A Projection for 2011 Starting from the Chinese New Year
From Ralph and Lahni de Amicis
Contents
Preamble
Introduction
1: About Forecasting
2: The Human Forecast
The 12 Sun Signs
3: The Global Forecast
4: Women’s Rights
The Regional Forecasts
5: North America
6: South America
7: Japan and Australia
8: African Unity
9: Europe and Turkey
10: Tunisia and Egypt
11: The Middle East
12: As the Year Goes On
Preamble
This is a multi-part forecast and we suggest that you read it all, especially if you are interested in global politics and economics, but if time is of the essence and your interest is more specific then read the Introduction, the Human Forecast, the short Global Forecast, your Regional Forecast (The USA has the largest forecast), and finally at the end, As the Year Goes On.
Introduction
This is the Year of the Metal Rabbit, which starts at the New Moon in Aquarius on February 2nd, with the 3rd being considered the first day of the New Year. Even though we use the Chinese New Year as the set point for the forecast, the techniques we use are primarily western, and to a great extent, very modern. Before the final quarter of the 20th century, this kind of forecast would have been either very difficult, or most probably, impossible. Having access to computers, software, historical references, satellites, and the world’s news via brilliant observers and the World Wide Web is what makes this possible. Our mention of the Metal Rabbit is the last mention of Chinese Astrology that you will see in this forecast, except to say that it is a traditionally lucky and surprisingly industrious year, because Metal relates to tools and money, and Rabbits like their comforts. But the Metal Rabbits are willing to work hard to get them.
1: About Forecasting
When we do our yearly forecast we are as much Futurists as we are Astrologers, because we use tools and information from both fields. While we look at the position of the planets, now and into the future, we also research global politics, economics, weather and geological patterns. The advantage of observing planetary patterns is that they repeat, so we can see how those patterns previously manifested in society to get an idea of how they will play out now and in the future.
What makes forecasting challenging is that, while components repeat, the overall pattern changes. When we use the Chinese New Year as a set point we are using one of the most researched conjunctions, the Sun and Moon in Aquarius, and repeating patterns, the relative positions of Jupiter and Saturn. The relative movements of those two planets are a critical indicator of financial cycles. In fact, the effect of this cycle on the financial cycles of Germany was the subject of a famous bet between two of the most famous Astronomer/Astrologer/Mathematicians, Tyco Brahe and Johannes Kepler. By proving the correlation Kepler lost the bet.
The reason that the CNY (Sun & Moon conjunct in Aquarius) is significant is because it is a set point when the energy of the Earth withdraws before beginning a new cycle. That doesn’t mean other planetary cycles don’t contribute, it is the combination of these cycles that creates the theme for the year as well as its place in the sequence of years. This is why we look at the CNY charts both past and future.
One of the unique features of this forecast is that it is localized, in other words, not every place experiences the year in the same way. Each region around the world experiences its own high points and low points due to which planets are overhead. With that in mind, we will look at the more personal, human forecast first, and then the global picture. Finally, we’ll look at the regional forecasts.
2: The Human Forecast
How will you experience this year on a personal level? Of course, how your own chart interacts with the CNY chart is the main indicator, but just like the weather, no matter what your job or your mood, when it rains everyone is going to get wet, some more than others. In the same way, the overall background of the year affects everyone on an intimate level, although your own chart will decide whether or not you remembered the umbrella. What is the year like? This is a very positive year, as is 2012, where the archetypes that organize society are able to express themselves fully so that people will feel like the players are obvious, and the game is well played. People will also feel like improvements are progressing at a good clip, so if you have projects you want to do, get to it. The first six month of the year have tremendous momentum.
With Jupiter passing over the Aries point, it feels like a new day and there is a generally hopeful mood. Jupiter is moving fast and you might be amazed how enthusiastic others are when introduced to a good idea. People may be impulsive and tempers might flair, but let it bounce off of you because the hurt feelings won’t linger because so much is getting done.
