Phoenix (bird)
<p>As a start I  think it is valuable
to explore the choice of Phoenix for the catalyzing image-   it is a
rich symbol with mythological references in many cultures and time
periods.  I was interested to see that it has been a Christian
metaphor for the resurrection of Christ, Vishnu's  (Hindu) divine
vehicle Garuda, Quetzacoatl's (Aztec) divine vehicle, the emblem on
Chemist shops symbolizing alchemy, A symbol for the rebirth and
perpetual existence of the Roman Empire; in Japanese mythology it is
associated with the Sun, rectitude & justice while in Chinese
mythology it takes on a very deep meaning as one of the Four Sacred
Creatures and like the dragon it is both yin and yang. As yang, it is
the solar, fire bird; but in the Yin aspect it denotes beauty,
delicacy of feeling, and peace. As a bridal symbol it signifies the
"inseparable fellowship"  of yin and yang itself , cosmic forces of
duality in eternal mutual interdependence.</p>