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Starweek Magazine

Year of the Horse

- JVM Francisco -
Unimpeded motion. Unshackled fluidity. The horse will stamp its inherent nature on all of us this year. The Year of the Horse, which will begin on February 12 and end on January 31, 2003, is the 4699th Chinese year. This will be an action-packed year, characterized by lively and highly spirited developments.

But before the Year of the Horse comes galloping in and sweeps us up in a whirlwind of events, let us look back and assess how we fared in the year just passed, the Year of the Snake. We predicted in last year’s horoscope that "the Year of the Snake is always unpredictable" and that "changes that will occur this year could be sudden and the results as devastating." The tragedy of September 11 was certainly unexpected and totally devastating, not only to the United States but to the whole world.

We also predicted that "2001 will be very active politically. Many major developments which had their beginnings in the Year of the Dragon will culminate in the Year of the Snake. These two signs are very closely related, with the Dragon year representing the strongest positive force and the Snake year representing the strongest negative one. As a result, the transition period covering the last quarter of one and the first quarter of the other tends to be turbulent. We will see many significant events taking place. There will be sweeping changes, with some governments and well-entrenched regimes falling through public pressure, the ballot or military intervention."

Clearly, what happened in our country where the impeachement trial of then President Joseph Estrada during the last quarter of the Year of the Dragon led to his overthrow through public pressure is a good example. The same is true for Argentina and Indonesia where public and political pressures brought in a series of presidential resignations. The prime example, of course, is the overthrow of the repressive Taliban regime in Afghanistan through the military intervention of the United States.

This writer also wrote that "While commerce and industry will be favorably aspected particularly during the second half of the year, investors will have to be careful with their dealings and should study all planned investments." The Philippine economy certainly took a beating and investments were down particularly in the first half of the Snake year. However, the second half proved to be more positive with GNP and GDP posting marked improvements, faring better than most Asian economies. The stock market also recorded a record six-month high during the last month of the Year of the Snake.

On the environment, we predicted that there would be some major environmental disasters and pollution calamities. Perhaps the clearest example would be the forest and bush fires that wreaked havoc in southern Australia late last year.

While some may be cynical about astrology and horoscopes, the Chinese have developed theirs based on the lunar calendar with logical references to cyclical and natural phenomena. The lunar calendar, the oldest chronological record in the world, can be traced back to 2637 BC when Emperor Huang Ti introduced its use during the 61st year of his reign. The moon was regarded by the ancient Chinese as having a profound influence on man. Being the closest heavenly body to the Earth, its gravitational pull causes the ebb and flow of tides. The Chinese believe that the four phases of the moon have their own functions and significance.

Under this lunar system, each month is composed of the four phases of the moon, beginning with the new moon. Twelve months comprise the lunar year, and twelve years make up one cycle.

The years in each cycle are named after 12 animals. Legend has it that before the Lord Buddha departed from the Earth, he summoned all the animals to come to him. Only 12 animals appeared before him to bid farewell. First to arrive was the Rat, then the Ox, the Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep (Goat), Monkey, Rooster, Dog and finally the Boar (Pig). In gratitude, he named a year after each of them beginning with the Rat. He also proclaimed that all those born during that year would inherit some of the characteristics of that animal.
The Five Elements
We often wonder though why invididuals born under a similar sign sometimes exhibit varying personality traits. Outside of the characteristics of the animal ruling the year of birth, there are five elements which exercise a profound influence on one’s life. These are the elements of Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth.

A person born in a year controlled by the Metal element is motivated by strong feelings and will pursue his objectives with intensity. He is success-oriented and is constantly guided by strong impulses which will be felt by those he comes in contact with. A person born under the Water element is basically ruled by sympathetic vibrations and is able to communicate feelings and ideas positively. Like his element, he is able to wear away the strongest rocks of opposition by his silent but constant efforts.

Persons born under the Wood element have high morals and a good deal of self-confidence. Their expansive and cooperative nature enables them to take on major roles and undertake large projects. A person born in a year controlled by the Fire element will most likely stand out in a crowd. He is ambitious, passionate and forceful. Although he is immensely loving and kind, he can be quick tempered and can flare up at the slightest provocation. People born under the Earth element are generally functional and practical. They make excellent managers and will run business efficiently. They are intelligent and display objectivity in supervising others.
General Prospects For The Year
The Year of the Water Horse will reflect the sense of energy, vitality and freedom of the horse. It will be a positive year where action, enterprise and achievement will be at the forefront.

