ChineseAstrology.com

2012
The Year of the Water Dragon - Ren Chen
Beginning on January 23, 2012 the flamboyant Dragon will fill the skies with fireworks as we enter into the new year of the Water (Black) Dragon!

As was the case in the previous Dragon year of 2000 twelve years ago, we find ourselves, again, bombarded by prophets of doom preaching apocalypse. Twelve years ago, as the millennium change of 2000 approached, computer experts warned of a coming collapse. This, of course, didn’t occur, but some of the "fixes" and patches put into place in hopes of circumventing problems, caused problems of their own.

As we approach the year 2012, believers and skeptics alike are studying the Mayan calendar and eschatology (the branch of theology concerned with final events or the end of the world). As a myriad of experts and self-styled prophets announce the impending end of the world on 12-21-12. What does Chinese astrology have to say on the subject?

It probably won't surprise you, but swimming against the current, it actually predicts a better future for mankind. According to this 6,000 year old art, our planet should progress quite nicely in the next two years. 2012 and 2013 correspond to the ‘lucky’ Dragon, and the ‘wise’ Snake years; the Dragon and the Snake together make up the life-palace of Spirituality.

2012 will bring opportunities to awaken your own higher consciousness and eliminate negativity, limitations and disease from your life. And if that isn't exciting enough for you, just wait until 2013's philosophical Snake year approaches bringing with it, cosmic awareness, sage spirituality, and integration with Source.

Naturally, there will be earthquakes, floods, fires, tornadoes, wars, and so on during the next two years, but according to the Chinese calendar and astral picture from the eastern perspective; there is nothing that would indicate an apocalypse or end of the world as we know it.

Think on this: Dragon years are traditionally filled with Pageantry, Festivals and elaborate Celebrations. These years hold potential extravagance, grandiose ambitions and futuristic enterprises which soar to the forefront with drama. The essence of Dragon years is ' unpredictability’, and the average Dragon year will be exhausting, bringing both spectacular victories and some memorable defeats.

Unlike the other animals of the Chinese zodiac, the Dragon is a mythical creature, and the sign of good luck and vital health. Unlike the frightening Dragons of Western mythology, Chinese Dragons are benevolent creatures who live in the heavens and command the cosmos; wind, mist, rain, thunder and lightning.

Dragon years, as those born into them, are traditionally: unpredictable, flashy, dramatic and full of life. Have fun with the showy, the swanky and the flashy sides of life.

2012 opens communication to the inner spiritual planes (as above, so below) and the opportunity for humanity to receive Divine guidance. 2012 will be a very special time for humankind …Let the Dragon  lend you his wings to progress beyond what you think is possible for yourself. The reward will be an understanding of personal truths that may, very well, change your life forever.

Wishing you the happiest of New Years!
May life bless you abundantly,

Shelly Wu
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Individual sign forecasts for 2012
For 4,000 years, the Chinese people have looked to the yearly almanac (tong shu) and it's "Spring Ox Chart" for the yearly forecast. Below is the Spring Ox chart for 2012 with translation following.
2012 Ren Chen year:

The Spring Ox is four feet tall and eight feet long from head to tail. The
Spring Ox has a black head, yellow body and black belly. His tail, horns
and ears are green, his neck is yellow, and his hooves are white. The tail
swings to the left; his mouth is opened. The string tied through his nose
is white silk.
The caretaker is three feet, six-and-a-half inches tall, and he is a child.
His clothes are green and his belt is white. The caretaker wears shoes.
His hair is arranged with the both sides bunched in front of the ear.
Pant legs are tied up. The caretaker stands to the left and behind the
Spring Ox.
Translation:

This year there is a transition from bad luck to good luck. Things improve
this year and there will be a bountiful harvest. The harvest is plentiful
because there is good germination and the seeds emerge easily from the soil.
However, when the crops are harvested there is less than expected due to the
smaller size of the plants. Partial recovery of economy, but not complete due to the severity of previous years. As things slowly start to improve, people will be less irritable and more forgiving with one another. The turbulence
in the world should calm down for a time. All in all a good year. However,
the cost of living may be higher. Traveling to the East or West bring the best
luck.Traveling North is good, but be careful when traveling to the South.


Rat: Placed in an auspicious "Trine" with 2012's Dragon
year, Rat/mouse year natives learn tolerance and acquire
a "different" kind of wisdom. Your specialty is living unseen
as you specialize in managing the hidden, the fringe and the
unseen parts of society. Your view of the hidden from
this lower "below" vantage point, comes together with the
Dragons talent for visionary projects and "seeing from above".
This is an unstoppable combination and the insights available
to you this year could fill volumes! (You ARE keeping a journal
aren't you?) Many of those born into Rat years have a talent for
writing and most are masters of both the verbal and written word.
2012 would be an optimal time for you to assemble a "body of work"
into a portfolio or proposal. Best months for Rats: Jan 2012, March,
April, August, and Jan 2013. Most challenging months: June & July.



