Welcome to the Year of the Fire Pig
By Madam Loo

February 18 kicks off the Year of the Pig. According to Chinese astrology, Buddha invited all the animals living in the forest to a special gathering. He chose animals because humans were skeptical about his newfound philosophy. While he and the animals were situated beneath the jacaranda trees, Buddha pontificated. 

Twelve of the forest’s animals took his teachings to heart. According legend, Buddha allocated a specific year for each of his 12 new disciples, along with 12 distinct personalities that would blossom and perpetually recur, beginning with the Year of the Rat. 

Annually, each animal’s influence comes into play. The New Year for each sign commences during the new moon in the Aquarius sky. This year marks 4644 in the Chinese calendar. Since new moons don’t appear on an exact date, each animal’s reign begins and ends sometime in late January or mid-February and concludes during the following year’s new moon in Aquarius. 

Fully understanding all the nuances aren’t essential for one to enjoy the social science of Chinese astrology—unless one wishes to crunch mathematical calculations. Yet within the scope of Chinese astrology, comparing personalities of the mixed batch of animals isn’t what one would call a precise science.

The Pig: 1911-23-35-47-59-71-83-95-2007

Here’s the secret weapon: the very last sign. They sit in the back of the class. Pigs rarely sweep people off their feet without overtly showcasing initial brilliance. Because of an initial shyness, they refrain from shedding light on themselves. It isn't until one peers deeper into the Pig's persona that one discovers there’s a certain distinct intangible stemming from the gallant Pig. 

Pigs possess embedded kernels of knowledge. Once discovered, they blossom and bubble over, enabling them to discard their former shyness. Acceptance breeds confidence and they become gregarious, hold court and dazzle audiences articulating the nuts and bolts that link together an array of diversified subjects. If one delves further and questions them in-depth, one finds the acquired knowledge is a cornucopia of the trivial—as if they rented such tidbits of conversation like a tuxedo for an engaging evening. They know a little bit about everything, and a whole lot about nothing! 

They possess a broad understanding about multiple subjects, but in most instances they refrain from dedicating themselves to a particular specialty. This scattergun thirst actually stifles the diversified Pig from becoming a precise practitioner. Maybe it's because Piglets’ enormous appetites have them nibbling on the branches of many subjects. Without guidance, they tend to mentally wander. They are also gullible—an endearing quality—but too often their friendly nature is turned against them. 

Those Oinkers who do survive the trials and tribulations while attempting to accommodate the whims of others become wiser. But that’s only if they survive. Mature Pigs may harbor an inner skepticism. The Pig shields much of its feelings so hardly anyone notices. Pigs rarely dare to get into someone’s face. They'll stay quiet; they’ll listen and then formulate an opinion, wisely determining if they’re dealing with a friend or foe. Once confidant they aren’t about to be served on a stick, Pigs are lovable and earthy. 

Pigs dazzle the targets of their affection with a sales pitch that has them laughing and are quick to bond. They’re steadfast. When their allies face enemies, the Pig remains fiercely loyal. When the chips are down, check out who’s still at your side.

Often, Pigs also appear as easy marks. It’s essential that Pigs align themselves with those who have their interests at heart. The Pig is considered the most vulnerable of signs but one of the most fortunate. Jealousy does run through the animal world. Remember, despite their sturdy stance, their endurance and pure hearts, in many ways Pigs are not strong alone. But during trying times, you will marvel as they rise to the occasion and display unwavering valor for your sake as well as theirs. 

Similar to the Tiger, there’s something inherently sad about the Pig. A tinge of gloom lingers beneath the surface. It’s as if our Pig friend is frightfully hip about his opulent side that wallows in a pessimistic mud. Despite the talents, despite the good fortune, and despite all that can be found that’s nice and wonderful … a Pig’s a Pig! 

Without guidance or a sense of loyalty—stemming from those who recognize the Pigs’ fabulous potential—their futures will more than likely be muddled—or worse, doomed.

Don’t fret. The negative setbacks can be turned to their favor—if a Pig puts his or her hoof down. Our sow must recognize the envelopes of opportunity and possible allegiances, take command, become sternly pragmatic and stay clear-headed while focusing on the objective, and most importantly, protect what is rightfully hers.

Bear in mind that Pigs have difficulty saying no. They prefer to agree to just about all requests, large and small, from friends and family. They say yes to strangers, even enemies, perhaps to be forgiven or just to be accepted. They are “yes” machines, and that’s one reason they find difficulty refusing that last drink or the last roll of the dice, or the last chance for romance. That final at-bat could become either their salvation or ruination. They know and sense such defining resolution and are willing to accept the risks.