Life will be hectic and people will generally find themselves reckless, romantic and carefree. It will be a period of adventures and for the enterprising ones, a time for advancement. For those who have been waiting to go into a new business or undertaking, this is an excellent time to strike out on your own.

The Philippine economy will improve although at a slow but steady pace. New trading agreements that will redound to the economy will be signed. In local business, we will see the upswing of some key industries. There will be marked improvement in the media, communications and entertainment industries. The stock market will continue to improve particularly during the first half of the year. Consumer spending will be boosted in the areas of home improvement, leisure and entertainment, sports, electronics and communications.

In medicine, a major breakthrough in the treatment of a previously incurable disease will bring hope to inflicted patients all over the world.

The political scene will be somewhat chaotic. Tempers will be a bit frayed and verbal assaults will characterize the already confusing state of local politics and lead to political realignments. On the international front, some politically unstable regions could become major conflict areas. An incursion by one country into another will lead to a full-scale war but his will be short-lived.

On the whole, the Year of the Horse will be a positive one–exhausting but definitely rewarding.
Individual Prospects For The Year
Let us now take a look at how we will fare individually in this Year of the Horse.
Rat
18 February 1912 to 05 February 1913 –Water Rat
05 February 1924 to 24 February 1925–Wood Rat
24 January 1936 to 10 February 1937–Fire Rat
10 February1948 to 28 January 1949–Earth Rat
28 January 1960 to 14 February 1961–Metal Rat
15 February 1972 to 02 February 1972–Water Rat


A person born in the year of the Rat is hardworking and thrifty. He rarely lets an opportunity pass and is constantly involved in many plans and schemes. Charming, intelligent and sociable, he is easy to get along with and enjoys parties and social gatherings. He cherishes friends, associates and family relations and often gets enmeshed in people’s lives and affairs.The Year of the Horse will be a variable year for the Rat person.
You will need to exercise caution in most of your activities. In fact it may be better to keep a low profile and maintain things as they are. You also need to take care of your health and personal belongings.

At work, this is going to be an unpredictable year with some obstacles. You will achieve only modest progress. It will be wise to think before you speak as impulsive words could prove disastrous. On financial matters, you must avoid taking risks and overspending. It would be best to hold on to your money and for those in the stock market business, you need to invest wisely and cautiously. What might look to be a great investment opportunity could turn out to be a deep money pit. However, March and December will be lucky months for romance and partnership.
Ox
06 February 1913 to 25 January 1914 –Water Ox
24 January 1925 to 12 February 1926–Wood Ox
11 February 1937 to 30 January 1938–Fire Ox
29 January 1949 to 16 February 1950–Earth Ox
03 February 1961 to 04 February 1962–Metal Ox
03 February 1973 to 22 January 1974–Water Ox
20 February 1985 to 08 February 1986–Wood Ox
07 February 1997 to 27 January 1998–Fire Ox


The Ox is an animal that symbolizes prosperity through determination and hard work. A person born under the Ox sign therefore is dependable, calm and methodical. He is a tireless worker and can be entrusted with positions of authority and responsibility.

This will be a good year for you Ox persons. Opportunities will present themselves and you better make sure to grab them. Careerwise, you will enjoy steady progress. Those involved in business should expect improvement. Some periods of the year will be frustrating but do not be impatient and inflexible. You shall overcome. For those seeking work, this will be the year to establish your own business or pursue the career you’ve been dreaming of.

On financial matters, you will have some unexpected gains. But money will be easy come, easy go this year, so exercise temperance in spending. Those planning to invest, avoid so-called "inside tips" from friends and colleagues and instead trust your instincts and careful judgment. Oxen will be attractive to the opposite sex this year. If you’re single, go to parties and socials in July and keep your eyes wide open for your destiny. For those attached, do not stray as the consequences will be devastating.
Tiger
26 January 1914 to 13 February 1915 –Wood Tiger
13 February 1926 to 01 February 1927–Fire Tiger
31 January 1938 to 18 February 1939–Earth Tiger
17 February 1950 to 05 February 1951–Metal Tiger
05 February 1962 to 24 January 1963–Water Tiger
23 January 1974 to 10 February 1975–Wood Tiger
09 February 1986 to 28 January 1987–Fire Tiger
28 January 1998 to 15 February 1999–Earth Tiger


The Tiger symbolizes power, passion and daring. A Tiger person therefore usually displays a rebellious, colorful and unpredictable character. He is a fearless and fiery fighter but on the other hand has a humanitarian and romantic streak in him. At his best, he is warm, sensitive and sympathetic; at his worst, he is obstinate, unreasonable and selfish.

