As with many of life’s sayings, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly who said exactly what, but it seems that philosopher, poet, and novelist George Santayana said it first:
Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.
This common phrase has an implied directive beyond simply learning about history’s mistakes: we must take intentional action to not repeat them. Nothing changes if nothing changes.
And 2025 is nothing if not a time for change.
In the Chinese Zodiac, it’s the Year of the Snake, specifically the Wood Snake. The snake represents wisdom, transformation, and personal growth, while the wood element adds flexibility and renewal to this year’s themes.
Around the world, snakes symbolize rebirth, as the very act of shedding their skin is a powerful metaphor for letting go of the old and embracing the new. They also represent healing and protection.
No one said rebirth would be easy, but we’ve got the snake to accompany us on our journey. I’m looking forward to helping the world shed all the violence and oppression we’ve far outgrown.
It’s a season of changeAnd if you feel strange
It’s probably good
— ARCADE FIRE
so beautiful ✨ the message, the illustration, the song! thank you!!!
Your snake artwork is amazing!!! I love the texture and shape in it! The video was so fun, too! Great post, Jenn!