A change is coming. And there may be some twists along the way.

The Chinese new year begins on February 10. And we enter the year of the Snake. Which is good news, sort of. Snakes are powerful icons of resilience and transformation. They are elegant, muscular, crafty and resourceful. They seem soft on the outside, but are incredibly tough on the inside. They can gracefully navigate any threats or take advantage of any opportunities. They can thrive in almost any situation. They are fiercely loyal to their friends. And, unlike most creatures, snakes can shed their skin and re-invent themselves almost effortlessly. All of which has some folks thinking that the Snake is the perfect animal to take us through 2013. It’s time to put the past behind us and get started on something new.

And the good news may get even better. The Chinese zodiac is divided into 12 successive “animal” years, but it is also concurrently divided into 5 successive “element” periods lasting 2 years. And we are in the middle of a Water period, which is often a time of positive change. Water periods are marked by huge advances in research and education. New discoveries, new initiatives, new achievements. Out with irrationality and suspicion, in with logic and progress. Perhaps after years of difficulties, a new and more productive tide may be rolling in.

But hold on there, zen-masters! (Insert ominous gong sound here.) The Snake is a Fire animal, completely at odds with Water, and that combination may create a violent mix of good and bad fortune. Some folks are thinking that before positive change can occur, some hell must be paid. As much as snakes are cunning, they are also quick to spot the treachery in others. And when they do, snakes are nothing if not merciless. Before the Snake can mark the beginning of a new era, it may have to shed its skin. And that may not be pleasant…

Rational progress or cold vengeance? Advancement or retribution? Welcome to the year of the Water Snake. Hope for the best, but you may want to be on your best behavior.