Your Chinese Horoscope 2011. Neil Somerville

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       WELCOME TO THE YEAR OF THE RABBIT

      Whether nibbling the grass in a lush green meadow, living on a hillside or kept as a family pet, there is an air of contentment about the Rabbit. Little seems to trouble him and he just gets on with life in a quiet and peaceable manner. And while a lot can happen in a Rabbit year, it can touch the lives of all of us in a positive and inspiring way. This is a time which favours the family and encourages learning and personal growth as well as the commemoration of major events.

      Politically, Rabbit years are times of diplomacy and negotiation. In this one, in view of some of the tensions and warring going on, many of the world’s leaders will be examining ways forward, exploring options and trying to reach consensus. Over the year some carefully negotiated agreements will be forged which will not only bring peace to some troubled regions but also help in reducing carbon emissions, decommissioning weapons and tackling world economic issues. The year will see a succession of summits and, as a result, the strengthening of ties between world leaders and nations.

      Interestingly, previous Rabbit years have seen the formation of the Entente Cordiale between Britain and France, the establishment of a hotline between Moscow and Washington, the ending of the Vietnam War and, in 1987, the INF treaty between America and the Soviet Union being signed, which paved the way for the destruction of all land-based medium-and short-range missiles. It was in that same Rabbit year that Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev introduced glasnost, the policy of openness that was to transform life in the Soviet Union and later have a great impact on events in Eastern Europe. What happens in 2011 can be equally far-reaching.

      Economically, many countries will see slow but steady growth. To help, many governments will offer financial incentives to encourage investment and stimulate growth as well as reduce unemployment. Also, after the lessons of the banking crisis, tighter controls will be in force and the policy of many a fiscal body and government will be cautious encouragement. There will be gains to be had in many of the stock markets around the world, with some notable rallies. However, these may be followed by some sharp corrections and investors cannot afford to lower their guard during the year.

      Several industries are likely to fall under the spotlight this year, especially in the alternative energy sector. Much attention will be focused on finding new ways to harness the world’s resources, including new research projects and encouragement for wind farms, wave power and solar energy.

      The Rabbit year is also likely to be marked by some medical breakthroughs, not only in the treatment, even conquering of certain diseases, but also in their early diagnosis and prevention. The Rabbit year’s emphasis on research can lead to some momentous findings as well as the introduction of life-changing procedures. It was a previous Rabbit year that saw the first successful kidney transplant and the invention of the iron lung.

      Another feature of the Rabbit year is that it strongly favours culture, and some artists and performers will push the boundaries and create some extraordinary pieces. The year will also see some major touring exhibitions, which will allow more people to appreciate artwork and historic artefacts. In addition many countries will hold important festivities and celebrations during the year, both in commemorating achievements and promoting trade and industry. It was sixty years ago that the Festival of Britain was held in the UK, an event considered a landmark at the time.

      There will also be considerable focus over the year on education. Governments will be keen to increase funding to schools as well as provide grants and incentives for those entering further education or vocational training. In many countries there will also be measures to increase the number of apprenticeship and work placement schemes. Education and training will certainly be high on the agenda of many a government.

      With the year’s emphasis on personal development, many people will be giving some consideration to their lifestyle. Whether by attending to their well-being, taking up new interests or enrolling on a course or study programme, they will find the Rabbit year favours personal growth and the opportunities will be there – but they do need to be grasped.

      The Rabbit year also favours family values and quite a few people will be making sure that more quality time is spent with their loved ones. Here again this can be a year for personal reappraisal and as a result many will bring their lifestyle into better balance. Relationships, too, are favourably aspected and this can be a year for finding or renewing love and starting a family as well as appreciating loved ones.

      Overall, the Year of the Rabbit will be a full and interesting one. A lot will happen on the world stage and even though there will be dangers, tensions and tragic moments, there will also be reason for hope. It is a year for discussion, diplomacy and, importantly, personal growth. As George Eliot, born under the sign of the Rabbit, noted, ‘It’s them that take advantage that get advantage i’ this world.’

      To benefit in the Year of the Rabbit it is a case of taking advantage of opportunities, particularly to make more of yourself and your personal strengths. While some signs will fare better than others, the Rabbit year is a promising and encouraging one. Use it well and I wish you every success and good fortune.