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Fate, Destiny & You offers a comprehensive guide to the ancient wisdom's of the East, and How "the animal which hides within your heart" sways your destiny. All Twelve animal signs of the Chinese zodiac, what your birth Element has to add, love signs, best careers and more are included. Click here!

February 1, 2003 heralds in the Year of the Water/Black Goat "Gui Wei" Most signs go into a state of "relapse," taking inventory and even doing some "damage control."

Relief is in sight during 2003, as the Goat/Ram who's essence is "propriety" brings a more relaxed and yielding year. Goat years are more "delicate," artistic, capricious, and full of "whimsy". Inspired by harmony, and feminine -Yin (balancing out the male +Yang of the previous Horse year), Goat years are creative, imaginative and ingenious!

Art galleries, forms and colors, and extravagant spending prevails. Rather indifferent to the rules of society, the Goat is the most inconstant of the zodiac years. Irresponsible? Undisciplined? Eccentric? Absolutely! But also more peaceful, creative and adaptable. Goat years leap from one imaginary cloud to the next, seeking novelty, beauty, and the path of least resistance.

A feminine -Yin year of intuition, finesse, and good taste. As the hot-headed Horse year releases it's hold, the tranquillity-loving Goat offers elegance, delicacy, and the more aesthetic things in life. The down-side is a risk of becoming lost in fantasy, brooding and lack of responsibility. Bills go unpaid, mundane work is detestable, and dependency on wealth and comforts abound. A lack of organization and resisting routine in all it's forms, also constitutes un-punctual Goat years.

The good-news is that the Goat's "live and let live" attitude will be helpful in resolving conflicts brewed up in the previous Snake and Horse years. The Water element, which is with us again this year, has no form of it's own, and is forced to conform and take on the shape of what contains it. A lazier year, more dependent and changeable -- where outward appearances can be deceiving. All must avoid the sleeping, muddy waters of delays and inactivity.

While continuing to move closer to the ideals of spiritual oneness, we must continue to contend with our share of intolerant, provincially minded dictators. Similar to the barbarians of the past (Hitler, Stalin, Tse-tung, Napoleon, Idi Amin, Po poi, and Genghis Khan) our generation must contend with the likes of un-evolved extremists such as Bin Laden, Sadam Hussein, and the brutality of the North Korean government... Like all narcissistic conquerors who assume they are entitled to rule and to intimidate by some divine right, these dictators must be harshly dealt with like the petulant tyrants they are. We continue through the painful stages of a woman in labor, to be free from the stranglehold of despotism and tyranny.

Uneven distribution of rainfall, and some areas may suffer from flood (lower areas) or drought (higher elevations.) No food shortages, but the cost of living could increase drastically. Capricious Goat years also tend to bring rather dramatic shifts in government, politics and distribution of wealth. Expect the unexpected this year, and know that not all things are as they seem on the surface. Just as disaster seems eminent, deliverance and rescue arrives at the 11th hour. Best results are attained by remaining flexible. These changeable astral aspects stabilize after Fall/Autumn of 2003.

The Frugal Rat - The “Concealed Charmer”
Personal wealth, smoother family relations and prosperous career are in your favor this year. However, be cautious during the months of June and July, as there are some who may attempt to take advantage of you financially. Take precautions to avoid confrontations with others as strife could result in a loss of resources. Ignore feelings of dissatisfaction or a tendency toward pessimism, as your overall luck improves after August 8th. Romantically, faithfulness leads to happiness, while dalliances lead to family strife - one mistake could take much effort to correct. Your endless energy is the source of sustained success this year.. Best luck of the year between February 4 - March 6th, April 5th - May 6th, and August 8th - September 8th, 2003.

The Durable Ox - The “Head Honcho”
Due to the clash (opposition) between the dependable Ox and the capricious Goat, many Oxen may find themselves working twice as hard to achieve results. Remain conservative when making decisions or executing changes this year. Take inventory of your life goals and hatch new projects. Have confidence in your abilities, taking any problems by the horns. Avoid complacence or a fatalistic approach. Established couples enjoy a memorable year in love matters. Strengthen ties and continue to build a solid base. Single oxen may be swept-away by passion and marriage could be on the horizon. Oxen involved in the creative arts reap excellent success and fame could result in May or September. Best luck of the year between May 6th - June 5, September 8th - October 9th, and December 7th - January 6th, 2004.

The Noble Tiger - The “Go-Getter”
A particularly promising year when money is abundant. Pounce on possibilities, as hesitation could result in missed opportunities. Attached Tigers are less restless and couples savor heightened erotic desire for each other. However, if your marriage is ailing, these passionate influences may spur temptations or love-affairs. The need for independence is strong. Single Tigers should keep their eyes open as the astral ambiance is ripe for some heart-pounding passion. Generous Tigers delight in showering their loved one’s with sumptuous gifts. A year of gratifying conquests and dramatic actions. Best luck of the year between June 5th and July 7th, and October 9th through December 7th.

The Detached Rabbit - The “Artful Dodger”
Rabbits thrive during “Artsy” Goat years. Good opportunities for recognition, wealth and popularity, however some tense moments may occur during April, June or September regarding legal matters. Your mental serenity is of supreme importance to you and can be achieved by adopting a balanced lifestyle of moderation. Love relations are marked by passion but many Rabbits could experience an “approach-avoidance” syndrome during this fickle year. Charismatic and charming, Rabbit natives have no shortage of suitors. Good physical resistance as any chronic health concerns tend towards remission. Your tact and refinement serve you well. Best luck of the year between July 7th and August 8th, and November 8th through December 7, 2003.