There is a strong sense of mission and that adhering to the tasks serves the greater good and feeds the soul. If you don’t have a mission, find one, quick! Skills will be very highly valued. Creativity and talent with tools and technology will count for a lot. The advent of Facebook and the Social Network has seared the concept of ‘Meritocracy’ into our consciousness that we have a new ‘elite’ based on skills. This is the year to expand your knowledge, develop unique talents; artistic, design, foreign and technical languages, math and spreadsheets. Focus on whatever will expand the breadth of your personality. That is the mission of Jupiter (expansion) in Aries (personality).
Respect the women and girls in your life. They are vibrating at a particularly high frequency this year and it will be felt on a deeply hormonal level. Their rights and beliefs are the bedrock of humanity and any abuse of those beliefs is a wound to the collective soul. With so much of the chart controlled by Saturn in Libra, the need for us to form and maintain fair and productive partnerships is essential. The partnerships that you form this year have the potential for wonderful longevity, yielding tremendous satisfaction.
The Twelve Signs – Or “What’s in it For Me?”
Please note that these personal forecasts are very general, as are most Sun Sign Projections. Your individual chart interactions will say much more about how the year is going to shape up for you. Even though this CNY based document is a Politico-Economic-Geologic forecast, Sun Sign forecasts are popular and people expect them, so we’ve included some observations for the 12 Sun Signs.
Aries: With Jupiter passing over your Sun and Saturn opposing it, the first part of the year will be energetic and expansive, and maybe a little reckless. You might feel that getting people to cooperate with you is like pouring concrete, slow and hard work. Enjoy the burst of energy but don’t overdo it because you are still just skin and bone and can’t really leap over the tallest building I a single bound; at least not without scraping your butt. This is a good year to travel and encounter people and products from foreign lands. It is also a good year to study philosophy or pursue professional skills. By summer, as Jupiter moves into Taurus, take your ideas and turn them into tangible benefits. This is a year in which you can accomplish a lot but you are going to have to follow the rules, and in this case, somebody else’s.
Taurus: The first part of the year it will seem like everything good is just around the corner and it is, because by the summer time things will start to hop. As the year winds up your energy will rise and your opportunities will expand. Watch out as the holidays approach because the tendency to spend too much on gifts will be pretty strong. This is a very active social year and you may find yourself putting a huge amount of energy into your work and public commitments, but don’t let your career and responsibilities fry your circuits, because they easily could this year. Use the speakerphone more often and watch out for headaches and neck aches that are caused by stress. The best way to deal with them is to take more time with your loved ones and let your home be your castle.
Gemini: This is a good year for Gemini with both Jupiter and Saturn supporting that quick and flexible energy. Dress a little more conservatively so that you will be attractive to the people with the power. They know that serious is not your strength, but they like the impression that you are dependable and that you fit in. This will lend you a great deal of leverage, use it wisely and you will see serious gains. After the summer, find ways to give back. Compassion and generosity to the needy is its own reward. This is a good year to expand your view of the world, transform your beliefs and philosophy. Your connection to the global society is through your own sense of integrated well being. In other words, your ability to balance your body, mind and spirit has global consequences, be responsible.
Cancer: The year may start off with challenges but don’t let them knock you down, rise to the occasion and stand up to them toe to toe, literally. There may be some very strong characters trying to run your life, so be prepared to step on some toes, if that’s the only way you can get them to give way. Be prepared to negotiate, but don’t give away the store and you will form some powerful partnerships. After the summer push, your cash flow to improve. Network and use your contacts. Do some home improvements, look at those problems in your living space that have bothered you for a while, and take the time to make them better. It will put you on a firmer emotional foundation, as well as making your family happier.
Leo: Even though you may feel like there is plenty to get done, and not everyone is on your side, you have some powerful allies, so don’t be afraid to accept their help and advice. Be proactive about your health this year; feed your hormonal system, and your nervous system. Read up and learn, and if you have a challenge, go to the acupuncturist first. When your spouse suggests being thrifty, please listen to them because it is good advice, but you’re not going to think of it yourself. Reconnect with your siblings and your steadiest friends, and if there are old disputes there, resolve them diplomatically and realize that good solutions often require patience, serious work and the willingness to see both sides of the situation.
