Happy Year of the Rabbit 2011

Gung Hay Fat Choy! Happy Chinese New Year 2011!! The Year of the Rabbit begins tomorrow on February 3, 2011 and ends on January 22, 2012.

Anyone born in 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999 or 2011 is born under the sign of the Rabbit.

As many of you who have already read our international thriller, Rabbit in the Moon by Deborah and Joel Shlian know, the Rabbit, or Hare as it is referred to in Chinese mythology is the symbol of longevity. It is the 4th of the 12 animal signs of the Chinese Zodiac. And is said to derive its essence from the Moon

In our novel, Dr. Lili Quan’s mother was born under this sign and was typical of such individuals – reserved and introverted.  But she was also a friendly person who liked the company of good friends.

Good news for a troubled world: according to Chinese tradition, the Rabbit heralds a year in which you should take a deep breath, and calmly approach problems that arise with the goal of creating a safe, peaceful life.  Trying to force issues will only bring failure. Negotiation is a much more effective approach to problem solving. This is a year to focus on home and family.

As a symbol of the Moon, the Rabbit represents the Yin, while the Peacock, symbol of the Sun, represents the Yang of life. In the Year of the Rabbit, the wish-granting aspect of the Sun and the Moon combined is extremely strong.  It is said that on each of the full moon nights during this year, if you go into your garden to gaze into the full moon, visualize plenty of moon energy flowing into you and you will strengthen your inner energy (Chi). Not only will be granted fearlessness, love and courage but this will also bring wisdom into your life.

We wish that and more for all of you this year!!