After two, Fire years life may seem calmer during this Earth year. That could be
deceptive, however, as the Rat never stops moving, especially when it comes to mental
activity.
Unfortunately Earth has a destructive relationship with the Rat's fixed element,
Water. This is not disastrous, but it does mean people should not rely too much
on luck this year.
On the other hand the combination of Earth and Rat is extremely positive when it
comes to achieving results. The Rat tends to take a lot of risks, while Earth is
associated with practicality and stability. This creates balance and can lead to
good profits, increased productivity and all sorts of accomplishments. And, under
Earth's influence there could be fewer scandals than in other, Rat years.
The Rat is the first sign of the Chinese zodiac and signifies new beginnings. This
year is thus an appropriate time to start new ventures, especially groundbreakings.
This includes new ideas, directions, and ways of doing things. It is a time to experiment
and put plans into action, as there will be plenty of opportunities to achieve success.
Something to consider is that which is begun now is likely to have long term consequences,
so choose wisely to enrich your life.
Interestingly this is an equally good time for thinking and all kinds of intellectual
endeavors. Planning, scholarship and research, for example, are favorable activities.
It is also an auspicious time for the arts; although, under Earth's influence, applied
arts such as design and graphics may do best.
Earth favors those who are tied to the land, do a lot of routine work, deal with
practical matters, or perform work of a spiritual nature. Looking at the characteristics
of both Earth and Rat it could be a very good year for those with careers in business,
construction, engineering, academia, planning and the clergy.
There is likely to be a focus on career and self improvement this year to the detriment
of family. People thus need to be attentive and creative so that this area does
not suffer. It is, however, a relatively good time to begin a new romance. Those
in a relationship may want to consider raising it to the next level, to include
marriage.
Since this is an Earth year those people born in a Metal year will generally fare
better than others of their animal sign, while those born in a Water year are likely
to do worse than those born in Wood, Fire, and Earth years.
Health issues vary not only by sign but by each individual. Your best bet is to
visit a Chinese doctor to have your balances checked and get some advice for the
coming year. It is an Earth year, so one thing we can say in general is to get enough
exercise and be on the alert for unwanted weight gains. Inactivity could lead to
problems.
The year 2008 will be a year of possibilities, a time of progress; although, it
may not generally be spectacular. Those who take the biggest risks could be disappointed.
Everyone should, nevertheless, add something new to their life.