The Year of the Tiger

Marion Webb-DeSisto Feb 13, 2010

The Year of the Metal Tiger

{February 14, 2010 - February 2, 2011}

Have you ever wondered why the signs in Chinese Astrology are represented by twelve animals? Well, the story goes that when Lord Buddha was ready to leave the earth plane, he sent out a message to the animal kingdom, telling them he was about to depart. He invited the animals to come and wish him "Goodbye," but only twelve different ones accepted his offer. The order in which each one arrived then laid down the progression of the Chinese Astrological Years. The Rat came first, followed by the Ox, the Tiger, the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Snake, the Horse, the Sheep, the Monkey, the Rooster, the Dog and the Pig. The animal which arrived third was the Tiger and on February 14, 2010 the Year of the Metal Tiger begins. In 2011 it will be followed by the Year of the Metal Rabbit.

Within Chinese Astrology the Tiger symbolizes power, passion and courage. He can be rebellious and unpredictable and is held in awe by many. The Tiger is also venerated as the sign that keeps at bay fires, thieves and hauntings within the home. His vivacious nature can be contagious and people never feel indifferent toward him. He loves to be the center of attention and can be both a reckless and hasty decision maker. Yet at other times he may vacillate. Trusting others does not come easily to him and he is quick-tempered. However, he is also loving, giving and sincere, and has a wonderful sense of humor. People, who are born under the sign of the Tiger, hold a love of children and animals. They frequently show interest in humanitarian projects, as well.

Some Tigers explore a bohemian life-style, particularly within their youth, and may become artists, writers, or actors. They enjoy being in the limelight, but their work/talent is never conventional. At least once in his life the Tiger will undertake unexpected and impulsive actions and he is forever the rebel. Faced with misfortune, depression, or unhappiness he always rebounds with a feeling of hope. His wonderful sense of humor will carry him through all difficulties. Being obstinate and unreasonable on occasion, this sign is equally kind and caring when needed. In addition, the Tiger is renowned for his skill in swaying a crowd. He is an excellent leader, but frequently enjoys his own company rather than that of his followers.

Metal is the element for the 2010 Tiger and this makes him anything but reticent. He is forceful and fanatical and can be untiring in his work and interests. This particular Tiger likes to “cut a dash” and may be self-centred. Always optimistic about the end result he is plagued by wanting too much too soon. Independence is vital to him and he might take sudden, radical and unusual actions in order to reach his goal. Stepping on toes in the process is not a problem for him. All-in-all, he is a freedom lover who cannot be caged or ignored.

Tiger years are usually bumpy rides and can bring disasters, e.g. Watergate and Nixon’s resignation in 1974, as well as wars, e.g. WWI began in 1914; the Korean War began in 1950. They can also precede world-wide conflicts, e.g. in 1938 Hitler gained Czechoslovakia’s Sudetenland and the infamous Kristallnacht took place in Germany and Austria. As a further example, Operation Moshtarak, which is the major offensive against the Taliban in Afghanistan, has begun just one day before the start of this Tiger year. Fortunes can be won and lost and nothing will be done on a small scale. Companies, ventures and political regimes that have been failing may become injected with new life and bold, but contentious, ideas will take hold. Our tempers flare during Tiger years, and then we live to regret our hot-headed acts. Yet these fiery, unpredictable times can also be cleansing so keep your sense of fun as you pace with the Tiger through this explosive year.

How You Will Fare in a Tiger Year

Ox – A difficult year of dealing with opposition from all sides. Be patient and take no unnecessary risks while you tread slowly and steadily through the months. End results may not come quickly, but your perseverance will prevail providing you don’t allow the Tiger to lead you into drastic behavior.

Tiger – Luck is with you during your year and other people will come to your aid when you need them. Even so, don’t take risks or stalk in unfamiliar places. Groom your stripped fur and lie in wait for your rewards. You may have to spend money and not be able to save, but no major illness or turmoil will hamper you throughout this year.

 Rabbit – Lawsuits or disputes are possible and be very cautious about signing documents or parting with money. Try to be diplomatic and don’t get drawn into unexpected arguments and conflicts. In the latter months and as your own year approaches, things will improve and you might make gains, as well. So wait out the year in the safety and comfort of your burrow.

Dragon – Even though you are thought to be the luckiest animal within Chinese Astrology, a Tiger year does not bring you good fortune. It is extremely difficult to achieve what you want without arguments and conflict. It will be necessary to choose a side and breathe fire at the opposition. Others block what you plan and on the home front there might be some form of bad news.

Snake – There could be a number of minor irritations and disagreements caused by others. It will be just about impossible to please those who surround you at home and work, but don’t lose your sense of humor. Stay cool and coil into a relaxing position. If you avoid pointless acts of revenge, help will be given and you will slither past major disruption.

Horse – This is the first sign that lies within the Affinity Triangle with the Tiger. It will be a year that keeps you moderately happy with no health problems and plenty of entertaining pursuits. Try not to lose your temper because this could lead to disputes and/or broken friendships. There might be unforeseen expenses, but also advances within your creative aims and profession as you trot through the year.

Sheep – A year of mixed events. You will need to work hard in order to stay abreast of the opposition. Although life within your immediate family will be smooth, there may be problems with other relatives so only graze with those who are close to you. This will be a busy year work wise, but there is also the opportunity to make new and helpful connections.

Monkey – Definitely not a time for pursuing new ventures. You are very vulnerable to those who oppose you and may have to swing away into new surroundings. There is also the possibility of having to borrow money at a high interest. Lie low and keep your quick-witted personality intact so that you are well-prepared for a much brighter year in 2011.

Rooster – Quite an eventful year for you because your scratching and pecking will yield money and successful business enterprises. Profits may happen very fast so give them a full appraisal and don’t be over-optimistic. There may be some concerns about your brood, but in general things go according to plan.

Dog – This is the second sign that lies within the Affinity Triangle with the Tiger. Nothing too serious either at home or work will take place this year. However, your dogged loyalty to family and friends may bring extra demands on you and there might even be some minor romantic disagreements. Just don’t growl too loudly if you feel confused and uncertain of the outcome.

Pig – Not a good year for you, there will be difficulties that only you can face. Money could be scarce due to such unexpected costs as fines, legal fees, or extra taxes. Borrowing or paying back money will also prove problematic so don’t venture into anything new that associates might offer. Stay close to your own sty and only forage on familiar ground.

Whatever your sign, remember life is full of ups and downs. If this year brings difficulties, as the cycle moves on to another sign, they will disappear and be replaced by good fortune. There is always balance in the universe. So try to enjoy whatever the Metal Tiger may bring as he prowls his way through 2010 and into 2011. Keep things simple and have some fun.

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