Enter The Rabbit:

With the passing of the Chinese New Year festivities, we usher in The Year of the Rabbit or 今年兔 (jīn nián tù) in 2011. The Rabbit (兔子 or tù zi) is the fourth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. After 12 years of waiting, the elusive rabbit has emerged from his burrow and ascended the thrown as China’s top rodent. As a result, everyone in China is embracing these cuddly little guys, especially amidst the revelries of Spring Festival. It’s odd–in western culture, only rabbit’s feet are lucky. In chinese culture, the entire rabbit is.

These furry little guys are usually considered comical in Chinese culture and are referred to as an insult in chinese slang. For example If you call someone a 小兔崽子 (xiǎotùzǎizi) you are calling them a “son of a rabbit”, which is similar to the english equivalent involving a female dog.

But that is all changing now that the year of the rabbit is upon us. People are embracing these cuddly little fur balls and bunny ears are everywhere. After all, who doesn’t like bunnies?

If you happen to be born during the year of the rabbit, the Chinese believe you will be constituted certain mannerisms and fortunes. See if you are embracing your inner rabbit.

Rabbit Characteristics/Personality (个性 gè xìng):

The Rabbit symbolizes graciousness, good manners, sound counsel, kindness and sensitivity to beauty. A rabbit is also characterized as being very creative and artistic. Because a rabbit can always pop up with a suitable proposal or alternative to benefit himself, a rabbit can adapt to meet new situations.

He/she is extremely lucky in business and monetary transactions, as well, and quite astute at striking bargains.A rabbit also posseses sharp business acumen, coupled with his knack for negotiation. Chinese people like this because they feel that the luck of the rabbit will ensure him a fast rise in any career.

The Rabbit usually has impeccable manners. He/She seldom uses harsh words and will never resort to foul language or vulgarisms to bring home a point.

Simply put, the rabbit is the epitomization of Bugs Bunny–crafty, clever and always the life of the party. Get your hop on!