By ELLEN ENDO
Contributing Writer
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In many parts of Asia, young couples are hoping for little Dragons in 2012.
Babies born in the Year of the Dragon are often high-achievers and trailblazers, according to believers of astrology. Dragons have become CEOs of major corporations (Xerox, Coca-Cola, Walgreen’s), prime ministers (Vladimir Putin of Russia, Lee Hsien Long of Singapore), sports stars (Sadaharu Oh, Jimmy Connors), music icons (Count Basie, Placido Domingo, Bing Crosby, John Lennon and Ringo Starr), and historical figures (Joan of Arc, Florence Nightingale, Susan B. Anthony).
Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist, revolutionized advertising and was born a Dragon in 1952. That was the same year that Elizabeth II became Queen of England, a reign that continues today.
Academy Award-winning actors Al Pacino, Sandra Bullock, Michael Douglas, Russell Crowe, Julie Christie, Marisa Tomei, Olivia deHavilland, and Gregory Peck never appeared in a movie together, but they were all born in the Year of the Dragon.
When Dragon-year people do collaborate, the results seem to yield success. Bullock co-starred with Keanu Reeves, a fellow Dragon, in the action film “Speed,” which eventually grossed over $350 million worldwide. In another pairing of two famous Dragons, Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris appeared together in the aptly titled 1972 movie “Way of the Dragon.”
According to pundits, last year’s upheavals and disasters, such as Japan’s disastrous tsunami and earthquake, will give way to better times in the new year. 2012 welcomes the Water Dragon, they say, along with the Four Blessings of the East—wealth, virtue, harmony sand longevity.
The Dragon is associated with spring and new beginnings. Experts at www.proastro.com predict “remarkable events” during the first quarter of the Lunar New Year, which begins Jan. 25.
New love can blossom or an old one can reignite. Like flowing water, ideas and creativity emerge, setting the stage for a stronger economy. However, astrologers caution that the Dragon’s blessings may be temporary and are frequently accompanied both by dramatic change.
Astrologers at 2012freeastrology.com predict the following for the various animal signs in the coming year.
DRAGON (1928, 1940,1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000)
It should come as no surprise that 2012 is expected to be a good year for those born in Dragon years. Dragons are outspoken nonconformists, hot-headed, ambitious, and confident to the point of sometimes appearing conceited. They are also honest and straightforward. Dragons are loyal and, if married or in love, will enjoy satisfying relationships. There are likely to be advances in career, business, and finances this year. Dragons are advised to eat healthy food. The Dragon is compatible with the Rat, Snake, Rooster, Tiger and Monkey.
RAT (1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)
In 2012, Rat-born people are smart and charming and keep family and friends close. They will be more energetic in 2012. Luck will improve, particularly in love and careers. Those who have been single may finally settle down. Rats are cautioned, however, not to indulge in vices or listen to gossip.
OX (1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009)
Those born in the Year of the Ox often make plans carefully before taking action. They will need that patience in 2012 and prepare themselves mentally by focusing on positive thoughts, saving their money, and avoiding arguments at home and with colleagues at work. Luck will improve towards the middle of the year.
TIGER (1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010)
Tiger people are known to be brave and always ready for a challenge. They would be wise to take care of their health, get plenty of rest, and try not to become overworked.
Be careful when playing in pools and rivers. Although work and careers may seem to progress slowly, the outlook will brighten by the end of 2012. Tigers should also try to be more attentive to loved ones.
RABBIT (1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011)
Those born in the Year of the Rabbit are wise and insightful and make decisions cautiously. They also have the ability to understand others. The new year will present some obstacles along with occasional spikes of good luck. Rabbits should try to control their anger and be more considerate towards family members. 2012 will be a good year to make new friends.
SNAKE (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001)
Snakes possess profound wisdom, charm, elegance and style. There will be challenges at work, but these should be taken in stride. Meanwhile, do not bring home workplace issues. Balance finances and do not overeat. The Snake’s luck will peak during the last quarter of the year.
HORSE (1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2003)
Lucky stars are shining bright in 2012 for those born in the Year of the Horse. They are free-spirited and cherish their independence. Horses can also be very persuasive. Businessmen who are Horses should take good care of their subordinates. A proper diet is advised in order to cope with the hectic days ahead.
RAM (1919 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 2004)
Rams enjoy quality time with their families and appreciate a serene environment. They are sincere and kind-hearted and rarely question authority. 2012 will present great opportunities and luck as well as obstacles. There will be increased activity in business. Those who are single may find romance.
MONKEY (1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004)
Monkey people are clever and quick-witted and continually in search of new experiences. They are intelligent and can adapt to almost any situation. Those born on the Year of the Monkey are urged to live a healthy life as they may be affected by common illnesses like colds and the flu. Luck in the area of finances will be relatively stable in 2012.
ROOSTER (1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005)
Self-reliant and independent, Roosters exude confidence. They are also perfectionist but enjoy having people around. For Roosters, 2012 may resemble 2011. Health will generally be good as long as they get some exercise. Roosters should avoid scandals and gossip and strive for harmony with others, especially loved ones. Good fortune will begin to appear around the middle of the year.
DOG (1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2008)
Dogs are noble, tenacious, and loyal. They are genuine listeners and can be trusted with secrets. Luck will surround those born in the Year of the Dog. Students will do well in school, and business plans will go through smoothly. Health improves, and there will be harmony in family life. Avoid over-indulgence and take a vacation sometime during the year.
PIG (1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007)
People born in the Year of the Pig, or Boar, are kind and generous. They are trustworthy and driven by their passion for life. Pigs are cautioned to control their tempers and avoid direct confrontations. They are advised to laugh often and be more understanding in love. Things will definitely get better towards the end of the year.
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Regardless of one’s animal sign, the Year of the Dragon promises stimulating days to come. Water flows and nourishes the Dragon’s fixed element, wood, indicating that dreams can come true.
Of the 12 animal symbols representing the cycles in Asian astrology, the Dragon is the only one that is a mythical creature. He is also the only one that can fly. Get ready to fly with the Dragon.