Long ago and still to this day, the Chinese use the Lunar cycle to follow time. The first cycle was introduced in the year 2637 B.C. A complete lunar cycle is 60 years and is made up of 12 cycles. Where the animal signs come in, is when Lord Buddha summoned all the animals to his kingdom so as to say goodbye to him before he departed from this earth. Only twelve showed up and to show his appreciation he named a year after them in order of its arrival. Every twelve years the sign repeats itself and you start all over again. Look at the signs year dates bearing in mind that Chinese New Year is different every year, mid-Jan-mid Feb and find out which is your sign by going through 12-year increments from your birth year.

CHINESE NEW YEAR FEBRUARY 5TH 

Pigs have a beautiful personality and are blessed with good fortune in life.

Years of the Pig: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031

Personality and characteristics

Pigs might not stand out in a crowd. But they are very realistic. Others may be all talk and no action. Pigs are the opposite.

The steadfast Pig (2019) is, of all the signs, one of honesty and of real genuine person. The pig is the ultimate diplomat, balancing both sides and keeping the peace. The pig is those people that make everything happen with ease so as you do not notice it even happening, but notice if they are not there. They socialize very well and like to be in the company of up and coming people, though they prefer to watch from a distance. Excellent in the line of fundraising and social work, the pig does not mind being truly committed to the cause. The pig is a little too trusting and allows themselves to be exploited by others without knowing it. In love, the pig is devoted and does everything for their loved ones except perhaps discipline them well, as they do not like confrontation. The pig is unselfish and caring and is very good to have as a friend if their motives are not interfering or judgmental.

Though not wasteful spenders, they will let themselves enjoy life. They love entertainment and will occasionally treat themselves. They are a bit materialistic, but this is motivation for them to work hard. Being able to hold solid objects in their hands gives them security.

They are energetic and are always enthusiastic, even for boring jobs. If given the chance, they will take positions of power and status. They believe that only those people have the right to speak, and that’s what they want.

Men born in the Pig year are optimistic and gentle. They are very focused. Once they decide on a goal, they’ll put everything into it.

They are not the best with money. Though cool-headed, they are also gullible. They trust others easily and are often scammed. This can cause them to lose a fortune.

These men are also quiet. They love learning but don’t really know how to put their knowledge into words. They’re not conversationalists, but treat everyone warmly. This results in a large social circle. Whenever they run into difficulties, there are always people who stand up to help. Though people will lie to them, more will love them.

Women born in the Pig year are full of excitement. They attend social events whenever possible and treat everyone genuinely. Combined with their easy going personality, they gain everyone’s trust.

However, they are sometimes over-friendly. In their excitement, they can forget to give others personal space.

They also have good fortune with wealth. As long as they keep at it, the efforts will not go to waste. Though they don’t start with an advantage, their hard work will keep money flowing in.

At home, they are highly organized. If the room is messy, they’d stay up the entire night to clean it up. These women love children too. Playing with children is one of the things that bring them the greatest joy.

 First came the Rat in the sequence

Rat years: …1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020…

First came the Rat, (1997) with its charm and innovative personality the rat uses it’s wit and intelligence and has been known to be crafty, forthright and an excellent businessman/woman, who is always alert to new opportunities. The rat is much underestimated, due to the very fact that it is a rat. They are very intuitive gregarious and smart people who will use their charm and smarts to get them to the top. Never underestimate them, they do not miss a thing and remember a lot. Whereas the tiger, horse, and others are on the forefront, the rat does not mind taking the back stairs to get where they are going. They know they will get there and are not afraid to give someone else the limelight.

• OX Year of Birth: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021

Then came the Ox, 2009 prosperous through fortitude and hard work, the Ox is dependable, calm methodical and stubborn. Many Ox ‘s hold positions of power and their fairness holds them in good stead. They like order, respect, tradition, and are predictable and honest. Alas in love the Ox does not quite know how to respond to romance but when they like you they will stand by you, loyally, but also may take a long time to commit, be patience they are solid people and worth waiting for. Although they have a lot of patience do not try it on to much, because when they lose it, it will be a terrifying experience. The rooster seems to understand the Ox best and the Goat and Tiger will not get along well at all. Give them time to their stuff; it is worth waiting for the results.