This is a year that Tigers will enjoy and remember. Luck is on your side. Some of you might even buy that winning lottery ticket. Your social status and reputation will also be on the rise and ambitious Tigers might get the opportunity to rise to the power circle. At work, promotions are favorably aspected form mid-February to April and from October to December. However, you must watch out for treachery from some friends or colleagues which might result in a lawsuit.

The year of the Horse will also see improved finances but avoid overspending and impulsive purchases. Travel is favored this year and will bring you much enjoyment. You will receive some much needed help from the mother’s side of your family in June. For the single Tiger, this will be an exciting and romantic year. Romance is in the air in February. An existing friendship or acquaintance would transform into a meaningful relationship. Your best months are February, July, September and December.
Rabbit
14 February 1915 to 02 February 1916 –Wood Rabbit
02 February 1927 to 22 January 1928–Fire Rabbit
19 February 1939 to 07 February 1940–Earth Rabbit
06 February 1951 to 26 February 1952–Metal Rabbit
25 January 1963 to 12 February 1964–Water Rabbit
11 February 1975 to 30 January 1976–Wood Rabbit
29 January 1987 to 16 February 1988–Fire Rabbit


To the Chinese, the Rabbit symbolizes graciousness, good manners, sound counsel, kindness and sensitivity to beauty. The Rabbit person is a witty and intelligent speaker and loves being involved in a good discussion. He is an efficient worker and has an extremely good memory.

This will be an active year for the Rabbits. Female rabbits will enjoy a great year but unfortunately this will be an average year for you male rabbits. Your perseverance and consistency will be tested by various obstacles that will come your way. However, you should look at these as challenges and be assured that help from persons close to you will always provide relief.

At work, avoid taking too much risk. By doing so, your progress will be steady but sure and chances are you will assume a greater role or get a promotion. Water rabbits will be extra lucky this year and this will be a good period for business and investment. Your personal life will be in great form this year. You will enjoy an active social life. There will be something to celebrate in the family, either a wedding or a victory. For the unattached, affairs of the heart are well aspected. Lucky months are June, September and November.
Dragon
03 February 1916 to 22 January 1917 –Fire Dragon
23 January 1928 to 09 February 1929–Earth Dragon
08 February 1940 to 26 January 1941–Metal Dragon
27 January 1952 to 13 February 1953–Water Dragon
13 February 1964 to 01 February 1965–Wood Dragon
31 January 1976 to 17 February 1977–Fire Dragon
17 February 1988 to 05 February 1989–Earth Dragon


The Dragon person is born under the sign of luck and will do well in practically anything he attempts. He is magnanimous, full of vitality and is constantly on the go. Proud and aristocratic, the Dragon posesses an assertive personality. He could be egotistical, eccentric, dogmatic, whimsical, terribly demanding or unreasonable, but he is never without a band of admirers.

Dragons should keep a low profile this year. Things will tend to be busier and more chaotic around you but it will be best to stay calm and composed. Perseverance and hard work will in the end redound to prosperity. In general, avoid attending funerals or visiting the sick and instead try to surround yourself with better vibes such as weddings and baptisms which could bring you good luck.

Your finances will fluctuate throughout the year so avoid profligate spending. At work, there will be tremendous pressure on your shoulders. You will need to strive harder this year to reach your goals. Be careful with every step you take. However, you will get the much-needed support from colleagues and friends. Although August will be a good month for romance, do not be too eager. Just let things be and love will do the rest. Your lucky months are August, October, November and January.
Snake
23 January 1917 to 10 February 1918–Fire Snake
10 February1929 to 29 January 1930–Earth Snake
27 January 1941 to 14 Februay 1942–Metal Snake
14 February 1953 to 02 February 1954–Water Snake
02 February 1965 to 20 January 1966–Wood Snake
February 1977 to 06 February 1978–Fire Snake
06 February 1989 to 26 January 1990–Earth Snake


The Snake is the deepest thinker and the enigma of Chinese astrology. He is endowed with an inborn wisdom and intelligence. He treasures his privacy and possesses a calm and placid nature. Graceful, soft-spoken but with a good sense of humor, he loves good books, food, music and theater.

