiwanese, and Chinese Cultures

The peacock, celebrated for its vibrant plumage and majestic presence, holds diverse symbolic meanings across various cultures. This analysis delves into its connotations in English-speaking societies, as well as in Taiwanese and Chinese contexts, incorporating local dialects and pronunciations.[1]

General Observations of the Image

The provided image showcases a peacock with its tail feathers fully fanned out, displaying vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The artistic, stained-glass-inspired background enhances the sense of elegance and regal pride. The symmetrical posture of the peacock emphasizes its magnificence and self-assurance.[2]

Peacock Symbolism in English Culture

In English-speaking cultures, the peacock embodies several symbolic meanings:

Beauty and Elegance

The peacock’s stunning appearance often represents beauty and grace, making it a popular motif in art and literature.[3]

Pride and Vanity

The term “peacock” is sometimes used metaphorically to describe individuals who are overly proud or vain, drawing parallels to the bird’s ostentatious display of feathers.[4]

Immortality and Resurrection

In Christian symbolism, the peacock is associated with immortality and the resurrection of Christ, due to the belief that its flesh does not decay.[5]

Peacock Symbolism in Taiwanese and Chinese Cultures

In Taiwan and China, the peacock (孔雀, kǒngquè, pronounced “kong-chueh”) carries rich symbolic meanings:

Beauty and Dignity

The peacock is considered a manifestation of the heavenly phoenix (凤凰, fènghuáng, pronounced “fung-hwong”) on earth, symbolizing dignity and beauty.[6]

Good Luck and Prosperity

Traditionally, the peacock is believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil, often used as a talisman to dispel negativity.[7]

Nobility and Grace

In art and literature, the peacock represents nobility and grace, embodying refinement and virtue.[8]

Association with the Phoenix

The peacock is sometimes linked to the mythical phoenix, a symbol of rebirth and immortality, highlighting its esteemed status in Chinese culture.[9]

Pronunciation Guide for Key Terms

TermChinese CharactersPinyinPronunciationTranslation
Peacock孔雀kǒngquèkong-chuehPeacock
Phoenix凤凰fènghuángfung-hwongPhoenix
Dignity尊贵zūnguìdzun-gwayDignity/Nobility
Beauty美丽měilìmay-leeBeauty
Luck好运hǎoyùnhow-yoonGood Luck
Grace优雅yōuyǎyo-yahGrace/Elegance

These cultural interpretations underscore the peacock’s universal appeal as a symbol of beauty, pride, and auspiciousness, with nuanced meanings that reflect the values and beliefs of each society.


Footnotes


  1. Explore Peacock Symbolism Across Cultures on Mimi Matthews

  2. The stained-glass background symbolizes regality and creativity, enhancing the peacock’s majestic stance.

  3. Beauty in Victorian Art and Literature – Mimi Matthews

  4. “Proud as a Peacock” is a common idiom in English culture, symbolizing vanity.

  5. Peacock Symbolism in Christianity

  6. Phoenix and Peacock Connection – Nations Online

  7. Auspicious Symbols in Chinese Folklore – Chinese Showcase

  8. Peacocks in Chinese Art – Chinese Mythology Worldwide

  9. Peacock and Phoenix Symbolism in China – Son of China

Navigating the Year of Faith 2025: A Reflective Journey

As we step into 2025, Selfology invites you to embark on a journey of devotion (篤信, dǔ xìn), understanding (知曉, zhī xiǎo), and steadfastness (堅定不移, jiān dìng bù yí). This path mirrors the contemplative walks through nature, where each step fosters introspection and personal growth.[1]

Guided Imagery: A Serene Stroll

Envision this:

You find yourself walking along Vancouver’s iconic Seawall, the Pacific breeze gently caressing your face. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee from a nearby café mingles with the salty sea air. Towering pines stand as silent sentinels, their whispers echoing ancient tales. With each step, you delve deeper into your inner world, encountering symbols and images that arise from the unconscious. Engage with these manifestations through active imagination, allowing them to guide you toward self-discovery and spiritual growth.[2]

Social Media Introduction

Join Selfology in 2025 as we embark on a journey of faith, inspired by the tranquil beauty of Vancouver. Let’s explore the depths of devotion, understanding, and steadfastness together.

Top Hashtags and Mentions

  • #YearOfFaith2025
  • #SelfologyJourney
  • #VancouverSeawall
  • #InnerLight
  • #ReflectivePath

This year, let’s honor ourselves by integrating the conscious and unconscious, illuminating our path toward wholeness.[3]

Ready to embark on this transformative journey? Step forward with faith, and let’s traverse this path together.[4]



  1. Selfology’s Year of Faith 2025

  2. Vancouver’s Seawall

  3. Vancouver’s Coffee Culture

  4. Stanley Park Seawall Walk

The peacock and the phoenix, though distinct entities, share profound symbolic associations with immortality, resurrection, and renewal across various cultures and religions.

