01 Feb Gung Hay Fat Choy

2012 is the year of the Dragon. If you were born in 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988 or 2000… this is your year!

A symbol of good fortune and sign of intense power, the Dragon is regarded as a divine beast–the reverse of the malicious monster Westerners felt necessary to find and slay. In Eastern philosophy, the Dragon is said to be a deliverer of good fortune and a master of authority.

People born in the year of the Dragon are to be honoured and respected.

And, as usual, there is both good and bad news.

Good News
Dragons are free spirits. Conformation is a Dragon’s curse. Rules and regulations are made for other people. An extroverted bundle of energy, gifted and utterly irrepressible, Dragons do everything on a grand scale: big ideas, ornate gestures, extreme ambitions. However, this behavior isn’t meant for show and is rarely ostentatious.

Because they are confident and fearless in the face of challenge, they are almost inevitably successful. Look for Dragons at the top of the bill, not playing supporting roles.

Bad news
There are pitfalls to the Dragon nature. Too much enthusiasm can leave them tired and unfulfilled. Even though they are willing to help others, pride can often impede them from accepting help themselves. Dragons’ generous personalities attract friends, but they are solitary by nature. A Dragon’s self-sufficiency can mean he/she has no need for close bonds with other people.

The Water Dragon: 1952 & 2012 

Water has a calming effect on the Dragon’s temperament. Water allows Dragons to be more perceptive of others. Thus, they are better equipped to take a step back and re-evaluate a situation. Water Dragons can be patience and do not desire the spotlight like other Dragons. They generally make smart decisions and are able to see eye-to-eye with other people. However, their actions can go wrong if they do not research or if they do not finish one project before starting another.

The Wood Dragon: 1964 

Wood has a modifying influence and brings creativity to this sign. Questioning and liberal, Wood Dragons enjoy talking about original ideas and are open to other points of view. They are innovative, imaginative, practical and appreciate art. Generally less pretentious than other Dragons, Wood Dragons have the ability to get along with other people. They have the essentials to build a prosperous and happy life for themselves. Still, Wood Dragons are outspoken and at times a bit pushy, even in the most friendly discussion.

The Fire Dragon: 1976

The Fire Dragon is a Dragon doubled and thus a force to be reckoned with! The Fire Dragon can move from calm to combustible in a matter of seconds. In some ways, the Fire Dragon is his or her own worst enemy. These Dragons cannot help feeling they are valuable and all-knowing. When they are right their vehemence and vigor is an asset to the cause. When they are wrong, they are obstreperous and combative.

Though they value objectivity, Fire Dragons aren’t always very good decision makers and are prone to jumping to the wrong conclusion. They also suffer from recklessness and quick tempers. Yet, when they do keep their emotions under control, they emanate a commanding influence on other people.

The Earth Dragon: 1928 & 1988

Earth Dragons make great managers because they are practical, levelheaded and demonstrate a knack for organizing. They still have the need to dictate and be admired, but they are affable, congenial and supportive. Compared to other Dragons, Earth Dragons are less likely to breathe fire at the least irritation. They will work diligently to complete their goals.

The Earth element adds a greater portion of self-control to the Dragon’s personality and usually the Earth Dragon is deserving of the respect he or she desires. These Dragons take their life and romantic responsibilities quite seriously.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2012!