2002 will be a more year for you compared to last year. You will generally feel better about yourself and be more energetic. The Year of the Horse will present great opportunities to you so be on the alert and grab them when you can. This is the time too to set new plans and goals. Finance, romance and career are looking good for you.

In personal finances, there will be a steady increase in your income. However, you have to be careful of any investment and avoid making new loans. August is a good time to expand your business or start a partnership. Your social life will be on the upswing particularly from May to August. If you are already in a relationship, we could see wedding bells this year. For the single Snakes, be sure to look your best all the time and go to parties and other social events. Your domestic life will also be quite happy. Younger and more senior relations will appreciate the support you will provide.
Horse
11 February 1918 to 31 January 1919 –Earth Horse
30 January 1930 to 16 February 1931–Metal Horse
15 February 1942 to 04 February 1943–Water Horse
03 February 1954 to 23 January 1955–Wood Horse
21 January 1966 to 08 February 1967–Fore Horse
07 February 1978 to 27 January 1979–Earth Horse
27 January 1990 to 14 February 1991–Metal Horse


The Horse person is cheerful, popular and quick-witted. He is very perceptive and loves to talk. He is quite physical and exudes raw sex appeal–the type who will fall in love easily and fall out of love just as easily. Impulsive and stubborn, he will want things done his way.

This is the year with considerable potential for the Horse person. You will enjoy notable successes on things that you have worked on for some time. But although this is your year, it would be best to avoid being too excitable. It is best to play everything moderately.

This year, you must try to eat healthy and exercise regularly. It is a time to pay more attention to your body and you should watch out for contagious diseases. Finance will be moderate this year. Your income will increase over the year but it is best to put these into savings. In business, it would be wise to do some research before any investment is made. Keep plans in confidence as these might be jeopardized. Be mindful of gossip and avoid hurting the feelings of friends and loved ones. July is a good month for changes in lifestyle or travel.
Sheep
13 February 1907 to 01 February 1908 –Fire Sheep
01 February 1919 to 19 February 1920–Earth Sheep
17 February 1931 to 05 February 1932–Metal Sheep
05 February 1943 to 24 January 1944–Water Sheep
24 January 1955 to 11 February 1956–Wood Sheep
09 February 1967 to 29 January 1968–Fire Sheep
28 January 1979 to 15 February 1980–Earth Sheep
15 February 1991 to 03 February 1992–Metal Sheep


The Sheep is the most feminine sign in the Chinese zodiac. Known for his gentle and compassionate ways, he is considered the good Samaritan of the cycle. He is righteous, sincere and is easily affected by sob stories. Although he enjoys being with nature, the Sheep is usually a homebody.

The Year of the Horse will be smooth and tranquil for the Sheep. It will be a good year marked by considerable success and achievement. At work, this will be the time to expand your business or forge new partnerships or alliances. Wood sheep are particularly lucky and you might be smiling your way to the bank!

Careerwise, you will find some good opportunities for develoment and promotion. You must, however, maintain good working relationships with your colleagues and subordinates and the path to success will be clear. You will earn good money from work and it would be good to invest this. This is not the time for gambling. There will be some opportunities for romance in July. A problem that has been nagging you will finally get resolved. Your lucky months are March, May, July and January.
Monkey
02 February 1908 to 21 January 1909 –Earth Monkey
20 February 1920 to 07 February 1921–Metal Monkey
06 February 1932 to 25 January 1933–Water Monkey
25 January 1944 to 12 February 1945–Wood Monkey
12 February 1956 to 30 January 1957–Fire Monkey
30 January 1968 to 16 February 1969–Earth Monkey
16 February 1980 to 04 February 1981–Metal Monkey
04 February 1992 to 22 January 1993–Water Monkey


The Monkey has the closest affinity to man and therefore inherits most of his intelligence. He is quick-witted, clever and innovative, and can solve intricate problems with ease. The Monkey is innately a warm, natural and spontaneous person. He exudes self-confidence and has an enviable joie de vivre.

2002 will be a fair year for the Monkey person. It may not be too exciting but it will be safer to keep things the way they are. Competition will characterize most aspects of your work. Accept it as a way of life this year. With perseverance and armed with years of training and experience, you will triumph.

