Feeling caged...

Years ago, I discovered Chinese astrology - the Eastern-style zodiac which pairs you with an animal and an element according to the year you were born. I became fascinated by it and discovered that my element/animal was a Wood Tiger. Of course, I got all giddy because I love tigers to begin with. But some Chinese men (the old, wise ones) believe a Tiger-woman is not the ideal type of mate. She is hot-natured, territorial, impossible to control, and she gets bored very, very easily.

So I wonder, like all of us that turn to constellations and ancient zodiacs for answers, is this why I always feel the urge to do a Forrest Gump and just start running??? (Don’t get me wrong, I have a great life: a wonderful husband, a happy-go-lucky daughter, a blossoming writing career, family, friends, a nice booty, blah, blah.)

I am just not one of those people who values putting down roots. I get antsy when I am in one place for too long. I start to stare at the horizon. I start to look at maps of other countries on the internet. I sift through lists of volunteer programs abroad. I start to look at photos of my one-time experiences volunteering in Spain, visiting a friend in Paris, strolling alone through the back-alley streets of Londontown. My favorite memories are of those when I was alone, exploring, free as a bird, not knowing where I would be next...

And I start to feel restless, like a tiger in a cage who paces around wishing she could be out testing the boundaries of her territory, climbing high mountains, descending deep into lush forests, exploring the most hidden areas of the world, going fearlessly into the unknown.

I may start believing in reincarnation...just to keep my sanity. If I do come back, I know exactly what I’ll choose to come back as. In the meantime, I’m going to go check the price on some airfares. :)