The Pig & Rat

What a good name for a pub… Perhaps, but I’m actually referring to the animals from the Chinese Zodiac.

I don’t mean the ones embedded in the grill of some Henry Ford far eastern vehicle export and, no I haven’t gone all earthy or decided to get in touch with my mystical chakras. I’m just having a mind broadening moment, educating myself or as some would say, filling my head with more shite!

Now the latter comment may in some ways be true but you would be amazed how useful a head full of trivia can be sometimes. I don’t really hold with the astrology, horoscope or predictions thing and, much of it appears to be mumbo jumbo to me however, I’m always interested in and open to other people’s beliefs.

For many hundreds of years the human race has had an inherent inner need to ‘believe’ in something. Whether the belief process is used as a life guide or something to be fearful of usually depends upon the individual. It’s also probably as simple as needing something (or someone) to thank for good fortune or, hang the blame on when it all goes wrong. After all, it’s always easier to castigate someone else for our own failings rather than look internally!

So, enough of the theological rambling… What does the Chinese zodiac actually say about me?

Born in the Chinese Year of the PIG

Personality: Occupying the last position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Pig symbolizes such character traits as diligence, compassion, and generosity. Pigs enjoy life and because they are entertaining, others enjoy their company. Pigs are giving souls and reap much enjoyment when they’re helping others, but sometimes they give too much. Honesty is what Pigs give and it’s what they expect to receive in return.

Pigs seek peace and will do what is necessary to maintain it. This trait, while admirable, sometimes makes it easy for others to take advantage of Pigs. Pigs are always doing for others, helping anyway they can, but rarely will they ask others for help. This can overwhelm and stress them, but Pigs don’t mind.

When it comes to money, Pigs enjoy spending more than saving. Thriftiness happens only occasionally, but Pigs do know how to find great deals.

Yes, I’ll go along with most of that… What next?

Health: Always seeking fun, Pigs often indulge more than they should. Excessive eating, drinking and smoking can cause sickness. Pigs aren’t very active and, combined with their excessive behaviours, cause them to gain weight. Pigs would benefit from adopting a healthier lifestyle.

Ah, some more home truths (unfortunately)!

Career: Pigs enjoy helping at work and can always be counted on. They enjoy opportunities that allow them to express their creativity. Pigs are detail-oriented, a trait admired by management. Pigs aren’t afraid to take on responsibility. Some good career choices for Pigs include: entertainer, caterer, doctor, veterinarian, or interior decorator. They’d do well in retail or hospitality.

Most of that correct too but I think it’s a bit out of kilter with the occupation stuff, I hate frickin’ decorating!

Relationships: Supportive and giving, Pigs make great partners. They’re affectionate and sexual and prefer staying home to going out. They enjoy what they have, especially their home and family. Once they find the right partner, they’re typically committed for the long-term. Compatibility; Pigs are most compatible with a Rabbit or Goat and incompatible with the Monkey and Snake. Pigs are most content at home, with family.

Well according to this bit I got the wrong type?

Apparently, compatibility with other ‘signs’ is scored on a scale of 1 – 10 with 10 being the best match. It looks like pigs don’t actually get a higher rating than 8 with any other so I was a bit pissed off about that. I might not have captured the ‘ideal’ Rabbit or Goat during my partnership quest however, I’m also very grateful that I didn’t get the Monkey or snake. What I did get was a Rat, a rather cute blonde one that I adore and will spend the rest of my life with (hopefully).

Who believes in all this mumbo jumbo any way?