The Year of the Rat


The Chinese astrological cycle begins with the year of the Rat; consequently those born within this category like to be first, pioneers, at the forefront of the action. Because of this, they tend to see themselves as a cut above the others. Restless and inquisitive, those born under the influence of the Rat are active, both physically and mentally, and tend to lead busy lives. Challenge is essential to them for they love the thrill of living dangerously, adapting easily to different environments and surviving against all odds. With clairvoyance, intuition, perspicacity and an eye for detail, Rats are formidable problem solvers, finding workable solutions to the knottiest problems.

In observance of the Chinese calendar, 2008 is also the Year of the Rat (ιΌ ). The Chinese Year of the Earth Rat will start from February 7, 2008 to January 25, 2009. I have made a little research on the 2008 forecast for the year of the rat and since I am not an expert on this matter, I would like to disclaim all warranties and liabilities made by this prediction. You may want to seek professional premium services or whatever that suits your preference. It is generally characterized as a period of change, one that will bring lots of opportunities and good prospects to many people.

So what’s in store for this supposedly auspicious year? Beijing is definitely looking positive, even kicking off the Olympics on 8 August 2008 (the 8th day of the 8th Month of the year 2008). Apparently, for those who believe in the chinese zodiac cycle, this is a good year to begin a new job, get married, launch a product or make a fresh start. Why is the rat year so? Mainly because the rat is the first animal of the 12 that went to see the Emperor. So it’s really coming full circle and starting again.


There is a word of caution though although it is a time of fresh beginnings, ventures begun now may not yield fast returns, but opportunities will come for people who are well prepared and resourceful. The best way for you to succeed is to be patient, let things develop slowly, and make the most of every opening you can find. Sounds much like what a rat would do?


For the Chinese, rats are not the vile creatures the West often portrays them to be (save for Mickey Mouse and the more recent Little Chef in Ratatouille). Regardless of either perception, it cannot be denied that rats are clever and bright (watch them dart), sociable (they like to move in packs) and family-minded (always bring back stuff for the brood). They also have broad interests (check out all the places you can find them in) and have an incredible ability to adapt to the environment and swiftly react to changes. (Have you ever tried to catch a rat? They defend, attack, run around in circles… cunning little creatures.)


PREDICTIONS

Technology – 2008 will be marked by technological innovation all over the world. Historically, the year of the rat witnessed the introduction of breakthrough technology – Apple Macintosh, the CD ROM, Genetic engineering, Web TV in 96 and the 1st world TV Service through the BBC in 1948.

Health – More attention will be given to the pursuit of healthier lifestyles. As a consequence, business involved in health care such as spas, health clubs, organic food, medicine and the like related companies will experience a boom. There will also be breakthroughs in the treatment of certain diseases.

Political Change and renewal will be seen in many places (Evidence: many major elections happening between 2007 and 2008 with change of leadership in many countries including the USA, UK, Russia, France, Taiwan, Pakistan, etc.) the new leaders will make an impact to international matters whether directly or indirectly.

Environment – will still continue to hug the limelight this year. Civil Society will become more conscious and vocal about environmental concerns. As a result, more concrete measures will be taken by governments all over the world and major international agreements to stop Global Warming will be adapted.


快乐新年,快乐中国新年!ιΌ εΉ΄ηš„δΊ”ζœˆεΈ¦η»™δ½ θ΄’ε―Œε’Œε₯εΊ·! (Happy Chinese New Year! May the year of the rat bring you wealth and good health!)


The Year of the Rat The Year of the Rat Reviewed by Vernon Joseph Go on Friday, February 08, 2008 Rating: 5

5 comments

  1. just wanna add about the Internet prediction: "many people will be on blogging for money; it would be a trend in 2008" :D

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  2. kung hei fat choi!

    swerte ao ngaun! ox hurrah!

    linked you up as well.

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  3. wahhh ratatouille! Hindi ko pa siya napapanood. :(

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  4. If a resident calls Waveney about a rat or insect infestation, the policy is to direct them straight to Command Pest Control. There is a subsidy available to residents who meet certain critera, such as receiving benefits. In the past year, ...

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  5. There's something a bit gamer-perfect about Ava Lee, the shiny new Chinese-Canadian globetrotting martial-arting lesbian-but-gorgeous forensic accountant (with "large breasts for a Chinese woman") who animates Ian Hamilton's debut, The Water Rat of ...

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