Ox

The Ox has been in a partnership with man for millennia. From the Eastern viewpoint, is a noble animal that is balanced and solid. Partnered with man through agriculture, and especially the plow,  is a creature mankind has long relied upon. Ox is the Second Year of the Twelve year cycle, being beaten out for top honors by Clever Rat. This animal doesn’t complain, understanding that true rewards come from hard work, diligence, and determination. As he will pull the plow slowly and steadily, hour after hour, he is known for consistency and steadfastness.

Ox people are the ones you can really rely on – no matter what. The Ox in your life is the person you can call at 2:00 a.m. while you are stuck out on the interstate with a broke car and know you’ll have a ride home. Steadfast and loyal these are people you can always depend on and know they will be there. Never the glory-grabber (remember, Ox allowed Rat the opportunity for first place), Ox people are the type that “do the daily grind” day after day, providing for their family and living their lives.

People born in the years of the Ox are not afraid of hard work endeavors. Occupations such as military officers, engineers, farmers, miners, archeologists, and quarry workers indicate the dedication and work ethic that is emblematic of Ox people. The steadfastness of the Ox personality also do well in such endeavors as academics, investment banking and brokering, and horticulture. Whether working the perfect job or holding in “something I’m doing now until I find something better,” you can depend on the Ox personality to continue to give a full day’s work for a full day’s pay. However, their rigidness and dislike for change coupled with their innate abilities may make them a little unsteady and disgruntled factor in situations wherein the Ox has to work as a part of a group.

Looking for a gift to give that lovely lady that was born in a year of the Ox? Try a light violet scarf, the color should be pleasing for her. Other ideas would be a CD of their favorite music (but make sure it is music they like or they could interpret that you just got something ‘cuz you had to), cookbooks, puzzle books or even kitchen gadgets will appeal to the Ox personality. If you’re looking for a good first date with a new Ox in your life, try a concert or visit a tour of sculpture in your local area. Domestic, Ox people enjoy the warmth of hearth and home. If you really want to get the attention of an Ox jade, emeralds, moss-agate, and lapis-lazuli are the glitteries sure to catch an Ox’s eye. Tending towards robust health and strength, people born within the Year of the Ox are sure to be a long term friends.