"The umbrella" , by Erik Pevernagie, oil on canvas, 100 x 80 cm

Although life gives us a range of choices, everything is a matter of perception. Where some see the light, others see darkness. Where some feel openness and expectation, others feel fear and danger. Where some are influenced by yin, others are dominated by yen. Where some are guided by trust, others are confined into suspicion.

Some will prefer to bridge the two opposing elements and will both trust their umbrella and suspect the rain to come.

When a storm of harassment disturbs our thinking and brings us down to our knees, the umbrella of our imagination can shield us against destructive aggression. It offers shelter and teaches us how to conquer ourselves, train our resilience, and grit our teeth.

Let us not be afraid of stilling our mind and having mercy with ourselves, and allowing us patience to recover from our dazzling unawareness or the inferno of overwhelming hassle.

Since life consists of both 'passion' and 'patience, 'endurance' must be honored. We must not ruminate on lost cases and waste precious mental time, creating imaginary scenarios about taking thirsty revenge. Why not choose, instead, to dump barren and gnawing resentments or destructive anger?

The umbrella is a practical example of "perception." The umbrella may mean protection or a shield against bad weather. Still, for traditional Indians, it is a symbol of wealth and status.

In ancient Greece, the umbrella was a necessary item for a lady to carry; it was a sign of men's effeminacy. For Freud, it would lead us, together with any elongated objects, to another interpretation: the embodiment of the male member.

Whereas the umbrella in Hong Kong is a widespread accessory used against the sun and pepper sprays, the bank manager will only lend you an umbrella if it shines.

Phenomenon: symbol of protection

Factual starting point: person with