23rd Jan 2012 - 9th Feb 2013
Dragon
birth
years 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
In China the Dragon
symbolises power, strength and good luck. It is the only animal of
the Chinese zodiac year that is mythical.
The
Dragon is the fifth sign of the Chinese Zodiac which consists of 12
animals. One legend states that the Emperor of Heaven held a race.
The first 12 animals across the finish line were to have a year
in the Chinese calendar named after them.
The race
involved crossing a river. The Cat was afraid of the water and the Ox
was worried that he would not be able to cross because of his bad
eyesight. The Rat suggested that he and the Cat ride on the Ox’s
back and guide him across. Once in the river the Rat pushed the Cat
into the water. As the Ox reached the bank the Rat jumped from his
back and ran ahead winning the race. The Ox came second. The
poor Cat never got to finish the race. That is the reason for the
Cat's dislike of the Rat.
The
Tiger was pushed downstream by the heavy current but using his
strength and determination he was able to reach the shore in 3rd
place.
The Rabbit hopped across the river on stepping
stones but he lost his balance and had to grab onto a log which
washed him ashore, arriving in 4th place.
Next
came the Dragon. The Emperor was suprised that the Dragon had not
arrived earlier given his speed and ability to fly. The Dragon
explained that along the way he had stopped twice. His
first stop was to make much needed rain for the earth. Then he saw a
rabbit who had fallen into the river desperately clinging to a log.
So the Dragon had helped the rabbit wash ashore by giving him a
gentle puff of breath.
The Emperor was impressed with the Dragon's
good deeds and awarded him 5th place in the Zodiac.
The
Dragon is a lucky year.
Have
a great Dragon year!