Tiger Year of Birth: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022

Now comes the Tiger. (2010) Powerful, passionate, rebellious and unpredictable. The Tiger is our fearless fighter, and people hold them in awe. They love the limelight and their dynamic personality can open many doors. They live life as if it is their center stage, and people around them are there to enhance the play. With their charisma, they get away with lots and can talk others into doing things for them just because they are tigers. They have a very human side showing love and affection for babies and animals. As a lover when they love they love 100% for that moment till their attention is directed elsewhere, to sustain their attention you must give them a lot of attention. They live purely on impulse and rebellion on tradition. Logic is not their thing. The song by Carle Simon, “you’re so vain you probably think this song is about you”. May have been written for the tiger. However, the tiger who can be warm loving and great with kids can also be a child themselves if they do not get their way. For all this, the tiger is a formidable foe and one to definitely have in your court.

RabbitYears of birth: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023

The Rabbit (2011) is said to have a long life, the rabbit is gracious kind sensitive, and has good manners. They look for tranquillity but are also inclined to be moody. They appear indifferent and generally hold academic positions. Although they appear to be detached they hold much criticism inside. Good at business and smooth negotiations will ensure a good career. In love, their self-assurance requires them to marry for position and security but will give all they have to give in love. Reserved artistic and good at business, the rabbit with their smooth negotiations will ensure any career they choose. Liking harmony, the rabbit does not understand why people are so nasty to each other. Although do not mistake this, the rabbit will get the contract signed, but by courtesy, consideration, and patience, you will not even be aware of it until you have signed on the dotted line. This does not mean that they are deceitful, but rather that they are clever.

•  Dragon Years of Birth: 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

The Fiery Dragon (2012) a very lucky sign and one in which many children are born, (including one of my daughters). Magical and imaginative the dragon is full of vitality and strength. They have very high ideals and command high standards from others as well as themselves. Do not challenge the dragon you will find them very opposing and do not hurt the ones they love or anger them or you will sorely regret it. On the other hand, they do not like defeat and can be a sore loser. If they like you, you will forever have a protector and a friend, and as a lover they take adulation for granted, knowing that they are well liked so therefore well loved. If they choose you for a mate, (and this sign is also quite happy to not to marry and just have good friends,) they will protect, lecture and support you forever. Dragons do not tolerate fools or deceitful people and their wrath can be very imposing. They are good with money, easy come easy go and prefer to live in a relaxed environment. Somewhat leaders by nature, they will only want the job if they are interested. Funny and liking a good time, a dragon is good at a party and is very adventuress.

• Snake Years of Birth: …1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025…

The forever-misunderstood Snake (2013) is a deep thinker, always looking for the meaning of life. Generally mystical with a lot of natural wisdom, the snake loves books, food, music and the fine things in life. Using their own judgment rather than others, they like their own advice. Superstitious and a little intense they like to settle scores. The snakes wish to control their own lives through power and authority. They can be victims of their past and have a hard time moving on with life. Elegant, in speech, dress, and manners, but suspicious in nature, the snake distrusts anyone who breaks a promise. In love, their mystique and cool ambivalence draws lovers to them with ease, and will only marry someone who shares their ambition. Striving for the top the snake can talk themselves out of things because they are inclined to think it over and over again. They love the detail and wish for things to be in order before moving on with it. Although looked upon with fear, the snake invulnerable and is only dangerous when it is fearful. Wishing to just be understood and respected the snake is harmless. Unless—-

• Horse Years of Birth: …1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026…

Enter the Horse (2014) the best year in my mind, as I am a horse myself. Cheerful, popular, quick-witted and earthy. The horse falls in and out of love easily. However, they are perceptive, talkative and have an ability to handle a difficult situation well and with authority. They are magnetic and commanding which can be presided as militant and aggressive at times although this is not so. Impetuous, energetic, and a flashy dresser. The horse although a non-conformist can be relied on to be accountable and honest. The horse will always be there for the underdog and has an ability to see both sides and council each of them well. Demanding a great deal from fellow workers they can and will just as eagerly work by your side as long as you know that they are the boss. Horses love freedom and pursue happiness at every corner. Being a person that feels their way around and who is constantly changing to the environment, they feel deeply and can be perceived as being moody, they are just adjustable people. They cannot keep regular hours and are best suited to flexible but demanding jobs, it is all or nothing. Very friendly and a true lover, do not let them down, they will forgive but never forget. They are protective of their loved ones and love with all their hearts, they like the home homey and love to run a little wild too. As friends, the horses will be by your side through anything, but if you betray them, you will be forgiven but forgotten too.

