I haven’t forgotten that it’s not January 1st, even though I did previously proclaim I wanted to slow down the year of 2011, rather watching it zip by as in 2010. I think it’s going to be a great year and I want to savor every minute!
I’m just happy to have an excuse to think of another new beginning. We’ve literally stepped into February, so it’s the start of a new month and today is the start of the Chinese New Year!
2011 is the Year of The Rabbit!
Rabbit years are supposed to be calmer and more serene. They are a respite from the previous Year of the Tiger and the upcoming roller coaster Year of the Dragon. I kind of imagine it as the year of happily hopping along!
According to USA Today writer, Rhonda Adams, The Year of the Rabbit should allow us to expect it to be good year for:
Creative and artistic. This is a good year for developing new products or new marketing campaigns, redesigning your logo or store. Use your imagination! (How ironic, I’m in the process of that, right now!)
Calm. Rabbit years are traditionally more peaceful years. This means fewer things are likely to faze you, so you should approach problems with equanimity, expecting that you'll be able to handle them successfully. (Since I always ponder how to do everything better, this should help move decisions forward, faster.)
Luck. Here's good news: Rabbit years are traditionally quite lucky years. (No matter how much luck we may already have, an added bonus is always welcome!)
Some other fun factoids:
Paint it red. This color is thought to promote a welcoming energy. It also is a symbol of good luck and happiness. The Chinese will often put a fresh coat of red paint on their doors and windows to bring both into the New Year.
Clean out the old. The Chinese believe this is a great time to get rid of anything not useful or things which may be in disrepair. The idea is that it opens up for the possibility of good fortune to arrive. Hanging onto these things are thought to bog you down and stop the flow of good energy. (If you missed getting on board with your January organization, here’s your “do-over”.)
Gifts of money are placed in red envelopes. They are exchanged in the morning, amongst family members. (I found some special ones, on Etsy, decorated with cherry blossoms. Wouldn’t they be lovely keepsakes, showcased in a shadow box?)
Firecrackers are set off to scare away evil spirits and misfortunes at the beginning of the New Year. The noise is also intended to wake up the sleeping dragon to bring rain to crops in the summer. (It might wake up some sleeping neighbors, too, and your wish just might be fulfilled if they opt to turn the water hose on you!)
Gung hay fat choy, y’all! –
To great beginnings . . . again! ~ Wanda