Virgo: Your best skills this year will be the ones you enjoy the most. Isn’t that a great coincidence? Even though it may seem like work and may not appeal to your sometimes private nature, expand your computer skills and dive into social networking, manage your flock of friends and it will help prepare you for what’s coming next year. When you have to manage shared resources, step up to the plate and don’t be a shrinking violet, because you’ll get pushed around and your ideas are both fair and solid and need to listen to them. Some of the disruption that you have experienced related to the people surrounding your committed relationships may have created a sadness that you feel you must hide. Don’t worry and stop taking everyone else’s problems on your shoulders. You got in that habit when Saturn went through Virgo but that’s past now. Once you do, that sadness will fade away and be replaced with a greater sense of connectedness and joy. Don’t be surprised if your special joy this year comes from earthy and possibly exotic delights. Virgo is an earth sign, after all, so even if it seems complicated, enjoy!
Libra: When Saturn passes over your Sun sign, as it did last year and will again this year, it tends to make you feel stiff and older than you actually are. The only saving grace is that Saturn actually likes the sign of Libra and performs there with a modicum of civility and moderation. Face up to your responsibilities this year, because any other choice brings worse results. This can be an enjoyable year as long as you are willing to wade into the social fray and be part of the gang. Don’t neglect your home life even, though your partner may be demanding and at times, impulsive. At least they aren’t boring! Keep the home fires burning and investigate your genealogy and you will find that the process gives you a greater sense of who you really are. After the summer, look for opportunities that offer you leverage and cooperation.
Scorpio: Begin the year with an exercise program, or at least a healthier diet. Also, start a meditation program and be diligent and disciplined in making the time to connect with your inner resources. This is an important year to focus on your home and siblings. In the second half of the year, new people or situations will enter your life and it’s important to be prepared for possible new commitments. Spend time making your home more harmonious. Look for unhealthy sources of electromagnetic energy or toxic chemicals around you and deal with them. Many health problems have their source in synthetic, harsh chemicals that are used in the home for cleaning. Eliminating these toxins from your life will improve both your mood and your physical energy.
Sagittarius: This is potentially a fun year but watch out that you don’t overdo it. While you might feel self-indulgent, your sense of fiscal responsibility is rather overwhelming. Your normal happy go lucky style gives way to the need to manage your resources carefully, so keep good records. This is the year to learn those bookkeeping and accounting programs. You may feel that your cash flow is restricted, and your progress is stalled, hence the tendency to watch the pennies. Don’t worry, it will turn around again. This year you may feel pulled in two directions, watch the pennies or splurge on that exciting trip or toy that would be so much fun. Decisions, Decisions! Being an adult is tough. Save your money and after the summer put it to work on something practical that will improve your skills.
Capricorn: You have a lot on your plate this year, and a lot of people want your participation. Your sense of mission is currently strong, so if you are not working on something that inspires that dedication, then find something that does. It is all about that inner fire that makes you feel that you have inherited a mission, and you are prepared to pass it on to the next generation. You may feel inspired to be an advocate and speak up for your cause, and this can be healing to both you and others. Be careful about being too selfish in your home life. They are your family, not your subjects. Instead, be generous with your time and praise, and your loved ones will support you in your ventures. Don’t worry if your career seems to coast for a bit. Take the time to add to your skills and expand your resources.
Aquarius: This is a highly energetic year and your natural desire to act as a shepherd among your friends and community will be given ample opportunity. Be careful of your temper which can result in headaches. Watch out for over exposure to electromagnetic fields around the head (alarm clocks, cell phones). If you love to make things or pursue any art or craft, this is a great year to spend time in the studio. This will give you a deep sense of meaning and significance. Your ability to be creative through your hands is very strong this year. Also expand your understanding of spiritual pursuits, philosophy, pursuits that put knowledge and technique over simple belief. This is a good year to study a foreign language. You will have to the enthusiasm and discipline necessary. Take extra care of how you feed yourself physically and emotionally and you will expand the dimensions of your soul in wonderful ways.