This is where the Goat comes in the sequence  

• Year of Birth: 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027

The graceful Sheep/ Goat (2015) who is righteous, sincere and a sucker for sad stories. They are fashionable, artistic and creative but can be depressed and withdrawn. They are homebodies, liking children and needing to be needed. Luck favours them and their peaceful nature draws people to them. Unfortunately, the sheep/goat instead of standing up for their rights is timid and is more inclined to sulk rather than demand. Straight to the point is not their way and they wish you to find out what is bothering them rather than they tell you. Martyrs and worriers they are pessimistic about life and are inclined to look to the worst rather than the best of things. Romantic by nature, they wished to be pursued and fought for, the sheep need to be in a respectful loving marriage to survive, secure in life love and mind. They have their favourites and if you’re not one of them do not take offence that is just the way it is. Neither forgiving nor forgetting is something they do easily, so don’t hurt them.

• Year of Birth of the Monkey :  1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028…

The mischievous Monkey (2016) is innovative, improviser, and a motivator. The monkey is most like man himself. Whatever they choose to do the monkey will succeed, no challenge is to great a chore, and they have the ability to use their intelligence when it is most needed. However, they do not respect others well as they have too much respect for themselves. Very competitive, confident and cocky the monkey has been known to use his cunning powers to get their way. They are very sociable and can hold positions of high power. Very self-absorbed the monkey is not a giver for giving sake, in love the monkey will be warm and spontaneous, but be prepared to work hard and always strive for better, love in its self is not enough, ambition is indeed the forever attraction. Whatever you do, never try to trick a monkey they will have the last word, and watch them carefully they are masters of trickery. Fun can be had with a monkey if you like a little mischief or mayhem.

Rooster 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, and 2029.

Wake up to the Rooster. (2017) Has self-assurance and is old-fashioned. They are generally very attractive people, who are acute neat organized decisive upright alert and direct. They can also be argumentative and a little cruel to others, they love to lord over other with their imposing knowledge. High perform ring roosters seek opportunities to excel at anything, and if you try to challenge their knowledge you are in for a long haul, roosters do their homework and know their stuff. Do not be around when a rooster is negative, they are egotistical opinioned and very abrasive, you will come out reeling from the experience. They are very good at handling money, accountants banking and finances. Roosters will follow orders to a T, and they are very good detailed people and, accountable with your interest at heart. All roosters are a perfectionist, with a sharp eye for details, but if they think that they are right about something, they may close their mind to any other input. They are excellent right-hand men but sway away from the front line, as they do not have the public personality or patience that is needed to be up front. Roosters love praise and are allergic to criticism; they make a good spouse and a good family person, just as long as they are the boss. For all that steadfastness, they are very vulnerable but will fight showing it.

• Years of the Dog: …1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030…

The likeable Dog (2018) (another of my children) is honest, intelligent and direct. They are the most loyal and trustworthy of creatures and have much passion for Just as and fair play. Dogs are friends to all people and are fair listeners meeting people halfway. Dogs will look out for everyone no matter what but is inclined to neglect their own self and leave themselves vulnerable. The dog has a great understanding of humans and instinctively knows the right from wrong, who to believe and who to be wary of. When a dog loves, it is with all its heart and loyalty, this is often taken advantage of and the dog often gets hurt. Forgiveness is strong and even if they move on they will remember the once loved one fondly. Do not push the dog into a corner, they will instinctively come out fighting in any which way. In love, the dog likes to get to know their suitor slowly as trust is an issue, but once trust is in place, they will encourage growth in their loved ones and equilibrium in their lives. As it is with children the dog will act like a playful puppy when young, and will take the time to learn the ways of the world, but what is nice is that they will never lose their playfulness. All in all a dog is a very good person to have in your life in any way.

• Years of the Pig: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031

The steadfast Pig (2019) is, of all the signs, one of honesty and of real genuine person. The pig is the ultimate diplomat, balancing both sides and keeping the peace. The pig is those people that make everything happen with ease so as you do not notice it even happening, but notice if they are not there. They socialize very well and like to be in the company of up and coming people, though they prefer to watch from a distance. Excellent in the line of fundraising and social work, the pig does not mind being truly committed to the cause. The pig is a little too trusting and allows themselves to be exploited by others without knowing it. In love, the pig is devoted and does everything for their loved ones except perhaps discipline them well, as they do not like confrontation. The pig is unselfish and caring and is very good to have as a friend if their motives are not interfering or judgmental.

Having had experiences with all of the signs, I have to say there is a lot in it. We take on the characters of the animals and unknowingly become them. I also believe that the “True Colours”, Zodiac and ‘numerology” plays a big part in it too. The Chinese take this all very seriously. This year, February 16TH is Chinese New Year’s Eve, and it is welcomed with feasting and socialization. There are parades, and the Dragons and the Lions performing for money, reflecting the old times when they used to give protection money to the gods for said protection. Not much has changed there, except that it is done far more aggressively now.