To be able to practice five things everywhere under heaven constitutes perfect virtue...[They are] gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.

To go beyond is as wrong as to fall short.

Virtue is more to man than either water or fire. I have seen men die from treading on water and fire, but I have never seen a man die from treading the course of virtue.

Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have neighbors.

What the superior man seeks is in himself. What the mean man seeks is in others.

What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.

When a man's knowledge is sufficient to attain, and his virtue is not sufficient to enable him to hold, whatever he may have gained, he will lose again.

Confucius (Read more inside ..)

When fear and worry test your faith,
and anxious thoughts assail,
remember God is in control,
and he will never fail...

There may be those on earth
who dress better, eat better, live better
But those who enjoy the peace of God
Sleep better and wake-up happier...

Life has its ups and downs
sometimes the sun shines,
sometimes the rain pours,
but don't forget it take both
Sun and rain to make a rainbow
Live a new day ahead.... (Read more inside ..)

Life is too short, grudges are a waste of perfect happiness, laugh when you can, apologize when you should, and let go of what u cannot change, love deeply and forgive quickly… take chances, give everything and have no regrets.

Life is too short to be unhappy, you have to take the good with the bad, smile when your sad. Love what you got… need always remember what you had… always forgive but never forget… learn from your mistakes but never regret… people change and things go wrong but always remember…. Life goes on….

Life is too short so don’t be idle, make your self worthy to your family, society, country and most of all to our all mighty…. Do good deeds to others, utter good words, plant only good memories in your heart….

Life is too short….
Life is too short…. (Read more inside ..)

Most of us have had similar experiences. We think ahead and carefully work out a plan. We picture in our minds with great detail how our future is going to unfold. But things don't go as planned. Some doors close, while others open. If this happens to you, it may be that God has something completely different in mind.

It's good to plan and dream and think ahead. But we must always be open to God-appointed changes in direction. God will never mislead us, when we trust him with all our heart, he will direct our paths. His way is always best. (Read more inside ..)

The scholar who cherishes the love of comfort is not fit to be deemed a scholar.

The superior man cannot be known in little matters, but he may be entrusted with great concerns. The small man may not be entrusted with great concerns, but he may be known in little matters.

The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.

The superior man is satisfied and composed; the mean man is always full of distress.

The superior man...does not set his mind either for anything, or against anything; what is right he will follow.

There are three things which the superior man guards against. In youth...lust. When he is strong...quarrelsomeness. When he is old...covetousness.

Things that are done, it is needless to speak about...things that are past, it is needless to blame.

Confucius (Read more inside ..)

A smile can help reduce our pain
and lighten our despair
But you trust in God gives
inner peace and joy beyond compare
have a blessed day under Jesus love care... (Read more inside ..)

Sometimes we must be
hurt in order to grow,
fail in order to know,
lose in order to gain,
and sometimes we have to be broken
so we can be whole again. (Read more inside ..)

The Ox

Those born under the influence of the Ox are fortunate to be stable and persevering. The typical Ox is a tolerant person with strong character. Not many people could equal the resolution and fearlessness the Ox exhibits when deciding to accomplish a task or an objective. As we used this great creature long ago to plow the soil day after day, so do Ox people labor through their daily responsibilities either at work or at home without complaint or gripe. Oxen know they will succeed through hard work and sustained effort and find no truth or benefit in concocting get-rich-quick schemes.

Years of the Ox

Ox years are second in sequence and recur every twelve years. The Chinese New Year does not fall on a specific date, so it is essential to check the calendar to find the exact date on which each Ox year actually begins.

THE SIGN OF THE OX

Pragmatic and down-to-earth, Ox people are motivated to work hard and have no respect for lazy or careless people. Although they can be easily trusted and find it easy to put trust in others, they are not dependent on friends and family and would rather find an answer or a solution themselves than to ask these people for help or guidance. However, others can, without a doubt rely on Oxen, who are always honest and meticulous about their responsibilities. While they do not feel the need for many distant or acquaintance-oriented friendships, they value the strong bonds they share with their partners and families, and make close friends that last a lifetime.

Though they are quite open-minded, once Ox people have made a decision about something, they rarely change it. This is a defining characteristic that can be seen as obstinacy, but it is actually the way an Ox learns to be strong, brave and straightforward. It is the way the Ox learned to take on tasks and responsibilities and how he learns to be reliable for others. Oxen are more comfortable with the well-known as opposed to the unfamiliar. Yet, beneath their unpretentious, tranquil exterior lies a heart of gold and a motivation to prosper.