Pisces: Last year Jupiter made you feel bigger than life, get over it. Jupiter moved and Chiron is coming to visit to give you the test. You have felt like your life is being run by forces beyond your control, and you’ve just been trying to stay afloat. For the past year you’ve been kicking back, both in retaliation and relaxation. But when Chiron comes to call it’s like the Borg, “Resistance is futile”. He wants to know how you are managing your body, mind and spirit connection, your well-being. The answer doesn’t matter to anyone as much as it does to you. Hint: during a Chiron transit, natural methods of healing are always preferred and the more you learn and acknowledge nature, the better the results. This is a good year to look in your pockets and see what is jingling. You’d better hope there aren’t any holes because the desire to invest in your future is pretty strong.
3: The Global Forecast
On a geologic level, there is a huge amount of disruption and pressure on the mid-pacific ridge to the west of Hawaii, so the ring of fire may be very active this year and the tsunami alert systems around Hawaii, Japan, Australia and the Philippines may get a workout. With the movement of Jupiter into Tropical Aries, we are at a reset point and due to its conjunction with Uranus; it is an especially electrifying one that connects the world together more than ever before. Not only does technology make it possible to detect these kinds of impending disasters, but it also rapidly alerts the world to disasters, complete with video.
4: Women’s Rights
This year women’s rights are going to be in high relief, especially in Myanmar, Thailand, central China, Western, sub-Saharan Africa, Eastern Europe, Greece and Turkey. Of course, these are all places where women’s rights are historically much more restricted. Expect to see powerful, feminist advocates emerging in these areas. Issues of sexual and reproductive rights will be highlighted.
Regional Forecasts
5: North America
In the USA, there is a reason that the population feels like they are being surpassed by China, India and Brazil, over the past decade the fortunate planets have been over those areas during the Chinese New Year chart, and the skies over the Americas have been mostly empty, with the exception of Mars and Saturn. These two planets speak about the dual weight of war and financial restrictions that have held sway as the USA has conducted two major wars. This year, the skies are clear although in 2012, Mars and Saturn make a reappearance which may speak about the continuing costs of the war in Afghanistan. However, since Mars sits directly over Venezuela and Saturn is off the coast of South America, that is possibly about some type of internal disruption there, either political or an perhaps an Earthquake. In 2013, the skies over the Americas are empty, and considering the weakness of the overall charts, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In the USA recently, there is a feeling that America has fallen behind but the reality is that more of the world is catching up. This is in large part due to the USA generously sharing technologies and business models with the world since the conclusion of WWII, when our industrial output represented 60% to 70% of the world’s GDP. Our government and businesses have been encouraging countries to adopt modern methods to produce prosperity and they listened. In 1980, 40% to 45% of the world’s population was living in stark poverty, on less than a dollar a day. That wouldn’t even pay for a cappuccino at Starbucks! As of 2004, the number of people living in poverty was down to 18%. When you see protests against globalization, keep that number in mind. The projections are that the number could be down to 12% by 2020.
That doesn’t mean that the USA hasn’t neglected its own infrastructure and educational systems, because they have. Last year’s CNY charts showed a willingness to change that trend and this year’s chart for the USA looks like a bowl eager to be filled up. Expect a return to people saving money, being fiscally responsible, cooperative ventures, prizing creativity, and a concentration on the family and the home as something that not only provides stability, but a legacy.
Since the chart for Washington, DC has Jupiter in Aries on the descending angle, expect immigration legislation to be right around the corner. The need to allow talented foreigners to stay in this country after availing themselves of one of the USA’s greatest industries; education, will be seen as key to creating a dynamic and innovative future. There will be a renewed sense of mission and dedication, and it may manifest as both a desire to export more American technology and manufactured products, and attract more International investments here. One of the highlights may be nuclear technology since the South East, which is highlighted in this chart, is home to major engineering firms specializing in this field. Almost all of their work is International, although the push for cleaner technologies, coupled with advances in technology and engineering may open the pathway for new, smaller nuclear plants in the USA. The East Coast is criss-crossed with a series of powerful angles so expect a busy and exciting year there, one that depends on making connections beyond the region, and even beyond the oceans. In comparison, the heartland from the Mississippi to the Great Salt Lake is quiet with clear skies and no angles, so if you live there, take a deep breath and coast for a bit. If you live in the Midwest, you may feel a bit like an observer this year because both coasts are hopping by comparison.
