WHEN the clock struck between the last minute of 2023 and the first minute of 2024, the kids and my Ibaloy Apos were flying Cabanatuan firecracker rockets over Mayta’s house at Cawat while I was thinking of my first opinion column this year.
In Bhutan, they believe that everyone’s birthday is on the first day of the year. That is why they celebrate birthdays all together, not individually. So that in that part of the world, the blessed ones are those born on the first day of January.
Lucky too because it is a double celebration in a day for them. They get to celebrate their special day in their country while everybody in Bhutan are reveling for themselves and on behalf of all January 1st birthday celebrants.
Years of the Dragon include 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, and 2024 which is a year of the Wood Dragon starting from February 10th, 2024 (Chinese New Year) and ending on January 28th, 2025 (Chinese New Year’s Eve).
The luckiest Chinese zodiac signs in 2024 are Monkey, Rooster and Pig. But the Chinese believe there are also zodiac signs that encounter tests during the Year of Dragon 2024, and there are causes for these challenges.
First, the Ox (1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021). Just like the animal, Ox people are hardworking and achieve impressive results. But in this year, the Dragon’s influence might bring unexpected changes, making it harder for them to keep moving forward.
As someone who values stability and tradition, the dynamic energy of the Dragon could challenge an Ox person, leading to changes in his or her career. The Feng Shui expert says, despite the disruptions, one must embrace flexibility.
Second, the Tiger (1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022). Tigers, known for their assertiveness, might face stronger competition in 2024. The Dragon’s influence could amplify their dynamic energy, making them more impatient and restless.
Thus, such a situation calls for an urgent need for quick results. To navigate successfully, the Tiger should be patient and plan carefully in order to avoid making hasty decisions that could cause unnecessary problems.
Third, the Sheep (1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015). Since a Sheep person is sensitive, the energy from the Dragon might feel a bit strong. One would experience ups and downs and internal conflicts through the year. It is therefore necessary for the Sheep person to concentrate on self-care and seek support to traverse personal growth.
The last but not the least is the Dog (1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018). One might find the Dragon’s carefree nature quite challenging, leading to overthinking and self-doubt. But despite the ability to enjoy life, Dogs could face financial challenges this year.
But while Dog persons are usually good at their jobs, finding well-paid or satisfying work might not be easy. So making decisions alone could result in unwise choices, resulting in financial losses or lost opportunities. Seek the help of a friend.
However, the Year of the Dragon may not be smooth all throughout as there are also flaws in many of its months. Those born in this year could possess the qualities of the dragon, including intelligence, pride, and ambition. But there are possibilities that these persons might carry flaws too, such as arrogance and overconfidence. Be careful.
Not all those born in the Year of the Dragon are lucky and strong. They too have weaknesses. The dragon is crazy, tactless, aggressive, judgmental, impractical, and are often unable to control their emotions.
The Feng Shui experts also say that Dragon persons may be unsure about the future. They also have plenty of romance in their lives, but they seldom offer true love. Enjoy the Chinese Lunar Year of 2024, but look out for an honest and sincere lover.