Ox: A year for Oxen to be very cautious -- to 'walk softly'
as they say however, 'carrying a big stick' is optional ...
Your tolerance and 'endurance' could be sorely tested
throughout 2012 and if any health issues are brewing,
this could be the year that these ailment may surface.
The boastful Dragon taking center stage will fray even
the most stoic Oxen's nerves. A year to accentuate your
domestic, docile side and a year when even great effort
must defer to small steps to get anything accomplished.
Methodically practice your trade or craft, being meticulous
with your health habits and supremely cautious regarding
accidents. Keep an eagle eye on 2009 born & 1997 born
Oxen youth (especially boys) for physical injuries. 1937 &
1949 born Oxen must pay special attention to health. Best
months for Oxen: Dec 2011, May, September, and Dec 2012.
Most challenging months: July & June and be particularly
cautious throughout August 2012.



Tiger: While Tigers and Dragons can work very well together,
this is a case of "who is in charge?" Both hard-core YANG,
forward moving signs, tolerance is the key for Tigers to survive
Dragon years. While the Dragons 'confidence' looks more like
conceit to your direct eyes, there is great wisdom available in
this vibration for you this year. Truthfully, don't you get weary
of others always admonishing you to "slow down" "quiet down"
"sit down" etc? Well, those are sentiments that you will seldom
hear from a Dragon individual or experience in a Dragon year,
for that matter. 2012 should play out just how your noble soul
 likes it - on the go, forthright & passionate! Not a good year
for making long term commitments whether they be personal
or professional. Best months for Tigers: June, October and
especially November 2012! Most challenging months: May
& August.



Rabbit: While a devoted friend and well-mannered companion, the "combatant" energies of 2012's Dragon year won't seem to appreciate your Rabbit brand of "assistance". The Dragon vibrations are "autonomous" and rarely respond to unsolicited advice. It may be difficult for you to determine when to act and when to stay neutral this year. Rabbit natives reacting to this year's difficult karmic combatant vibration, may find themselves running for the comfort of their safe boroughs more often than not. Other people seem so brash, the world so loud, the lights too bright, and Rabbit natives ruminate on quieter, less demanding times. My best advice is to 'put on your dancing shoes' and take advantage of this year's 'audience' to showcase your many creative ventures. Best months for Rabbits: July, October and November. Most challenging months: March, April & especially, September.



Dragon: Tolerance for those of lesser wit or wisdom, could prove to be a challenge for capable Dragons in 2012. Much around you seems pointless and mundane - so it's only natural that you will decree "it's time to liven up this party!" The question is: Will you begin by designing a future utopian society or simply organize a global world movement? Will you discover the next viable natural energy source or find a cure for the Ebola virus? Whatever it is, we your humble servants, will give you a standing ovation this year!  Dramatic Dragons dance and dart from one social situation to another and they can find stimulating company with a capable Rooster, organized Rat or persuasive Monkey. Dragons uphold high standards for themselves and others and will have the opportunity to accomplish great things in 2012. However, being your own sign year (your Tai Sui) you must be cautious as well - Drive carefully to avoid accidents and be on the lookout for any disharmony in the family, particularly with siblings.
Best months for Dragons: April, August, September and December 2012.
Most difficult months:  March, April & October.  
Best harmony for: 1952 Water Dragons, 1940 & 2000 Metal Dragons, 1964 Wood Dragons.
Challenging year for: 1976 Fire Dragons, 1988 & 1928 Earth Dragons.


 
Snake: 2012 promises to be an auspicious year for Snakes. Dragon years generally bring good fortune and happiness to philosophical Snake natives, as the Snake and the Dragon complete the life palace of 'spirituality'. Adding the Dragon’s brand of showmanship wisdom to your own, you could make a special kind of magic happen this year! The most alluring women and influential men are born into Snake years, and throughout 2012 sage Snakes will be fortunate in obtaining what they need. Always a passionate lover, treat yourself to some special moments with a mercurial Monkey (your soul mate) a home loving Ox or an industrious Rooster. Many Snakes could decide to marry this year, but female Snakes must be cautious to prevent gynecological issues or miscarriage. Be gentle with yourself and take care of your health, even if an illness seems trivial. Best months for Snakes: April, August, September and January 2013. Most difficult months:  February, & November. 



