By Dr Leah Leach
The Year of the Dragon (Feb 10, 2024 – Feb 27, 2025) is a time of transformation, growth, and surprise opportunities. It is a year filled with powerful energy to destroy old forms and bring in the new. A time to break yourself open.
As the founder of Gal’s Guide and as a woman in a time where it (still) feels impossible to be a woman, I set forth these aspirations and intentions for all to see.
I will recognize that the self is not a fixed identity, it takes many forms. To navigate life it takes many skills, talents, and observations. I will not need to be good at all things but I can change my mind when I learn something new. I will challenge myself to move beyond the personal to the betterment of others. I will not feed into polarization or antagonism. Instead, I will focus on connectedness and expansive ways of being. I will be mindful of moments and situations that are not for me and not against me. I will continue to work towards a mind that rests without judgment – just seeing things as they are. I will protect my children and my love like a mother dragon guarding her cave. I will continue to love fiercely.
It’s been 18 months since Lama Tsultrim Allione bestowed a new name on me. The first American woman to be ordained as a Tibetan nun looked at my picture and chose a name for me.
I hesitated using the name because I feared you would hate me.
Change is scary. Identity can appear fixed. One more thing to remember. And the ever-popular phrase in my life, “Who does she think she is?”
All I can answer is that I want to be a better person. I want to be able to send more positive ripples in the world. I want to be mindful and useful. I want to be the mountain of jewels that Lama saw me as.
I’m changing my name to Riwo. (Pronounced Ree-woo). It’s the name that Lama gave me and it means “mountain”. I like it because I’m a big girl, so it physically makes sense. But also because a mountain represents being grounded, in tune with the earth, and resting in a solid foundation. A mountain can also be a platform for others to climb on, soar higher, and take in a new view.
The name is a reminder to me of my commitment to my Buddhist path, a connection to my teacher, and my intention to be of benefit to others.
From this point forward I’m introducing myself as Riwo and writing more as Riwo, but I’ll still answer in any way you remember me.
Books & Love,
Riwo
If you’d like to know more about my name change journey, check out What’s In A Name?
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