A tiger’s stripes

By Amy Phan
Northwest Asian Weekly

The year of 2010 yields a promising 365 days for the metal tiger. A vigorous, hardworking, and roller-coaster kind of year, the forecast is anything but boring. Individuals born in the year of the tiger are known for their love of competition and fierce protection of loved ones. Though they are natural born leaders, they can also become stubborn if they realize they’re not in charge.

All Chinese astrological animal signs are combined with five elements: earth, water, metal, fire, and wood.

Each element speaks to one’s personality, traits, and future unique to their birth year.

While all tigers may roar loudly and exhibit prowess, their stripes are not as uniformly applied.

Metal tiger, 1950 and 2010

Metal tigers are known for their ability to be the center of attention. Once they set their goals, they are determined. They often project an image of being outspoken and tough. Metal tigers are cautioned against being too bossy. Since metal tigers are aggressive, they should learn how to become more flexible.

Metal tigers include individuals born in the year 1950 or 2010. Astrologists say they are strong, competitive, and fierce. Steadfast and always the center of attention, individuals who are born under the metal tiger sign are cautioned by experts to listen closely to others and not jump to conclusions.

Wood tiger, 1914 and 1974

Of all the tigers, the wood tiger is the team player. While most believe tigers demand attention, the wood tiger is the exact opposite. They do not feel the need to be in charge, and they tend to get along with others swimmingly. Compassionate and willing, wood tigers do whatever is necessary to help others. The wood tiger is a social butterfly, weaving in and out of most social groups confidently. They have many friends and don’t have dull conversations. However, like most tigers, wood tigers also need to learn how to control their emotions.

Earth tiger, 1938 and 1998

Like its name suggests, the earth tiger is well-grounded. Not letting in-the-moment circumstances bother them, these tigers are the zen-est of them all. They are cautious, and they like to look at all angles of a situation before making a decision. Earth tigers are known for their steadfastness, a trait that almost always guarantees success.  They are quiet, tranquil, and responsible — qualities that elude many of the other tigers — making the earth tiger able to focus on important tasks.

Water tiger, 1902 and 1962

With their high regard for others’ opinions, water tigers listen carefully to others. Their intuition makes them sound decision-makers. They are empathetic, able to relate to others, and they tend to be calmer.

Water dampens any inherent aggression and impulse of this powerful sign. They naturally gravitate towards noble causes, defending peace along the way.  Water tigers tend to give more than they receive. As a result, experts suggest that they find relationships that are more equal.

Fire tiger, 1926 and 1986

One could say that fire tigers are the boldest of the group. Eccentric, expressive, and vibrant, fire tigers are, more often than not, looking at the brighter side of things. The fire tiger’s energy is magnetic — often attracting others, making them great leaders. Creative, passionate, and impatient, fire tigers are known to have bursts of energy between bouts of exhaustion. As fire has the power to create and destroy, astrologists warn against the very traits that define this group. Too much stress will burn even the most flame-resistant fire tiger. ♦

Amy Phan can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.