The Koi and The Dragon
A tale of perseverance and transformation
Let me tell you a story.
It’s a story about the Japanese/Chinese legend of the koi fish that turned into a dragon. It is a powerful tale of perseverance and transformation.
It tells the story of a humble koi that lived in the sea and aspired to know a different life, a vaster world, and have more diverse experiences. The koi set his mind and began to swim upstream against the strong currents of the Yellow River. Despite the grueling journey, the fish never gave up. The koi met many different creatures, who each helped the fish along its quest. Even animals and demons who tried to eat or hinder it actually helped the koi develop skills, confidence, and resolve.
After struggling for years, the determined koi finally reached a legendary waterfall known as the "Dragon Gate". Many others had quit and let the river sweep them back downstream, but this koi persevered. Summoning all its strength and courage, the koi made a final, massive leap over the top of the waterfall.
Seeing this incredible display of resilience and determination, the Jade Emperor rewarded the koi. As a symbol of their respect, they transformed the brave fish into a mighty, golden dragon, allowing it to soar through the skies for eternity.
“Cool story Ed, but why are you telling us?”
If you read my post titled “10 Years”, you know that I just hit the 10 year milestone for quitting alcohol.
That story of the koi fish IS my story and also the story for so many others going through a similar journey.
Here's what I know to be true from living it:
It will be hard. Whether swimming up the river or navigating the daily social challenges that will tempt you. It will be hard but you gotta keep going.
You can’t do it alone. No matter what you tell yourself, you can’t do it alone. The koi fish had help from friend and foe. I had support from Meredith/Gracie and so many friends that did not question, just supported.
You will transform. This much is inevitable. You start to get clarity on yourself and what is important to you in life. Who has your back and who was never really there. I personally think I am now a much better person, dad, husband, friend, and colleague. I'm more present now than I ever was before. And I don't take that for granted.
I have two tattoos as visual reminders of my journey so far. After my first year sober, I commissioned a Japanese style Phoenix to represent pulling myself up from the ashes. After my fifth year, I commissioned a Japanese style Dragon to represent my strength and resolve on the journey.
Hitting my tenth year, I realized I did not have my little koi fish. The one that started it all. The scrappy fish at the bottom of the river who decided to swim upstream when everything was telling him to go with the current. So in June, I’m getting my koi fish tattoo.
I don’t think the journey ever ends. I’m not sure if I’ve jumped the Dragon Gate waterfall yet. But this will help me physically and mentally tell my story, and keep me on track.
I hope you remember this tale of a scrappy fish turned magnificent dragon whenever you or a loved one needs it.
And, I can’t wait to show you my new ink.
-Ed