On the West Coast, through California, Oregon and Washington, the charts have Neptune on the descendant, replicating the success-tone of the Jupiter on the East Coast, reinforcing it with a global note. Powerful and profitable partnerships will be the name of the game, with a strong inclination to bring those profits home to restore the stability of this country’s infrastructure. Beware though, of situations that seem too good to be true, because while technologies will do remarkable things, there will be a fair number of scams around the edges.
Beneath the excitement, this is going to be a hard working year on the West Coast, including a revamping of the educational systems, especially at the vocational level. In California, expect the repeal of some significant laws that might have restricted taxes. Expect technology and entertainment companies to use their leverage to initiate International projects that are quite revolutionary. While the East Coast will come across as cooperative, innovative and brash, the West Coast may seem regal and commanding, making it seem easy while hiding all of the hard work that goes on behind the scenes.
Las Vegas has a descending Chiron line running through it so there may be some painful healing afoot there. They should watch out for health issues related to air, electrical and electromagnetic systems. With the USA in an increasingly hard working mood, the frivolity of Las Vegas may suffer a bit. But Chiron is about learning from challenges, so maybe they will begin to focus a bit more on the Spas and the healing power of relaxation, art and comedy. Maybe they need to abandon their ‘place to be naughty’ campaign and replace it with the ‘place to rejuvenate’. The Fountain of Youth rather than the Den of Iniquity.
6: South America
In South America the skies are also clear but the angles of course are different. Something is up with Panama and Ecuador this year, something disruptive, although potentially good, possibly political or technological. They are currently experiencing similar transits to Tunisia, and look what is happening there. Both Venezuela and Argentina are crossed by Saturn so expect contractions in those countries, although considering that rising oil prices will help Venezuela, it may be a hardening of attitudes towards governments with whom they have a beef, or it may be that they seek leadership in concrete partnerships, possibly with their partner to the South. Argentina may face restrictions similar to what Europe is dealing with as they try to rein in their escalating entitlement programs, and they may seek stronger partnerships as a way to strengthen their base.
Brazil enjoys very different stars and it will continue to focus inwardly as it cleans up its neighborhoods and its image in preparation for the Olympics. Its move to the forefront of the ethanol producing countries, thanks to their abundant sugar cane, has yielded not only a new prosperity but also a level of independence that is unique among the industrial countries.
7: Japan and Australia
The eastern coasts of Australia and Japan are bound together in a difficult, martial story and it may be that the flooding that overtook Queensland will have far reaching consequences for both countries in terms of health and their management of resources. Of course, that industrial dynamo Japan will have its own challenges, and this year echoes a pattern from last year when their leading light, Toyota, suffered issues to their dignity due to recalls. This year, thanks to a highly placed conjunction of Mars and Ceres, with the Sun and Moon, it’s starting off with the risk of engine fires in their most expensive brands. There are advantages and disadvantages in being the biggest car manufacturer, and as the year goes on, some of their innovations may lead to a fall of some kind. For Australia, this may mean a return of the devastating fires that wracked that country recently. Between the fires and floods, the economic hits that Australia has endured may mean a loss of both political and global leverage.
8: African Unity
Africa is powerfully under the influence of Saturn in Libra and while it will be a restrictive environment, the desire to create significant partnerships related to the management of hard resources will gain traction. It may be that the coalition that they have formed will gain strength and help put the continent on a firm footing. Saturn is the protective walls that defend our territory and Saturn in Libra may show a greater level of cooperation to defend the continent’s resources from excessive exploitation. It also looks like companies from South Africa will be the spokesmen and dealmakers. Once again, expect women to be major figures in this movement. Rather than make connections with New York or London, they will seek partners in South America, Venezuela, Brazil and Argentina.
9: Europe and Turkey
Overall, Europe will appear to be concerned with balancing the books this year, thanks to having Saturn, the Accountant, in Libra, the Balance, overhead, bisecting the European Union. The planetary line that runs north from the Congo along the eastern border of Turkey and through downtown St. Petersburg shows a strong need to be taken seriously, and to deal with the hard realities. However, that is not the only influence at work and the message goes from expansionistic Neptune defining the western edge of the EUs outreach, to opportunistic pair of Uranus and Jupiter over Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark, Norway and Sweden, to restrictive Saturn to the east, scribing a line from the western edge of Turkey straight up through the middle of Finland influencing Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Belarus, Poland, Moldova, Ukraine and Russia.
