by Andrew Wang
Mystical Powers of the Crane
Crane mythology can be found in India, the Aegean, South Arabia, China, Korea, Japan, and Native American cultures of North America. In many Asian cultures, the crane represents good fortune and longevity. In Imperial China, where symbols depicted on a person’s robes designated their rank and status, the crane stood for wisdom and immortality. In Korea, the crane, known as durumi, was similarly a symbol of longevity. In Japan, the crane or tsuru, is a national treasure and referred to as the “bird of happiness.”
The crane was fabled to possess a life span of 1,000 years. Its wings were used as an amulet against exhaustion and tiredness, because people admired it for untiring strength in flight.
Folding 1,000 Paper Cranes
Like podcasting, origami, the Japanese art of paper-folding, is a creative activity that requires dedication. Further, an ancient Japanese legend promises that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted happiness and eternal good luck. To this day, many Japanese string together a thousand origami cranes for whatever wish they want to come true.
Putting it all together, the crane has mystical and positive significance. The required focus and consistency needed to fold 1,000 origami cranes can serve as inspiration for Asian American podcasters and our community of Asian American podcasters to excel, win good fortune, and succeed.
Whether you have a podcast or about to launch one, Asian American Podcasters wants to help you soar!
Andrew Wang’s is the host of Inspired Money. He is also co-founder of Asian American Podcasters. Click here to join AAP!