taphor
p with water. My 111
ents for watering that
r example, my ferns
th high humidity while
Water is fundamental
to all religions and is
part of their rituals. The
Chinese zodiac, which is the
foundation of the feng shui system, may dictate our
connection with water. My element, water, is one
of the five fixed elements of the Chinese zodiac; the
others are wood, fire, earth, and metal. Stated very
simply, metal carries water and water feeds wood;
earth absorbs water and water quenches fire. Your
birth year dictates your sign.
Water has become a metaphor for life. We speak
of smooth sailing, sea of grief, and troubled waters.
The song ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water,’ written by
Paul Simon with vocals by Art Garfunkel, comes
to mind. The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic
has forced many of us to press the pause button.
However, our ARTA officers and staff were not
afforded that luxury. Following recommended
protocols and working from home with increased
domestic responsibilities, they have maintained
basic office services. In league with our partner
organizations, our travelling members have been
assisted. ARTA has even forged ahead with new
developments that our rapidly growing membership
will soon appreciate. They became our ‘bridge over
troubled waters.’ For this dedicated service under
difficult conditions, I extend my heartfelt thanks
and raise my glass of water (well, ninety per cent
water!) to all of you. ●
news&views SUMMER 2020 | 5