They’re hopeless romantics, envisioning being swooped away in a blissful love, a romance that may only exist within their piggy scope of things. When their passion surfaces, it rises to a degree not often witnessed from the likes of other signs. They love hard. They love deep. The Pig should choose carefully when pertaining to the heart, and do so only if there is merit. The Pig should scrutinize and make sure those beckoning branches on those inviting trees are visible through the camouflage that screens the forest of disillusionment. For those Pigs already linked to a mate, it just may be a better idea to remain satisfied and do their best to remain content. 

The Pig dabbles in a myriad of interests. Besides their ability to make money, their flamboyant gift for gab might be their most alluring aphrodisiac. More than any other sign, the Pig has virtually no enemies. The exception: those born under the sign of the Snake. 

Pigs will attempt to sidestep conflict at all costs, but if they do get unnerved or feel the threat from eminent danger, there is not a more dangerous sign. If their slow fuse ignites, run for the hills, because their wrath can be ultra-severe and everlasting, and they tend to destroy everything in their paths, including themselves.

Woman belonging to the sign of the Boar are towers of strength, especially toward their children and mates. Nancy Reagan and Hillary Clinton are two examples. 

Two pieces of advice for the dynamic Pig—and all signs should adhere to the same advice during the Pig year: When a Pig shouts, nobody listens, and Pigs should avoid the so-called halls of justice at all cost. It’s virtually impossible for Pigs to gain sympathy in a court of law or a court of life, so someone sitting in judgment may not feel compelled to act sympathetic toward their plea. It’s hard to pity a superstar.

To their credit, those born in the year of the Pig are able to arrange and rearrange situations in many arenas, putting their custom spin on things by making drastic changes to what are perceived to be set-in-stone methods. They reinvent the wheel with clever, innovative breakthroughs. Pure Pig power propels. The ranks of Pigs in history swells with firsts: Doctor Christian Bernard, who completed the first heart transplant; Alan Shepard, the first American in space; and track star and Olympian Richard Fosbury, who raised the bar and changed track-and-field’s high-jump event forever with his innovative Fosbury flop.

Pigs prefer a quiet life, surrounded by friends. They’re apt to become closer with friends than with family. We’re more than likely to find the Pig bonding with those who have large families.

Pigs are built more for comfort than for speed. Pigs prefer to run marathons and not sprint. Famous marothoners like Frank Shorter, Billy Rogers and Jim Ryan are examples. As for endurance and will, Lance Armstrong serves as a prime example. Their rank is filled with dynamos, yet there’s a list of hard-luck losers that can wring your heart.

The good life, exotic travel, sumptuous food and drink and other luxuries, including stunning partners, match their lust for life.

Madam Loo says that the best profession for a Pig might be to be king or queen, but they have to watch out that their subjects don’t get too tired of their song and send them off to the slaughterhouse.

Snippets of advice for other animal signs during Year of the Pig:

Rats: 1900-12-24-36-48-60-72-84-96—Expected fast gains might not pan out for Rats this year. Watch finances and stay close to family and make firm alliances.

Oxen: 1901-13-25-37-39-61-73-85-97—This is a year to plant seeds for future harvest. Pragmatic decisions are a must, especially those connected to the strings of the heart.

Tigers: 1902-24-26-38-50-62-74-86-98—Caution is a must in a year when spending money seems all the rage. Beware of deals too good to be true.

Rabbits: 1903-15-27-39-51-63-75-87-99—Don’t be fooled by sudden gains. They just might be temporary boons. Things should remain on the positive, but nevertheless problems can crop up.

Dragons: 1904-16-28-40-52-64-76-88-2000—A much better year for progress than the past Year of the Dog. Yet the Dragon has to extend a generous nature to maintain good business and strong personal relationships

Snakes: 1905-17-29-41-53-65-77-89-2001—Embrace the notion that there is safety in numbers. Past alliances may no longer be available. Unnecessary financial risks are a no-no. Close ranks.

Horses: 1906-18-30-42-54-66-78-90-2002—Take care of lingering problems rapido, whether they be of finance or health. The year could at first offer a rocky start, but if the Horse paces itself the Year of the Pig can turn positive.

Goats: 1907-19-31-43-55-67-79-91-2003—Happy days could be here again under the influence of the generous Pig. Newfound allies and opportunities are close, yet as always they have to be earned without entitlement.

Monkeys: 1908-20-32-44-56-68-80-92-2004—Watch out for misunderstandings with partners and associates. Issues can be clouded and lost because of emotions. Compromise!

Roosters: 1909-21-33-45-57-69-81-93-2005—One of the few years the Rooster loses its thrifty ways and overspends or has illusions about expectations, whether they be in business or affairs of the heart. Just to be safe, cut all estimated gains in half.

