What makes a Dragon?

We are a mere week away from Chinese New Year! I hope the year of the Rat brings you good fortune, prosperity and happiness.

I feel about astrology the same way I feel about anything that hasn't been proven to exist, like ghosts or god. I find it amusing and interesting to contemplate but don't put a whole lot of stock in it. Nonetheless, it is always fun to read these sorts of "personality profiles" and more often than not they can provoke real thought and insight into your own personality or at least how you view yourself.

I was born in the year of the Dragon. A Fire Dragon to be specific. I have always felt that this must be some sort of mistake. Dragons are typically described as firebrands, quick to anger, ambitious leaders. None of which really fits what I think of myself. (Interestingly my western astrology sign is Pisces which is kind of the polar opposite.) Mrs. H reminded me that there are different ways to interpret those qualities and then yesterday I came upon this description which stopped me cold:


Personality

Occupying the 4th position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon is the mightiest of the signs. Dragons symbolize such character traits as dominance and ambition. Dragons prefer to live by their own rules and if left on their own, are usually successful. They’re driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks. They’re passionate in all they do and they do things in grand fashion. Unfortunately, this passion and enthusiasm can leave Dragons feeling exhausted and interestingly, unfulfilled.


While Dragons frequently help others, rarely will they ask for help. Others are attracted to Dragons, especially their colorful personalities, but deep down, Dragons prefer to be alone. Perhaps that is because they’re most successful when working alone. Their preference to be alone can come across as arrogance or conceitedness, but these qualities aren’t applicable. Dragons have tempers that can flare fast!

Now I wouldn't say everything in here describes how I see myself, but a lot of it hits kind of close. It's also made me rethink a lot of the frustration I've been having in my life lately.

So what's your sign?
Does it describe you well?

*Definitely use the calculator, especially if you have an early birthday. the Chinese New Year falls on a different day every year so don't go by the years on restaurant placemats! I've had friends who for years thought they were Dragons and Rats only to discover they were actually Rabbits and Pigs.