In Christianity:

  • Peacock: Early Christians believed that the peacock’s flesh did not decay after death, symbolizing immortality and aligning it with the resurrection of Christ. The “eyes” on its tail feathers were also seen as representations of God’s omniscience. [1]

  • Phoenix: Although not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the phoenix, known for rising from its ashes, became a symbol of Christ’s resurrection and the concept of spiritual rebirth. [2]

In Chinese Culture:

  • Peacock: Celebrated for its beauty, the peacock symbolizes dignity, nobility, and good fortune. It is often considered an earthly manifestation of the heavenly phoenix. [3]

  • Phoenix (Fenghuang): The Fenghuang represents rebirth, immortality, and the harmonious union of yin and yang. It is a symbol of the Empress and embodies feminine grace, often depicted alongside the dragon, which represents the Emperor. [4]

Symbolic Overlap:

Both the peacock and the phoenix embody themes of:

  • Immortality: The peacock’s association with incorruptibility and the phoenix’s cycle of rebirth both signify eternal life. [5]

  • Resurrection: They represent triumph over death and the promise of renewal. [6]

  • Transformation: Both symbolize profound change and the emergence of new life from the old. [7]

Cultural Significance:

The association of the peacock with the phoenix enriches its symbolic meaning in both Christian and Chinese cultures, highlighting universal themes of eternal life and renewal. While interpretations vary, both creatures serve as reminders of life’s cyclical nature and the potential for transformation beyond physical death.

Footnotes:

Note: The above content is formatted in Markdown, with footnotes providing additional resources and context.


  1. Read more about early Christian beliefs regarding the peacock: Link to a resource on early Christian symbolism

  2. Learn more about the phoenix in Christian art and literature: Link to a resource on phoenix symbolism in Christianity

  3. Discover the significance of the peacock in Chinese culture: Link to a resource on Chinese symbolism

  4. Delve deeper into the mythology of the Fenghuang in Chinese culture: Link to a resource on Chinese mythology

  5. Explore the concept of immortality in different cultures: Link to a resource on immortality

  6. Read more about the symbolism of resurrection across various religions: Link to a resource on resurrection symbolism

  7. Learn about the theme of transformation in mythology and folklore: Link to a resource on transformation symbolism

The phoenix, a mythical bird that cyclically regenerates or is otherwise born again, has captivated human imagination for millennia. This enduring symbol transcends cultural boundaries, appearing in diverse mythologies and spiritual traditions across the globe. From ancient China to ancient Greece, from Christian art to Daoist alchemy, the phoenix embodies universal human aspirations for immortality, renewal, and spiritual transformation.

The Phoenix in Eastern and Western Traditions

While the phoenix manifests differently across cultures, its core symbolism remains remarkably consistent.

Eastern Interpretations

Chinese Fenghuang

In Chinese mythology, the Fenghuang is an immortal bird whose rare appearance is said to be an omen foretelling harmony at the ascent to the throne of a new emperor. It signifies both male and female elements, embodying a yin-yang harmony. The name combines “feng,” representing the male aspect, and “huang,” the female. Traditionally, it is considered female and is often paired with the dragon, symbolizing marital harmony.

Japanese Hō-ō

In Japanese culture, the Hō-ō, derived from the Chinese Fenghuang, symbolizes justice, fidelity, and the divine right to rule. It is associated with auspicious omens, believed to bring peace and prosperity, and signifies the arrival of a virtuous ruler.

Western Interpretations

Greek Phoenix

In Greek mythology, the phoenix is an immortal bird that cyclically regenerates or is otherwise born again. Associated with the sun, it is said to die in flames and be reborn from its ashes, symbolizing renewal and the cyclical nature of life.

Egyptian Bennu

The Egyptian Bennu bird, akin to the phoenix, was associated with the sun god Ra and symbolized creation, resurrection, and the flooding of the Nile. It was believed to be the “ba” or soul of Ra, representing the concept of rebirth.

The Phoenix in Christianity

Although not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the phoenix found its way into Christian symbolism, representing the resurrection of Christ and the promise of eternal life. Early Christian writers drew an analogy between the phoenix and the Christian resurrection, seeing it as a symbol of immortality and renewal.

The Phoenix in Daoism

In Daoist alchemy, the phoenix is often associated with the “Golden Flower,” a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and immortality. The “Secret of the Golden Flower” is a renowned Daoist text focusing on meditation techniques aimed at achieving spiritual transformation, with the phoenix symbolizing the culmination of these practices.

The Phoenix as a Universal Symbol

The phoenix’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with deep-seated human desires for renewal, transformation, and transcendence.

  • Hope and Resilience: In times of hardship, the phoenix symbolizes hope, reminding us that new life and possibilities can emerge from despair.

  • Spiritual Growth: Its cyclical journey mirrors the spiritual path of self-discovery and continuous pursuit of enlightenment.

  • Cultural Bridge: Transcending cultural and religious boundaries, the phoenix serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and universal quest for meaning.


Footnotes:

  1. Learn more about the Fenghuang in Chinese mythology: Link to a resource on Chinese mythology

  2. Explore the symbolism of the Hō-ō in Japanese culture: Link to a resource on Japanese mythology

  3. Discover the phoenix in Greek mythology: Link to a resource on Greek mythology

  4. Read about the Bennu bird in Egyptian mythology: Link to a resource on Egyptian mythology

  5. Understand the phoenix’s role in Christian symbolism: Link to a resource on Christian symbolism

  6. Delve into the connection between the phoenix and the Golden Flower in Daoism: Link to a resource on Daoist alchemy

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Ringing in the New Year at Harrison Hot Springs: A West Coast Retreat.  Actualizing the Authentic Self.

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