In personal finance, several strokes of luck will bring some good fortune. Keep the luck by balancing your budget. Avoid unnecessary expenditures. Water Monkeys will see a considerable increase in income and your investments will prove to be rewarding. This is also the period to do volunteer or charity work as this will bring good luck. For those seeking work or planning a career change, 2002 will present good opportunities particularly in March, July, October and November. Romance is favorably aspected in August.
Rooster
02 January 1909 to 09 February 1910 –Earth Rooster
08 February 1921 to 27 January 1922–Metal Rooster
26 January 1933 to 13 February 1934–Water Rooster
13 February 1945 to 01 February 1946–Wood Rooster
31 January 1957 to 17 February 1958–Fire Rooster
17 February 1969 to 05 February 1970–Earth Rooster
05 February 1981 to 24 January 1982–Metal Rooster
23 January 1993 to 09 February 1994–Water Rooster


The Rooster is the most misunderstood of all the signs. Outwardly, he exhibits self-assurance and aggression; but at heart he could be conservative and old-fashioned. Rooster men are usually attractive, even dashingly handsome. On the whole the Rooster person is sharp, neat, precise, organized, decisive, direct and is good at handling money. He loves to budget everything he can lay his hands on.

The Rooster can now heave a sigh of relief for 2002 will be a great year for you! Joyful things are coming your way–exactly as you dreamed them to be. The most favorable aspect will be your career which is expected to take off. A promotion or raise is waiting for you. For those who are planning career moves, this will be the perfect time to do it.

In business, this will be the right period for expansion. Unexpected bounty will make it a profitable year. However, you must watch out for some obstacles and it will be best to hurdle them with diplomacy. As for romance, this could be the year you’ve been waiting for. Either a new love is forthcoming or an old flame will be rekindled, more passionately this time. October will be a good month for travel and your lucky months are March, May, June and December.
Dog
10 February 1910 to 29 January 1911–Metal Dog
28 January 1922 to 15 February 1923–Water Dog
04 February 1934 to 03 February 1935–Wood Dog
02 February 1946 to 21 January 1947–Fire Dog
18 February 1958 to 07 February 1959–Earth Dog
06 February 1970 to 26 January 1971–Metal Dog
25 January 1982 to 12 February 1983–Water Dog


The Dog is honest, genuine, loyal, sincere and respects law and order–qualities of an ideal citizen of the country! He is not materialistic and possesses humanitarian instincts. He is the type who would lay down his life for a friend or relative. However, he can suffer bouts of melancholy or when the situation calls for it, show flashes of temper.

The Year of the Horse could be the year you’ve been waiting for. All the stars are on your side and it will prove to be a prosperous and rewarding year. You should make the most of the opportunities to achieve your goals in life. This is the time to feel more confident, be bolder and more adventurous.

Your personal finances will be on the rise. An unexpected gift or bonus will come your way. A word of caution though–do not invest speculatively. If you are a top executive, this year will see your peak in power and influence. Your business will have real financial gains.Your domestic life will be a whirl of activity and you will play a central and important role. However, some unhappy news at home could be forthcoming. Do not despair, time heals all wounds. Beware of theft and watch your health. April will be most happy and there will be something good to celebrate.
Boar
30 January 1911 to 17 February 1912–Metal Boar
16 February 1923 to 04 February 1924–Water Boar
04 February 1935 to 23 January 1936–Wood Boar
22 January 1947 to 09 February 1948–Fire Boar
08 February 1959 to 27 January 1960–Earth Boar
27 January 1971 to 14 February 1972–Metal Boar
13 February 1983 to 01 February 1984–Water Boar


The Boar (Pig) is the most easy-going and laid-back of all the signs. Cheerful, friendly and overflowing with good intentions, he does not bear grudges. He is the connoisseur/gourmet of the Chinese zodiac and thus enjoys good food and has a healthy appetite. Despite lacking strong ambitions, he is hardworking and generally successful.

This is going to be a pleasing year for you. Your personal life will be more settled after a trying Year of the Snake. Your financial and romantic life are particularly well aspected this year. Opportunities will be coming from all directions but these must be handled well as they can bring you either great success or devastating failures.

February is a good month for personal finance. Those in business will experience some bounty during the first quarter of the year. For you unattached Pigs, love will be knocking at your door in March. Do not ignore a friend who wants to play cupid. If you already have a partner, it will be a wonderful time to get together and be closer to each other. Be loyal to your love interest. Watch out for any accidents or injury in October. Your lucky months are February, May, July, September and January.

CENTER

EARTH

EARTH HORSE

EARTH MONKEY

GOOD

HORSE

YEAR

YEAR OF THE HORSE

YEAR OF THE SNAKE

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