This disparity between the wealth generated by England’s global reach and Germany and Italy’s productivity, as compared to Eastern Europe’s older infrastructure will be highlighted this year, but it might resolve the continuing conflict between the EU and Turkey over their inclusion in the Union. The growing strength of the Turkish economy, as compared to the weaker sisters of the EU on their borders, means that Turkey’s inclusion could provide a helpful sea anchor, connecting the EU and the Middle East in much more productive ways. The financial imbalances within the EU have threatened the existence of the Euro and even the Union. The inclusion of the Eastern European countries tilted an already unsteady relationship. Yet, Eastern Europe has a long trading tradition with Turkey that goes back to Roman times. This is the year to make the deal to include Turkey in the EU and open up avenues of prosperity for Eastern Europe and the emerging democracies of the Middle East.
10: Tunisia and Egypt
Just before the 2011 Chinese New Year, a revolt took place in Tunisia. For those of you who don’t know, it is a small country on the African side of the Mediterranean Sea, just a hundred miles south of Sicily. In ancient times this was Carthage. On the Chinese New Year, the IC lines for Uranus and Jupiter, revolution and freedom, tightly straddled the country. The asteroid Juno was overhead, a proto planet that deals with jealously holding onto resources. The revolution was over the corrupt leaders enriching themselves at the expense of the middle class. They were taking the people’s resources and the middle class got mad. Talk about symbolism. The leaders fled the country and they will be dealing with the results over the coming year.
Immediately following that event, protests began in the streets of Cairo, but Egypt is under Saturn in Libra’s line, alongside a powerful crossing that has electrified the eastern Mediterranean Sea, so change will come grudgingly, in the courts, with connections to human, and most specifically women’s right, after long discussions. Unlike Tunisia, don’t expect the ruling class to depart, but they will be more willing to share the power. There may be a dramatic change in their legal system.
11: The Middle East
Grazie a Dio, after years of CNY charts where Mars, Saturn and Uranus, all indicators of war, hovered over Iraq and Afghanistan, this year the overall view is calmer as the skies are clear, although there are significant angles that have influence. In Iraq the skies are clear, even of angles, and the chance to take a breath, and act like humans again will be restorative. In Iran and Saudi Arabia people are talking, and when they are talking they are not shooting, or at least, not as much. In Afghanistan, the angles are made by the Sun, Moon and Mars so expect violence to be prominent, but a sense of leadership will emerge. Pakistan also experiences this pattern. Something that is a little problematic for the USA, after being so invested in that part of the world, is that these countries are going to be increasingly courted by and seeking financial connections with China and Japan.
12: As the Year Goes On
The hard work that the USA puts into going beyond their borders to make connections and establishing a renewed footing will result in a blossoming. By summer, there will be a sense of restored health and lifted spirits in the USA. South America will be feeling the pinch and Brazil may be employing some severe methods to put their house in order. Poor Japan will be dealing with a dramatic shift in their self-perception that may coincide with a drop in their overall output. However, that change may have good results long term. China will have its hands full as spiritual and ethnic movements in their heartland forcefully demand their place in the Sun. India, who started the year quietly, will begin to innovate technologically, and possibly, they will begin renovating their antiquated and tremendously inefficient legal system. That alone would help them compete on a global scale. In 2012 they are one of the most interesting countries to watch and it will start in Mumbai this year.
© 2011 Ralph & Lahni de Amicis www.SpaceAndTime.com
Drs. Ralph & Lahni de Amicis are speakers, consultants and authors of over 25 books on subjects as varied as Environmental Design (including their popular book Feng Shui and the Tango in Twelve Easy Lessons), Natural Health, Business, Travel and Astrology. They have been doing their Chinese New Year Forecast since 1996 and continue to do it because it is surprisingly accurate. www.SpaceAndTime.com
Disclaimer: This is a forecast based on various sources and depending on projections of possible events using both modern and traditional techniques. In other words, it’s better than a guess, while clearly being related. As such we take no responsibility for any losses or inconvenience you may experience based on this forecast. Ralph & Lahni de Amicis
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