The Unpredictable Dragon - The “Theatrical Visionary”
Zealous Dragons could exhaust their resources during this eccentric and expensive year. Extra caution is in order regarding business transactions. Keep your mind focused on your work and family and don’t allow others to pull you into unmanageable situations. Assert your wonderful originality, particularly in your vocation, where this strength will be acknowledged. Adopt a more moderate approach and beware of taking any radical stances. A year of peaceful love relationships, however be mindful of the urge for scandalous love affairs during September and October. A year to plan creative and vast projects which will culminate in the next Monkey year of 2004. Best luck of the year during August and December 2003.

The Intuitive Snake - The “Learned One”
Calm Snakes tend to keep their fears and concerns to themselves. This is a year where best results are achieved by sharing your burdens with trusted others. Spiritual practices are most helpful for emotional balance and addressing stress. Your personal and spiritual evolution are highlighted this year and your rich interior life grows by leaps and bounds. New interests and life-paths call to you now and your creativity is unsurpassed. Avoid physical inertia with moderate exercise and enjoy the sentimental mood of this gracious year. Best luck of the year between September 8th and October 9th 2003, and January 6th, 2004 through February 4th, 2004.

The Decisive Horse - The “Happy Hedonist”
The best year social Horses have had in a long time! Your love-life flourishes, your professional horizons demand effort but are well protected. Goat years are stamped with surprises for the Horse. While the unforeseen may be nerve-wracking, know that changes are auspicious for you now, jump right in as you are well up to the challenge! This Goat year may also entice you towards speculation and taking some bold risks. Your life-palace of “Unions” comes to the forefront this year, but be cautious not to let matters of the heart influence business decisions. Benefactors abound, joint ventures are favored, and good deeds pay off handsomely. Best luck of the year between February 4 and March 6th, and July 7th through August 8th.

The Creative Goat - The “Good Samaritan”
A very busy and eventful year is ahead for colorful Goats. Now is the time to complete your education or achieve advanced degrees. A wonderful year to attend social events such as parties, lively social events and weddings (perhaps, even your own!) A year when problems and difficulties are behind you. Enjoy a year full of good surprises, especially if romantically beside a talkative Horse, a sensual Pig or a charming Rabbit. Goat natives will conquer some hearts this year, and a romantic encounter which results in a marriage proposal is a distinct possibility. Remember to practice a balanced lifestyle healthwise, avoiding excesses in food or drink, and promptly attend to any symptoms of illness. Best luck of the year between March 6th and April 25th, June 5th through July 7th, and November 8th through December 7th, 2003.

The Entertaining Monkey - The “Merry Mercurial”
Career promotions and expanded financial territories characterize this year for multi-tasking Monkeys. Your health may continue to be a concern, but awareness of the situation lessens any consequences. Take full advantage of this years high profits for you, and consider making a donation to your favorite charitable organization. Many changes are in store for you this year, face the auspicious ones with confidence, and face the difficult ones (especially in February & July) without panic. Know that upheavals produce progress and your resourcefulness puts you on a wide and smooth path. Your irrepressible soul springs back like the Phoenix and your enthusiasm launches large-scale projects. Best luck of the year between April 5th and May 6th, and December 7th through January 6th, 2004.

The Perfectionist Rooster - The “I can do better” inspirer.
Make the most of this years influences by showing exceptional concern for those in your intimate circle. Don't make any decision without foreseeing the consequences for those around you. Be mindful of accidents while driving and traveling, especially between March 6th and April 5th, and September 8th to November 8th. Despite some anxiety and bumps in the road, Roosters find very pleasant surprises in their love-lives. The auspicious influence of T’ai Yin (the Moon) brings harmony, joy and a smoother path for couples. Flirtation flows with ease from single Roosters, whose “friendships” take a more intimate course. A change in living situation or residence may also materialize. Most fortunate period of the year is between April 5th and June 5th, 2003.

The Watchful Dog - The “Vanquishing Vigilante.”
Some important encounters and turns of events are on the horizon for Dogs this year. These will have a decisive influence on your future life path. Professional life advances, but with this success comes envy from others. These irritations strengthen your emotional resistance and “thicken your skin” regarding criticisms. Make good choices and identify who your friends and adversaries are. Certain Dogs may also be susceptible to mild sprains, back or joint aches. It will be in your partners interest to spice up your union, as too much routine in your love-life could cause you to seek more passionate pastures. A simple and authentic relationship brings long-term happiness. Prudence can improve your financial well-being if you avoid risks, compulsions or gambling. Best luck of the year between February 4 through April 5 and June 5 through July 7, 2003.

The Tolerant Pig - The “Accommodating Pacifist.”
Financial resources improve under the influence of this Goat year for easy-going Pigs. An excellent year to begin or expand a business or career objective, with many occasions to demonstrate your proficiency. A promotion could necessitate relocation - this would be most advantageous. Do not drive at night if tired or stressed during May, August or November. More intensity and passion is in store romantically as married Pigs strengthen their unions and single Pigs may not remain so for long. Quell any health worries, as Pigs enjoy good resistance if over-indulgence in food or drink are avoided. A wonderful year full of professional expansions, and a most delicious love-life. Best luck of the year between February 4th and April 5th, and July 7th through August 8th, 2003.

Wishing you the 5 traditional Chinese blessings of, Longevity, Wealth, Love of virtue, Vital Health, and a Natural Ending.

Shelly Wu