2023 The Year of the Rabbit (Cat)

 Okay, folks, it’s that time again. I like to look at it as “Do-overs Time.”  What I didn’t get done right last year, I get another chance at.  And, I like to attempt to be more like the animal of the year.  According to the Chinese zodiac, it’s the Year of the Rabbit (for the Vietnamese, the Gurung [an ethnic group in Nepal], and for cat lovers, of course, it is the Year of the Cat).  Celebrations begin this year with the new moon on January 22 and end Feb 1.

 Last year was the year of the Tiger — sleek and powerful. Easy to attempt those characteristics.  So, for the Rabbit, the characteristics are said to be vigilant, witty, quick-minded, and ingenious.  Somewhat harder to emulate, I’d say.  I think I’ll go with the Cat.  Self-reliant, quick, witty, and prone to sitting in sunny spots and, apparently, thinking about nothing.  Some folks would call that meditation.

 It is also the time we all make resolutions.  My resolution this year is to understand the difference between making the resolution and committing to doing it.  I have to admit to moving some of last year’s ‘resolves’ to the 2023 LIST OF RESOLUTIONS, or should I say, COMMITMENTS.

 It is predicted that 2023 The Year of the Rabbit (or Cat) will be one of peace, prosperity, longevity and hope.  The Florence Merchants and I wish these for everyone.  I would add that some shared traits of the rabbit and the cat* are that they are lovable, cuddly, and soft.  We could all practice more of that.

 *Cats are also good hunters.  The Florence Merchants also wish you good hunting in 2023.  You all know you can find what you are hunting for in Florence.