Chinese Astrology

The Year of the Dragon

Marion Webb-DeSisto Jan 23, 2012

The Year of the Water Dragon

{January 23, 2012 – February 9, 2013}

 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 fifth was the Dragon and on January 23, 2012 the Year of the Water Dragon begins. In 2013 it will be followed by the Year of the Water Snake.

To the Chinese the Dragon represents power and good fortune. He is a magnificent creature, possessing vitality and strength. Dogmatic, egotistical and even eccentric are words that describe him. He may also be unreasonable, yet he will always have followers and those who admire him. The Dragon is capable of accomplishing much success and great rewards. However, he might have to curb his extreme enthusiasm in order to avoid burn out. When challenged, he will breathe fire, use intimidation and be endlessly fanatical until he wins. Don’t attempt to do battle with a Dragon unless you happen to be one yourself. Then everyone can sit back and watch the two-way incendiary onslaught.

Despite his volatile emotions, the Dragon can never be called romantic. He expects to be adored and admired. Resentment isn’t a part of his nature so he will be forgiving, once his fire-breathing is done. Of course, he will also expect you to forgive him, even though he may not offer an apology. Having a wrong to right, a goal to achieve, a cause to fight for gives his life purpose. Dragons never lie around, doing nothing. He relies on his strength to win the day and never uses trickery or guile. Being too confident can mean he might be overthrown by an enemy, who is cunning and subversive.

The element of Water allows the Dragon to put aside his ego; he is far less selfish and opinionated. He’s able to adopt a wait-and-see attitude and his common sense matches his strong will power. Being more liberal-minded than other Dragons, he can handle defeat or rejection. Water calms this forceful sign and helps him act wisely. In negotiations he will be successful because he knows when and how to apply force. His one main drawback is his unending optimism. He might try to hold onto everything and lose much. Difficult choices may need to be made in order to not pursue what is impossible or unnecessary.

Caution is thrown to the wind during a Dragon year. Ambitious, grandiose and daring projects will be pursued and our energy will be in overdrive. Businesses will prosper and money is easily available. It’s an excellent time to obtain a loan from the bank; also a great year for getting married, starting a family, or launching a new business. However, the Dragon’s good fortune might cause us to overstep any feelings of caution. We should double-check everything before taking the plunge. Just like our successes, our failures will be magnified, while the Dragon takes command. He brings many surprises, revolts and uprisings, as well as some devastating acts of nature. 2012 will definitely not be a year for the faint-hearted.

 How You Will Fare in a Dragon Year

{If you are uncertain about which animal year you were born under, click HERE, and then scroll down to the heading ‘Table of the Sixty Year Calendar’ in order to find out} 

Rat – One of the signs within the Affinity Triangle with the Dragon. This should prove to be a very good year for you. Both business and romance will blossom and appropriate financial gains and achievements are recognized. Just be careful, as you scamper about, not to allow new friends and colleagues to use you.

Ox – You will have to work hard in order to achieve your goals. Unexpected problems and changes will keep you busy. Anything you’ve planned should happen, but will take time. Other people could prove helpful and influential as you steadfastly pace your way through the dynamic year of the fiery Dragon.

Tiger – Not the best of years for you, my striped friend. Money will be scarce and don’t be persuaded by others to make unwise investments. There could be an unforeseen end to a business partnership or the separation from a loved one. Your adjustment to changes will be difficult, even when they are for your own good. Just relax and groom your fur, while you wait for a better year in 2013.

Rabbit – You’ll be reasonably happy, but definitely busy this year. An increase in wealth is unlikely, yet your gains in other areas of your life will exceed any losses. This will mean you can happily hop your way through the year, feeling contented and friendly toward others. You should also make new friends, who will prove powerful and helpful.

Dragon – This is a lucky year for you. Many benefits will be appreciated and either recognition in your area of expertise or substantial progress in your work life should come to you. It will be an exciting and super busy time, keeping your powerful mind alert. Your fire-breathing skill can be kept in reserve for a less favorable year.

Snake – The first half of the year is less rewarding than the second half. Don’t expect big bonuses in either business or your career. You may become the unfortunate recipient of associates’ jealousy and unkindness. Don’t be extravagant, continue to coil tightly around your money and wait for 2013. That will be your year, when you can strike with accuracy.

Horse – Try not to worry too much and buck against this mixed year because it could cause health problems. Your home and work affairs may seem to be unsettled, but don’t expect the worst. Things will improve as the year progresses so you shouldn’t gallop away, looking for new surroundings. The Dragon encourages you to look on the bright side, make new friends and pacify your enemies.

Sheep – No major calamities, but there may be disputes and only small gains. It will be a hectic year with difficulty in accumulating money or advancing in your career. Don’t even contemplate any gambling. Stay in your safe and familiar grazing area and avoid any drastic changes in your work and personal life. The grass is definitely greener in your own field.

Monkey – This is the other sign within the Affinity Triangle with the Dragon. It’s a year to acquire knowledge or technical expertise. What you achieve may not be immediately realized. Your agile mind will be preoccupied with various troubles and altercations. Dipping into your own savings may be necessary to fulfil your plans, but don’t complain; the Monkey is always one swing ahead of the other signs.

Rooster – The Dragon’s good fortune is with you throughout the year. A promotion or position of leadership may be offered and success is assured. However, within the farmyard there might be health problems or other frustrations that cause you to feel tense and tired. Don’t be sad; shake a tail feather and crow as each new day begins.

Dog – It will be a difficult year, but don’t snarl and show your teeth. You’ll need to work hard to maintain your status or might even have to fight off the competition. Instead of acting alone, join forces with other Dogs or compatible signs, i.e the Tiger and the Horse. You may be susceptible to infection or illness so remember to guard your own health. Good news should reach you as the year draws to a close.

Pig – A pleasant year of foraging for advancement at work and contentment at home. You can gain the support of powerful colleagues and catch the eye of superiors. Your home life will be smooth, but there is the possibility of health problems or the loss of personal belongings from the sty. Relax and maintain your easy-going nature because life in 2013 will be somewhat hectic for you.

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 Water Dragon may bring as he storms and fire-breathes his way through 2012 and into 2013. Keep things simple and have some fun.