Horse: Your social contacts are important to you, but hassled Horses may have to be content with being fascinating from a distance in 2012.Your legendary strength and physical prowess hits a weak point during this year's Dragon watch. This difficult vibration could make its presence known in very physical terms throughout the year. Attend to any illness or injury promptly and be sure to eat well and get enough rest. Even though you may feel a bit out of it, the Dragon year can't completely dampen your spirits. Working hard will produce a much healthier looking bank account and better long term financial stability. Good luck regarding inheritance or benefactors who come to your aid. 1966 Fire Horses, 1978 Earth Horses and 1954 Wood Horses must be cautious around water, boats or when swimming this year. Best months for Horses: Feb 2012, July & October.
Most difficult months:  Jan 2012, April, December, Jan 2013. 



Goat: Dragon years can have an interesting effect on artistic Goat year natives. Normally mellow and good natured, in 2012 Goats could be a bit outspoken (o.k.. argumentative) just for the sake of argument. Try to keep any debates friendly and remember that it is alright to agree to disagree on certain things. At your best, you are artistic and creative - at your worst, you feel insulted by others and sulk. Come on now, you know it's true...Great news for the single Goats (especially females) looking for love in 2012. Both sexes may find themselves saying "I do" this year. Enjoy a long liaison with a handsome Horse, a romantic Rabbit or a passionate Pig. Career is another high point for you during 2012. It is an auspicious time for you to start a new or improve an existing business. 2012 is a year for Goats (esp. 1979 Earth Goats & 1967 Fire Goats) to be cautious around water, the ocean, lakes, rivers or while swimming. Best months for Goats: March, April, June, July and November. Most difficult months:  Jan 2012, September, and October. 



Monkey: The Mercurial Monkey is the natural sidekick and strategist to the powerful Dragon. Dragon years are good ones for those born into Monkey years. You are capable now of handling the most sensitive matters, but you may become restless waiting on the side-lines gearing up to be called upon. Frustrating, especially in light of the transformations and plans you have in mind! Merry Monkeys will have a prosperous and happy year, but be aware that others may envy your success. Everything will happen for a reason in 2012 and the term "meaningful coincidence" will take on new meaning. Single Monkeys could find their future mates, married Monkeys renew their commitments and a new member to the family is not out of the question. Avoid attending funerals unless for your immediate family and avoid taking the advice of others, especially regarding anything you could be held liable for, such as taxes, legal issues, etc. Best months for Monkeys: April, May, September and December 2012. Most difficult months:  February, June, July, and August. 



The Rooster and Dragon are soul mates and 2012 promises to be a stellar one for plucky Roosters. The industrious Rooster is many times the power behind the achievement oriented Dragon's throne. If adulation is what you seek, 2012 will  definitely  bring that to a peak! Even losses work in your favor this year - any losses balance your karma and cancel any bad luck for you. Roosters (especially 1933 Water Roosters & 1981 Metal Roosters) will enjoy very good luck, harmony within their family AND unattached Roosters have an excellent chance at finding their future partners this year. Do be cautious that spending doesn't get out of control. This may be difficult due to so many good opportunities that will be presented to you.
Best months for Roosters: Jan 2012, April, May, August, and Jan 2013.
Most difficult months:  March, September & October. 



Dog: The self-confident Dragon and the self-depreciating Dog are in a direct 180 degree opposition with each other. And like most true opposites, this Dragon/Dog combo is a complicated one at best. Dutiful Doggies generally work pretty hard not to give into their tendency to be "prophets of doom" but during 2012 - they may have to "just go with it!" The fact is, we all get our astral "turn" to experience "contrast" in our lives which helps us to appreciate the good times and value our blessings. Difficult things tend to happen to the family members and loved ones of the Dog while the Dragon is in charge...The Dragon rules by divine right, is celestial and commands the cosmos - you Dog friend, don't feel worthy of ruling anything and are of the humble, earthy variety. Keep your presence of mind and a calm heart. Meditate, ruminate and stay watchfully on the porch for just a bit. The good news is, that the oppositions "open the money vault" for the other. Good cash flow in 2012 with the opportunity (should you desire) for public appearances. Best months for Dogs: February, March & June. Most difficult months:  April, May, August & Sept.



Pig: Considering the bumps and bruises life has thrown in your path during the past few years, recovery may be in sight. The most powerful energy of Chinese astrology, the Emperor or Zi Wei star is shining on honest Pigs during 2012. Single Pigs find compatible suitors and you will find that you have many supporters surrounding you. Regarding romance relationships, look for best compatibility with an assertive Tiger, talented Rabbit or good-natured Goat. Pragmatic Pigs who work in IT or with computers must avoid eye strain, headaches or fatigue from spending too many hours under artificial lighting or in front of a CRT screen. In the absence of exhaustion, your career should go quite well during 2012 and there may be a chance for promotion. Get a good check-up before summer, if only to reassure yourself that you are fit as a fiddle! Best months for Pigs: February, March, April and July. Most difficult months:  May, August, Nov & Dec.  

 
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