It’s February 1 – that much closer to my birthday – and that much closer to turning 40 (in 2012).
I was talking to my great friend, last week, as we discussed her birthday plans for that night (January 25).
We laughed about meeting nine years ago and how I first discovered we were both Aquarians – when I found her wallet in the parking lot at work. We sighed and then chuckled about how our 30s are quickly coming to an end. Then we got serious – serious about how we were rejecting the new zodiac line-up. We’re still Aquarians, ‘nuff said.
I do not think my identity or personality has all of a sudden changed due this recent development, but I do enjoy reading my horoscope and looking at the information about Aquarians because 1) it’s fun, 2) my own mother has been talking about astrology (and numerology) since I was born, and 3) sometimes that stuff is just too close to home to not believe some of it.
My mother-in-law takes time in between doing Sudoku, reading Dear Abby, and making breakfast for the three-year-old to check out her horoscope.
She also does a quick scan of all our horoscopes. If anyone in our multigenerational family has three or more horoscope stars, my mother-in-law will be sure to circle the horoscope or cut it out to share with us.
Back to my friend and me…
As we giggled about the new iffy-ness of the zodiac and our astrological signs, I suggested we turn our attention to the Chinese zodiac. There doesn’t seem to be any confusion there and hey, I’m happy to expand my perspective.
***
As I read about the Chinese New Year, I learned 2011 is the Year of the Rabbit, which is a lucky sign. The Rabbit year offers us a space to calm our nerves and catch our breath. It’s a year to focus on relationships, home, family, and security. A potential goal, during the year of the Rabbit, is to cultivate a peaceful lifestyle.
How perfect for this multigenerational family!
I had to employ some nerve-calming techniques while I was doing my Chinese New Year research. I was in the process of identifying the Chinese zodiac animal for everyone in my nest, and I wanted to check my accuracy in regards to my mother-in-law’s birth year.
I texted her – and here’s how it went:
Kanesha: What year were you born?
MIL: Y?
Kanesha: Dang! I was trying to figure out your Chinese New Year animal. Never mind, I’ll just do the math.
MIL: Dog. Y?
Hmmm… I don’t know what that exchange was about, but I recognize we all have our moments – and cleary we both were having one at the same time.
I didn’t read too much into it, after all, this is the year of Rabbit. This is a year for me to practice my diplomacy and compassion.
I better get on it.
What are your plans for the Chinese New Year?
I couldn’t wait to read this article as soon as I saw the title! I love that the year of the rabbit can be a time to focus on family, security and a “peaceful lifestyle.” Totally stuff I’m after!
My husband is half-Chinese, so we are going out to a big dim sum with friends this weekend. I was thinking it might also be nice to try to make him moon cakes.
Yes, Sarah, I’m really working on folding peace into every aspect of my life.
Your weekend plans sound fun.
My mother-in-law were chatting about new recipes we may try this weekend – for the Chinese New Year.
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