OXEN FACTS:

People born in the Year of the Ox share certain characteristics. The Ox sign is an abbreviated way of characterizing that individual’s personality. Following are features associated with the sign of the Ox.

Second in order, Chinese name—NIU, sign of industry

Hour—1am-2:59am Month—January

Western Counterpart—Capricorn

CHARACTERISTICS

Obstinate, Pouty, Truthful, Motivated, Friendly, Apathetic, Genuine, Quick-tempered



IN YOUR ELEMENT

The characteristics of the Ox sign are tempered by one of the five Chinese elements of Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth overlaying a 5-year cycle of characteristics on the original 12-year cycle.

THE METAL OX 1901 AND 1961

Metal Ox people work harder and more scrupulously than most people, including other Oxen. They always show a boldness and drive and will stop at nothing to achieve their goals. Like all Oxen, they are completely trustworthy and dependable, but they are not ones to display their emotions freely or openly. These Oxen have the strength of steel, with a will to match. Often, this strength and ruthless will make it difficult for them to identify with the feelings of others around them. However, an Ox is always willing to defend what he knows to be true and won’t give up until he has proven what he knows to be true.

THE WATER OX 1913 AND 1973

The Water element gives the Ox a flexibility and liberty. Water Oxen are as hard-working as anyone, and particularly systematic, and are probably the quickest-thinking of the other elemental Oxen. They are much more prepared than the other Oxen to recognize the pints of view of others and to think about their ideas and suggestions, making them easy to work with in a business environment. They generally consider the feelings of others which makes them good roommates or partners. In addition, their sincerity and patience ensures their popularity with friends, peers and family.

THE WOOD OX 192S AND 1985

Understanding and fair, these are the least unyielding of the Oxen and the most apt to change and accept new ideas. A more liberal attitude gives them the ability to appreciate the value of being a part of a team, and other members of the team respect the high principles of the Wood Ox. They are particularly self-confident giving them an air of unspoken authority. This characteristic means that Wood Oxen are often chosen as leaders or spokespeople. They also have a shorter fuse than other Ox people, and are more likely to be outspoken or to stand up in a crowd to be heard. These Oxen are quite devoted to those they love and make strong and affectionate friends and relations.

THE FIRE OX 1937 AND 1997

Being born under the fire sign gives these Oxen dynamic qualities. Their leadership capabilities are tremendous, and they have to desire to be in charge so they generally hold positions of status and importance at work and in the community. They are capable of being extremely objective, but these Oxen can display hot tempers, throw temper-tantrums or be unusually impulsive in their decision-making. This can be dangerous because it may cause them to brush aside valuable ideas, discarding them before actually considering the implications associated with doing so. Even so, they tend to be loyal people. Devoutly dedicated to their family.

THE EARTH OX 1949 AND 2009

The most reliable and diligent Oxen belong to this collection of Oxen. The Earth element balances many of their negative characteristics. These Oxen are show good judgement, a good characteristic for successful financial dealings. Other people tend to look up to Earth Oxen because of their reliability, sincerity and their modest ambitions. They are willing to tackle the workload when it become overbearing for others and are loyal and compassionate with family and friends.

HEALTH AND HOME

HEALTH

People born under the sign of the Ox usually have strong codes and work ethics. This can lead to a tendency to be a workaholic, and they should make an effort to relax more. Many Oxen work in relatively stationary occupations, and would benefit from squeezing a little exercise into their routines. They are prone to bone and joint problems - especially the knees - and must pay special attention to these areas. However, Ox people are usually strong and robust, and, according to ancient wisdom, should be blessed with long lives.

AT HOME WITH THE OX

The Ox’s home is his castle, a place where he finds relaxation and peace from the everyday hustle and bustle of his career or responsibilities. This is where he spends time with his friends and loved ones. The Ox person doesn’t put a lot of effort into making his house stylish, for he would much rather be comfortable while reading the newspaper or watching television. He doesn’t spend much time indoors anyway—he wants to be outside, smelling the air, planting gardens and trees, which will usually be evidenced by the botanical literature you will find on his bookshelf or on his coffee table. Ox people prefer to live in the country. The Ox generally prefers to decorate his home with nature’s colors, i.e. golds, greens and oranges. However, since the Ox is associated with January, winter colors might be more appealing.



