February is considered to be the beginning of spring in Japan, and it therefore symbolises the start of the growing season, and the promise of plentiful harvests after a warm and benevolent summer.

February also heralds the Lunar New Year in the East. Just as in the West, where we refer to the planets and constellations in Astrology, in the East, there is a 12-year sequence of animals to represent the differing influences acting upon us on the Earth plane, and this year in Japan it is the Year of the Sheep.

In contrast to the energy and drive of the preceding year – the year of the Horse – the Sheep has an entirely different set of energies. It represents plenty of ability, intelligence, and the potential for very productive cooperation, but it is a sign which definitely calls for discrimination.

Kendo points out that in Sheep years, there are potentially things around us which would seek to deceive us, and we may see lots of self-serving activity in others which we may find disappointing. This illustrates that in Sheep years, we need to be highly discriminating, careful, and selective, and we must avoid resenting those things of which we may disapprove and have no power to change.

Kendo tells us that by cultivating the right mind-set through meditation, we stand to benefit a great deal in Sheep years. Above all, we need strength – strength of conviction, strength in our right motives, strength to be clear and not distracted by nonsense, and strength to help lead others when they may not be able to find their own strength. All these things, Kendo points out, are aspects of Bushido, which should come naturally to the true spiritual warrior. In doing all this, we not only heal ourselves, but much that is around us also.

However, as we are all under the influence of the Sheep, we will need to remain vigilant to ensure that we are staying on the right track, that our thoughts are clear, and that our meditations are deep and empowering, so that what we allow into our minds and intentions is true.

Thus inspired by the spiritual samurai, we can capitalise upon the intelligence and potential for joint endeavour which exists in the year of the Sheep, and by being spiritually vigilant, we will greatly strengthen and refine our essential essences. We will find that many are receptive to us, and if we have the right message and the right foundation, we will be a true force for progress.

Therefore, with the promise of spring arriving in February, and with the refining and discriminating impetus of the Year of the Sheep, we can begin this new Lunar year with optimism and determination. By being thus inspired by Kendo Nagasaki, we will be strong and positive and influential in a time which could deliver nebulous and confusing challenges to those around us.

May the Way of the Warrior guide and inspire you always.