Chinese Horoscope Bodes Well for Bush

T A I P E I, Taiwan, Jan. 24 -- President Bush — born in the Year of the Dog — should be glad to hear this bit of ancient Chinese wisdom: In the Year of the Snake, it's good to be a dog.

The Year of the Snake, which began today under the Chineselunar calendar, is a time some soothsayers say brings upheaval,disasters and revolution.

But Bush, born in 1946 — the Year of the Dog, according to the12-symbol Chinese horoscope — doesn't have to worry as much asothers. The dog gets along with the snake.

However, other factors must be considered for a more accurateprediction for Bush's first year in office, some Taiwanesesoothsayers said.

Examining a picture of the president, Taipei astrologer NiSu-chuan noted the firm and curved contour of the president's upperlip.

"At 54, his luck is determined by his lips, and his fortunethrives at this point," Ni said.

"His lips have nice contours, but not wide enough," she added,explaining that Bush may be good at continuing the policies of hispredecessor but not broad-minded or bold enough in ushering in anew era.

The degree of faith in astrology and fortunetelling varies amongChinese communities in Asia. In China, the communist governmentbanned astrology for years and belief in the ancient systems hasgreatly faded. However, the customs continue in Taiwan and HongKong, where people frequently consult fortunetellers before makingimportant decisions.

'Can't Be Too Good or Too Bad'

The start of the lunar new year is the biggest holiday for theChinese — about one-fifth of the world's population — and mostspent today feasting, showing off new clothes, praying intemples, playing mahjong and visiting friends and relatives.Thoughts also turned to what the new year will bring and manylooked for lucky signs.

Taiwanese astrologer Shao Chung-ling predicted this Year of theSnake, or "little dragon," would be calm.

"You won't see major successes or failures in world events,"Shao said. "The year can't be too good or too bad."