Dogs: 1910-22-34-36-58-70-82-94-2006—The Dog should continue to enjoy gains still bubbling over from the previous year. 

Finally: Chinese astrologers are often asked about romance between signs. There are good and bad matches, but Madam Loo refrains from making any love analysis because in that view it is a sin to assassinate the possibiliteis for romance between any of the signs. Opposites often attract and stick.

Pigs of note: Woody Allen, Julie Andrews, Fred Astaire, Jane Austen, Lucille Ball, Dave Barry, Bismark, Humphry Bogart, Marc Chagall, James Cagney, Paddy Chayefsky, Lou Christine, Tom Clancy, Cleopatra, Oliver Cromwell, George Custer, James Dickey, Marcel Duchamp, Duke Ellington, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Edna Ferber, Henry Ford, William Golding, Dexter Gordon, Jeff Gordon, William Randolph Hearst, Joseph Heller, Ernest Hemingway, Henry VIII, Miguel Hidalgo, Conrad Hilton, Alfred Hitchcock, King Huissein, Mahalia Jackson, Elton John, Magic Johnson, Carl Jung, Stephen King, Sandy Koufax, Jerry Lee Lewis, David Letterman, Charles Laughton, David Mamet, Marcel Marceau, Rocky Marciano, Marie Antoinette, Vladamir Nobokov, Georgia O’Keefe, Luciano Pavarotti, Jackson Pollock, Tito Puente, Ronald Reagan, Lee Remick, John D. Rockefeller, Will Rogers, Nolan Ryan, Francoise Sagan, Pete Sampras, Carlos Santana, Telly Savalis, Steven Spielberg, Danielle Steele, Irving Thalberg, Emma Thompson, Diego Valázquez, E.B. White, Hank Williams and Tennessee Williams.


When writing about Chinese Astrology, local writer Lou Christine uses the pen name Madam Loo. Christine, a Pig himself, has been studying Chinese astrology for over 25 years. 








Letters, Feb 16, 2007

Send your letters to the editor to letters@atencionsanmiguel.org  Atención will not publish offensive or defamatory material.

Editor,

I read with great disappointment the letter written by George Sickler regarding the recent San Miguel Chili Cook-Off. While I certainly understand the disappointment of not being able to taste some of the best chili dishes made anywhere, I felt it unfair to paint the event as a “mega rip-off.” 

This entire event was created by volunteers who only wanted to lend their support to one of our local charities, the Centro de Crecimiento. Much time was spent by good-hearted, caring individuals in preparing and coordinating this fun and worthwhile event They didn’t do it for their own gain; rather, they threw their hearts into for the children who benefited. I had the opportunity to speak with the director of the Centro while there and she was very moved by the outpouring of support they were receiving. 

Now, what Mr. Sickler says about running out of chili early was true, but even that fails to mention possible causes. Several sponsors of booths were unable to attend, so there was an initial shortage as a result. In addition, the sponsors of the booths, many of whom brought more chili than was asked of them, may have doled out their chili a bit generously early on and found themselves short-handed. And who could have expected, considering the weather the preceding days and the fact that this was the first-ever chili-cook-off here, that over 500 people would attend? Certainly not the organizers, who gave their time and hard work so selflessly!

Give the organizers a break, please. This was their first attempt, and those who attended may have left a little bit hungry, but they understood that this was not about a cheap meal, but a way to support a good cause with a lot of other nice people. I can’t wait for next year’s event!

David Brucia

Editor,

After reading the letter from George Sickler in the February 2 Atención, I attest to the accuracy of his observations, though I would couch them in less-harsh tones. Since the January 28 San Miguel Chili Cook-off was billed as noon-to-6pm, I too was disappointed to arrive less than halfway through the event only to find it all but over; no chili left, no margaritas.

The event organizers should not be faulted for underestimating the generosity of San Miguel's expatriate community, but they badly mismanaged the result of the unanticipated turnout. Mr. Sickler correctly points out that none of the event organizers stepped forward with any form of apology, just “All gone!”

Had they done the right thing, organizers would have manned the gate right up until 6pm to explain the situation and offer refunds to those ticket holders who were unfortunately deprived of enjoying the event. Most people, like me, would have also done the right thing and donated the $50 ticket price to Centro de Crecimiento, knowing the money was going to a worthy cause. I imagine Mr. Sickler would have willingly donated his $50 had someone only treated him with proper courtesy.

I hope that the organizers of the San Miguel Chili Cook-off will continue their commendable efforts on behalf of Centro de Crecimiento, and that they will also learn to treat their patrons with more consideration than was shown this time around.

