Being a rabbit

People born in the Year of the Rabbit share certain characteristics: Keen, wise, fragile, tranquil, serene, considerate, fashionable, and kind. Generally, they are quite calm, do not exhibit aggressive behavior, and will avoid confrontation at all costs. When angry about something, they will approach it calmly and considerately, hardly ever raising their voice. And they are quite keen and pay close attention to the situations developing around them. They are intelligent and quick, and can talk themselves in or out of most situations with no problem.

The Rabbit is a symbol for mercy, elegance, and worship of beauty. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are kind, loving persons, and dislike any hostile act. They give others an impression of being frail-looking because of their gentle appearance. But, in fact they are strong-minded and have strong wills. They pursue their ideals all their lives in a precise and orderly way. They do things slowly and deliberately because of their cautious characters.

There is no need to worry about their lives. They are nimble, clever and good at avoiding harm to themselves. They are talented and like artistic ventures, such as painting and music and are generally quite present in these worlds. They are also very hospitable, good hosts and warm-hearted companions. They never embrace others in public places. They know the art of saving face and giving consideration to the interests of both sides.

People born in the Year of the Rabbit are apt to be sensitive to ailments and to have bad allergies. Stress or conflict will detriment their health. Exercise could take off unnecessary stress and strengthen their physical condition. They have to learn to incorporate more action into their everyday routines.

They will become depressed and withdrawn if their homes do not consist of beautiful possessions that make them comfortable. Their homes and offices usually are clutter-free. They have really good communication skills and are best utilized in positions of management. They make great teachers and counselors because they are so diplomatic and well-organized. They can also make great painters or musicians due to their sense of beauty and their love of creativity.

Rabbit people are usually relatively careful when it comes to their finances. They use much of their money for possessions such as their homes, cars or furniture. They love hunting for antiques, arts and crafts and will tend to make sound investments in these types of things.

from here via nonchalant mom

Yes, 2011 is a Year of the Rabbit. And yes, I am a Rabbit. And yes, this description is for the most part me, almost exactly.

Reading this on one of my favorite blogs several weeks ago, I was profoundly moved at the synchronicities not only of this description but of the rest of the description of what the Year of the Rabbit represents.

It is a year for catching one's breath, realigning with one's values and creating a lifestyle that is calm and peaceful. I have sensed this deep need in myself, to simplify, to prioritize, to focus and to find my breath again. I have not been able to stop thinking about what it means to be a Rabbit in a Rabbit year.

For now, I am treading slowly and calmly, trying to heal that which needs to be healed and give attention to that what needs attention. I am aware of my home space and how I might be able to make a few adjustments so that it feels more aligned with me. But mostly, I am sensing that what I can do again is find my breath.

{image found on etsy}