Chinese Horoscope Bodes Well for Bush

T A I P E I, Taiwan, Jan. 24, 2001 -- 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."

Those born under the symbol are supposed to be diplomatic,charming, deep-thinking and romantic, but they can also be stingywith money, vain and unfaithful in marriage.

Famous snakes include President Kennedy and Chineserevolutionary leader Mao Tse-tung — both charismatic philanderers.The two leaders of the world's largest Chinese states, Taiwanand China, should be worried about the upcoming year, according toChinese astrology. Taiwan's President Chen Shui-bian and ChinesePresident Jiang Zemin are both tigers — bitter enemies of thesnake.

Trouble in China

China's anticipated entry into the World Trade Organization thisyear could shake up the giant communist nation's economy and bringinstability. The country's secretive leadership is also gearing upfor a transfer of power — traditionally a time of infighting andmaneuvering.

In Beijing, the Year of the Snake got off to a tense start withprotests in Tiananmen Square. On the eve of the holiday, fivemembers of the outlawed Falun Gong sect set themselves on fire, apossible sign the group is becoming more radical despite Jiang'saggressive campaign to quash it.

Trouble in China could create problems for Taiwan's Chen. SomeChina watchers believe that Chinese leaders could try to divert thepublic's attention from domestic woes by increasing hostilitieswith Taiwan, which Beijing considers a breakaway province.

Following a Taiwanese tradition, Chen traveled to his hometownin southern Taiwan to hand out red envelopes of money, known as"hongbao." Thousands lined up for the gift, worth $6.

Taiwanese astrologer Lin Chen-yi said the intelligent butstubborn Chen is a "sparkling sun" whose success depends onwhether he can share glory with others.

"The Year of the Snake is a year to plant seeds and consolidateyour base," Lin said. "By next year, the Year of the Horse, thedark cloud will dissipate to unveil the sun if the right things aredone."