CAREER AND FINANCE

THE OX ON THE JOB

Able, ethical and aware, colleagues of the Ox will marvel at their methodical approach and will depend on their eyes for detail. Oxen are not phased by routines, probably because they are so well-organized. They are better-suited for specialized positions and prefer to work in large companies. They do, however, work best when they work alone since they can be unhappy when participating in a large group.

MONEY AND THE OX

Oxen believe in security, and thus don’t usually take wild risks or financial gambles. They are meticulous about spending money and work hard to ensure they will be able to retire comfortably.

OX CAREERS

Those born in the Year of the Ox share the same kinds of goals and objectives in life. The occupations best suited for the Ox are listed below:

OX MAKE EXCELLENT:

Painters

Interior designers

Carpenters

Mechanics

Horticulturists

Engineers

Draftsmen

Architects

Army Officers

Managers

Quarry Workers

Academics

Archeologists

Osteopaths

Physioherapists

Bankers

Investment brokers

Real estate agents

CONGENIAL BUSINESS PARTNERS

Whether Oxen are compatible with their business partners depends on whether their signs are harmonious or antagonistic to those of their business partners. Considering the congruity of their own characters and the characters of their business partners can also be very useful.

Rats Ruled By Benefit From Are Antagonistic to

Metal Earth Roosters Fire Tigers

Water Metal Rats Earth Horses

Wood Water Pigs Metal Sheep

Fire Wood Oxen Water Dogs

Earth Fire Snakes Wood Monkeys



Leisurely activities and pleasures

LIKES AND DISLIKES

The Ox is a lover of stability, a great traditionalist and a homemaker. Rarely would you expect an Ox person to be an extrovert pleasure-seeker. They are happiest in the peace of their own home territory.

Oxen Like:

Color Preference: Violet

Gems and Stones: Jade, Emerald, Moss-Agate, Lapis-Lazuli

Suitable Gifts: Kitchen accessories, gardening and planting books, cookbooks, bonsai trees

Hobbies and Pastimes: Body-Building, Baking, Gardening, Listening to music, Sewing

Oxen Dislike: Making small talk, foolish games, feeling insecure

THE OX VACATION

Actually, Oxen are homebodies, preferring the lure of the sofa or the garden to extravagant vacations far away from home. They are very happy just staying at home, spending their summer vacations catching up with the hobbies and pastimes that their workloads have prevented them from taking on previously. Whether they are planting flower beds, or enjoying a sunset on their newly-built front porch, it is all quite satisfying to them. If they do decide to take a trip, you can bet they’ll head for the hills to do some hiking or rock climbing.



FRIENDS AND ENEMIES

Oxen are not the most sociable people and tend not to mix easily in social gatherings. Instead, they would rather be at home, enjoying their privacy and anonymity. Unlike the Rat, the Monkey, or the Rooster, the Oxen tend not to have a little black book, preferring a few very loyal friends to a large network of acquaintances. Oxen do know how to shine at social occasions, but more often than not they dislike small talk. These are wary people, unlikely to ignite friendships on the spur of the moment. They like to take their time and get to know people before disclosing themselves fully. A happy, solid relationship with their partner and children is the most satisfying goal they could accomplish.

OX PARENTS AND CHILDREN

Oxen make very protective parents. People born under this sign will unselfishly work their fingers to the bone to provide a thriving, happy and secure home where their children feel safe. In return, however, the Ox mother and father demand that their youngsters be courteous, respectful and polite. In comparison to other parents, Oxen can seem a bit authoritarian but they are conventional and believe in instilling within their children a belief system. A good education is especially important and by utilizing their educational opportunities, Oxen children can make their lives and relationships with their parents a lot easier. Ox parents expect their children to listen, behave and be attentive while they are at school. Showing rebellion is the fastest way to be punished in the Oxen household.

Oxen, especially female Oxen, tend to start their families early on and completely immerse themselves in caring for and parenting their children. This can lead to dependent children and can pose a problem for parents who are trying to teach their children to become self-reliant.

THE OX INFANT AND CHILD

Children born under the sign of the Ox are quiet and amenable. They develop into solid, independent,

resourceful children, and are happiest when left to entertain themselves. If interrupted, provoked or forced

to do something against their will, they are likely to pout or show themselves, despite their audience.

Generally, Ox-born children are shy, and for many, childhood is quite lonely partly due to them liking to be

alone and partly because their siblings are usually much older or younger than they.

At school, subjects with a constructive appeal will be of the most interest to them. They like art and music as well. They are creative children who enjoy sports too. They are respectful, polite, hard-working, children…something their parents take very seriously.