Charles Baxter Miller

Editor,


Evidence showing how our town is changing with the influx of a new breed came through loud and clear in George Sickler's letter to the editor in your February 2 edition. Sickler moaned aloud, and with no shame, that there was no chili left for him to sample at the first annual Chili Cook-Off, a charity event for Centro de Crecimiento to help out severely disabled children.

Whiners like Sickler put a damper on the best of intentions. 

Number one: No one could have predicted, including the sponsors, that the event would be an overwhelming success with a huge turnout. From my view, it was a great day with lots of great chili and terrific participation showcased by our expatriate community. Many locals and expatriates generously gave their time and efforts to make it such, and my fedora is off to them.

Plenty of chili was available from noon until almost 3pm. 

The fact is, the chili was so good that people just ate it up. How do you argue with success? I am sure the sponsors will be better prepared next year.

Then for Sickler to complain that available hot dogs were being sold for a whopping 20 pesos read as downright silly. Nobody put any money in their own pockets. Also, his claim that door prize raffle tickets were sold is only partly true. Many of the prizes were awarded from numbers on all-admission tickets, including Sickler’s. Other tickets were sold for additional prizes and many good-hearted merchants and artists offered a slew of prizes with no need to purchase other raffle tickets. Scores of nifty items were given away as door prizes. With such audacity, why didn’t Sickler just ask for his donation back rather than trying to demean the worthwhile event in Atención? His fat, 50-peso donation was for a great cause.

The glaring difference between some newcomers and those who appreciate the spirit of our town is that these days we are coexisting with more and more complainers. Our town has always embraced newcomers, yet Sickler might be part of an element who shouldn't have moved down here in the first place.

Our expatriate community is, and has always been, generous and robust. We know many of us stem from a society that has been blessed and we stand on the shoulders of expatriate pioneers before us trying their best to both emulate and maintain that helping-hand spirit to share with the less fortunate. Most today, including those from the past, would have been thrilled an expatriate, charitable event was a success, not worrying so much about their own bellies. Too bad people like Sickler can’t see those aspects of charity rather than writing a cry-baby letter.

Lou Christine

Editor,

The following letter appeared in The New Yorker, January 29, 2007, responding to an article about “the fear that New York is becoming less like New York”:


“I’m not alone in my feeling that the New York I have always loved is inexorably slipping away and, indeed, may already be gone. I came to this city nearly thirty years ago to be where all things possible emerged from all things mixed. The city is so much less interesting now that Fendi trumps literature on every corner of Bleeker Street; eyes don’t meet for being buried in e-mail. And the only artists you’re likely to meet are visiting from Europe, guidebook in hand, looking for where it all began. New York has become a memory…”

Sound familiar?

Eli Nadel





Editor,

We are new to your beautiful city, arriving in San Miguel de Allende from Illinois on Thursday, January 4, to stay a month. We are staying in a beautiful house in the Los Balcones area and the view is breathtaking—especially the sunsets and city lights at night. The second evening, on my way out to our balcony to enjoy my first sunset, I missed the two steps down into the balcony. I landed on my left ankle, twisting it badly, and my right leg bent underneath me and came down hard on the edge of the second step, causing a very large hematoma and contusion on the leg just below the kneecap. We knew we had a big problem since I could not bear weight on either leg to get up. My left ankle and right leg swelled and turned black and blue immediately, and we thought that I had broken both legs. We were panicking because we didn’t know who to call and what to do. One of the big problems was that neither my husband nor I can speak or understand Spanish—how were we going to call an ambulance, get to a hospital, or even 
communicate with the medical people once we got there? Thankfully, we thought to call San Miguel Management Company, the company that manages the house where we are staying. Within 15 minutes, Peggy Blocker arrived at our door. She quickly took control, assessed my injuries and was definite in her opinion that I should get to the emergency room by ambulance. Peggy called the hospital and was advised to call the Red Cross. Within 10 minutes, the Red Cross arrived at our door, with an ambulance, and I was quickly assessed and transported to Hospital de la Fe. 

We want to thank the Red Cross and these individuals: Ángel Zoher Ramírez, Roberto Espinoza and Juan José Cortez. They promptly arrived to my aid and were so kind, knowledgeable, quick to assess the situation and get me on my way to the hospital. They stayed at the hospital to make sure I was okay before leaving. I have been recuperating for more than three weeks and the cast is now off. I am now hobbling around with a cane and am ecstatic about my mobility. We are leaving for Illinois and back home on February 1, but will definitely be back to visit San Miguel. This is truly a wonderful city—with wonderful people and excellent medical care. 

Again, many thanks to the Red Cross workers mentioned above, to the staff and Dr. Barajas at Hospital de la Fe, and to Peggy Blocker at San Miguel Management Company. This clumsy US gal was well taken care of, and I understand that I am now an official member of “The Fallen Women of San Miguel Club”! 

Krista Shaw