Rule of the cosmos changes hands on the 3rd February 2011 when the tempestuous Tiger passes the baton to the refined Rabbit.
Artistic, diplomatic and lover of luxury, the Rabbit influence is likely to encourage positive changes that improve upon current living conditions. The Rabbit nurtures but at a distance; circumstances may arise that provide opportunities to better your state of affairs, but only if you are prepared to work hard. This time it is the Rabbit dangling the carrot; it is up to you to decide whether the prize is worth the chase.
In Chinese Folklore, the image of the Rabbit was imprinted on the moon by the deity Sakra, the ruler of the Trayastrimsa Heavens; when standing before Sakra, the Rabbit had nothing to give as an offering so he jumped into a raging fire offering himself up as food. This Rabbit virtue will fall upon all in 2011 and altruistic activities will see a rise in contributions. It is the year of selflessness and frequent little kindnesses that usually starts a snowball effect of positive energy.
After the ego serving year of the Tiger, the humility and lightness of the Rabbit comes as a relief. The perspective shifts from a self-focus to a group-focus. The Rabbit understands the human condition in a visceral way and when in the position of power likes to see that as many human needs are met as possible. People become more sociable, they laugh more, they recognise their own simple desires and commit to meeting them. Being one of the most romantic signs, the ground is exceptionally fertile for relationships to flourish and encourages all manner of sensual activities.
Traditionally, Rabbit years are seen as domestically oriented, peaceful and somewhat indulgent. But the Rabbit is also one of the most intelligent signs and will not retire without leaving his mark in the artistic, business and political realms. Significant changes take place. Tactful persuasion works better than brute force and if you act unjustly, expect a speedy karmic response.
The Rat year 2008, offered the vision, the Ox year 2009, provided intense labour to lay the foundations, the Tiger year 2010 was the year to market the product and the Rabbit year 2011 is the time to use the available intelligence to make any adjustments to increase profitability. It is also wise to get some rest and recuperation in before 2012, the eventful year of the Dragon.
The Chinese look forward to Rabbit years as they are seen as lucky. It is a mild sign in many respects but not when it comes to the emotions. Moments of high tension are usually equalled by moments of wild ecstasy. Also, there may be an increased general tendency to create a mountain out of a molehill.
The Rabbit loves to love and responds well to affectionate gestures. As long as you infuse everything you do with heart, have the best of intentions and strive to better yourself, this graceful creature will see to it that you succeed. 2011 is the year of the Rabbit.