OXEN PARENT/CHILD KINSHIPS

Some parents click immediately with their children and some find they will never have a close relationship no matter how hard they try to make it happen. Following are the compatibility ratings between Oxen parents and their children.

Oxen with Under the same roof Compatibility Rating

Rat noble parent, respectable child ****

Ox pretty much equal ***

Tiger not much understanding *

Rabbit happy at home ***

Dragon some problems to sort out **

Snake on similar planes ***

Horse little compromise *

Sheep too sensitive *

Monkey a lot of fun together ****

Rooster solid relationship ****

Dog not much interaction *

Pig essentially harmonious ***

COMPATIBILITY RATINGS:

*uphill struggle **some complications ***easy bonding ****on the same wavelength

Lovers and spouses

THE OX LOVER

Oxen dislike chit-chat. They don't have fun at parties and as aforementioned, don’t have a ton of friends. They are not very sociable and would rather be spending their time at home with their families. When the Ox is in love, he does not confirm his feelings verbally, preferring to show you how he feels rather than tell you. An Ox will take a long time to decide if you are the right match for him because Oxen hate change, and want to find someone who is ready to embark upon a stable marriage. Oxen never rush into anything and are not flirtatious people. Once they have committed to you they will usually be faithful and expect reciprocation of their honorable actions.

MARRIAGE

Unfortunately, many Ox marriages do fall apart after a couple of years, possibly because the Ox is too dominant or inflexible. Perhaps it's because, Oxen tend to place blame on everyone but themselves. But if an Ox fortunate, and has chosen wisely, the couple can build and maintain a close-knit family to which the Ox will completely devote himself.

THE OX LOVE PARTNER

Oxen are strong, silent, reliable people who sometimes take for granted that their relationship is a partnership and that they make not always be the dominant figure. Other Animals may find them quite stubborn and overbearing. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to be successful in love and in business. Yet, though destiny can point us in the right direction, we must still make all efforts to maintain loving relationships. Following is a brief description of how an Ox will affect a relationship with other Animal signs.

PARTNERS IN LOVE

Ox*Rat

Really good sex, but you’ll better serve each other as an affair. Marriage isn’t a good idea.

Ox*Ox

A solid partnership, but a wee bit boring.

Ox*Tiger

You are completely drawn to each other but headed for a dead end.

Ox*Rabbit

As lovers you’ll have a solid, content marriage.

Ox*Dragon

Give-and-take is not your forte and you are both more stubborn than the other.

Ox*Snake

You are headed for happiness!

Ox*Horse

Better in business than in bed.

Ox*Sheep

You may be phyiscally attracted to each other, but there’s not much substance here.

Ox*Monkey

If you can make it work, you’re destined for happiness and a lot of fun!

Ox*Rooster

Sexually stimulating, passionate and spontaneous…this should be a good fit.

Ox*Dog

You probably aren’t truly comfortable with each other…there’s a reason for that. Not much in common.

Ox*Pig

Passion and similar opinions destine you for a successful marriage.

Love Partners at a Glance

Oxen with Tips on Togetherness Compatibility

Rat similar appreciation ***

Ox strong, but apathetic **

Tiger completely different attitudes *

Rabbit delicate and loving ***

Dragon love at first sight, then stalemate *

Snake Majestic ****

Horse too argumentative *

Sheep No way *

Monkey okay, but no spark **

Rooster Wonderful ****

Dog Doubtful, but there’s hope **

Pig worth trying **

COMPATIBILITY RATINGS:

*dispute **keep working at it ***intense sexual attraction ****angelic

EAST MEETS WEST

ARIES OX

Aries Oxen are goal-oriented and attain success by persevering. They charge through life and do not let opposition slow them down. In love they are not subtle and like to be the dominant figure in the relationship. Only a strong, trustworthy partner will make this a lasting partnership.

LIBRAN OX

These Oxen are good employers and employees because they are easy to get along with and listen to what you have to say. They like to keep the peace and don’t like to rock the boat. They are always trying to achieve perfection personally and romantically.

TAUREAN OX

Solid, yet flexible, Taurean Oxen are probably the most steady and most laid-back of all the Oxen. Obstinate and persistent, they get what they want by plodding on.

SCORPIO OX

Determination and strong will characterize the Scorpio Ox. These Oxen will strive and do whatever they must in order to reach their goal. They are intense lovers, but you’ll never be able to read their emotions because they keep them tucked away.

