Horse

24 January 2002 to 11 February 2003

    The Chinese lunar calendar dates from 2637 BC. It was introduced by the Emperor Huang Ti during the 61st year of his reign.

    One complete cycle of the calendar takes 60 years to complete. Each cycle is made up of five simple cycles of 12 years, each of which are named for an animal in the Chinese zodiac: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Boar.

    Legend says that the Lord Buddha called all the animals to come to him before he left from Earth. Only these twelve came. As a reward he named the years for them.

We are in the 78th cycle of the Chinese lunar calendar. This cycle began on February 2, 1984.

The Year of the HORSE

The dynamic Horse is a symbol for perception, and speed and objectifies
independence and love for adventure. Considered the most yang and
masculine of all of the signs, he is a symbol of all happiness in China
and represents desires and wishes and the willpower to manifest these dreams.

Powerful Horse has magical qualities, including the ability to fly. A
white celestial cloud horse was a sacred companion to the compassionate
Goddess Kwan Yin. The Goddess’ white Horse flies through the heavens,
bringing blessings and joy.

The Year of the Horse is a fast-paced time that can be full of victory,
adventure, excitement, surprises and fun. Decisive action and
productivity will be rewarded and there will be a marked increase in
business and commercial activities. Challenge and competition will be
hallmarks of the year. Travel and movement are highlighted as well.

Be aware, however, that the Horse is changeable as the wind --
capricious, unpredictable and volatile. Like a high-spirited wild
stallion, the only rider he will allow on his back is one who earns his
respect. Optimism rides high and is likely to be rewarded, but one must
be careful not to become overextended or stressed-out..

Don’t over-commit yourself or push yourself too hard. It is too easy to
become caught up in the whirl of flying opportunities and the quest for
greener pastures. It is very easy to exhaust yourself and your
resources. One who wants to ride the Horse must be able to control
himself most of all. Self-discipline will be required, for above
everything else the Horse is pragmatic and practical. He knows where
his next meal is going to come from..

Procrastination and pessimism and rigidity and the inability to adapt to
quickly changing circumstances is likely to cause you to fall off this
Horse. You will need to be fast on your feet because the Horse changes
course without much notice. Pay attention to your hunches and your
intuitions. You’re going to need them.

There will be freedom of movement this year.
Be brave, be bold, be shocking.

Most of all, have fun!