GEMINI OX

These Oxen have strength of purpose. They are outgoing and like to be around other people. They are funny and sociable, use these traits to excel in business.

SAGITTARIAN OX

These Oxen have Sagittarian vision. They are born with luck and are prone to take unnecessary risks. They are quick to read a situation and use their talents to accumulate great wealth and status.

CANCERIAN OX

Sensitivity and motivation ensure that Cancerian Oxen develop highly-creative skills. At home their family are essential to their happiness and well-being.

CAPRICORN OX

Capricornian Oxen are made of true resolute. A sustained effort allows them to achieve a very comfortable way of life. They are conservative and responsible and will work long hours to provide their loved ones with security and comfort.

LEONINE OX

This combination produces leaders who feel the need to be in control. They also take themselves seriously and throw themselves into any project they under take. They are happiest with an adoring partner who will love them completely.

AQUARIAN OX

This duality combines a light spirituality with a predictability quite unlike anything you’ve ever seen. They contradict each other in a way, but value free-thinking and intelligence.

VIRGO OX

These individuals are practical but they can lose sight of what’s important and can fuss over small details. Unmatched in honesty and ethics, they are responsible and respected.

PISCEAN OX

Sensitivity influences the toughness of the Ox to produce a delicate personality, with unlimited creativity and perspicacity. Piscean Oxen are artistic and would rather work behind the scenes than be a visible member of the team. (Read more inside ..)

Year of the Earth Ox

The Chinese New Year begins January 26th, in the sign of the Ox, in the element earth. The Ox is a working animal (some say beast of burden), and a valuable asset to a family that lives close to the land. It heralds a year of plodding, but steady progress, and the careful building of things meant to last.

The Ox is the second sign of the Chinese zodiac. Like its predecessor and complement, the Rat, it signifies new beginnings. The main difference is the Ox is associated with building to last and slow but sure action. Even more so than last year we all have to make good choices, as that which is begun now is likely to have long term consequences.

As with last year, this is an Earth year. The difference is this one is yin rather than yang. It is thus likely to be less tumultuous. On a personal level, better results are more likely to be achieved by reacting to circumstances and going with the flow rather than aggressively charging forward and initiating a lot of action.

Unfortunately Earth has a destructive relationship with the Ox's fixed element, Water. In fact this is the fourth in a run of six years governed by an unlucky conflict of elements. This fact should come as no surprise to those who have followed US and world financial markets or the unspeakable horror that has persisted in Iraq.

The combination of Earth and Ox, however, is not at all a negative combination. Its primary characteristic is durability. It suggests an environment dominated by cautious pragmatism rather than quixotic dreaming. Things will get done.

Furthermore, they will generally be successful if done in harmony with the spirit of the Earth Ox. This applies both to the type and amount of new projects as well as the approach to accomplishing them. That means focusing on just a few, long term projects. It also suggests proceeding in a cautious yet determined manner. Finally, it counsels avoiding taking unnecessary risks and yielding to the temptation to seek short term gains.

Since this is an Earth year, those people born in a Metal year will generally fare better than others of their animal sign, while those born in a Water one are likely to do worse than those born in Wood, Fire, and Earth years.

The year 2009 will be a period of lasting accomplishments. This is true for individuals, societies and the human race in general. There may be times when motivation appears to be lacking. In fact the big challenge everyone faces is to generate the enthusiasm and desire to act. Those individuals and organizations that do will create enduring benefits for themselves and the world. (Read more inside ..)

Recompense injury with justice, and recompense kindness with kindness.

The cautious seldom err.

The determined scholar and the man of virtue will not seek to live at the expense of injuring their virtue. They will even sacrifice their lives to preserve their virtue complete.

The firm, the enduring, the simple, and the modest are near to virtue.

The man of virtue makes the difficulty to be overcome his first business, and success only a subsequent consideration.

The man who in view of gain thinks of righteousness; who in the view of danger is prepared to give up his life; and who does not forget an old agreement however far back it extends - such a man may be reckoned a complete man.

The people may be made to follow a path of action, but they may not be made to understand it.

Confucius (Read more inside ..)

God makes us brave when we are afraid,
make us strong when we are weak,
but most of all, he teaches us
to hold on to him when things keep falling.

It's not how good you jump
over the obstacles,
nor how fast you get to the top,
but how often you stop to help
people that makes life worthwhile.

There is always one thing
to be thankful for every morning
that is being able to open our eyes
and see the beauty of being
alive under God's grace.... (Read more inside ..)