The Chinese astrological cycle
begins with the year of the Rat; consequently those born within this category
like to be first, pioneers, at the forefront of the action. Because of this,
they tend to see themselves as a cut above the others. Restless and
inquisitive, those born under the influence of the Rat are active, both
physically and mentally, and tend to lead busy lives. Challenge is
essential to them for they love the thrill of living dangerously,
adapting easily to different environments and surviving against all odds. With
clairvoyance, intuition, perspicacity and an eye for detail, Rats are
formidable problem solvers, finding workable solutions to the knottiest
problems. Travelling is one of their favorite pastimes. They have a natural
talent for the arts, specifically writing.
The Rat possesses attributes
ranging from charming and humorous to honest and meticulous. The Chinese say
those born in these years make good and wise advisors, yet they can never
decide for themselves and change direction constantly. However, Rats at
times hunger for power and money, leading some to be gamblers and others to
be manipulative or petty. Their greed can lead them into a destructive trap.
They should avoid the negative traits of being sly, secretive, critical and judgmental
of others. Another problem is that they can worry and fret endlessly, especially
about their health, which creates internal stress. To combat this, Rats need space
and understanding, love and companionship.
Rats are best known for their
charm and intelligence, which often wins admiration wherever they go. Blessed with a
sharp wit, they possess a marvelous sense of humor,
which makes them stimulating and amusing company to have around. Generally
extroverted, they may well be described as opportunists for they prefer to
live off their wits rather than labor long and hard to earn their daily
bread.
The Rat has a great appetite and appreciates fine cuisine, loving
all types of good food, fine wines, baked goods and gourmet meals. Although he may not be patient enough to prepare
these great meals himself, he does enjoy dining at all the latest restaurants.
Rats should have a happy
childhood and a carefree youth. However, the second part of their lives may be
stormy and problematical. They may be prone to lose money in a bad
business deal or their happiness in an unfortunate love affair. The third
part of their lives will be comfortable, and their old age as peaceful as
could be wished.
It is important to note whether
the Rat was born in the summer or the winter of the year. In summer the lofts
and granaries are full, but in winter the Rat will be obliged to go out and
forage for food, and must watch out for the traps set along the way. In
human terms, this could mean the risk of prison or an accidental death.The Passionate Rat
Rats are able to control their
feelings and will generally present a cool facade to the outside world,
regardless of whatever volcanic emotions they may be feeling inside. But
these are passionate creatures whose feelings can be deeply stirred and
though able to control them as a rule, when the volcano does erupt, watch out!
Perhaps one of their faults is their inability to actually talk about their
feelings to those they love, and consequently they tend to repress them --
thus adding to the volcanic pressure. As well as being deeply passionate
they are sensual creatures who simply exude sexuality and who greatly enjoy
all forms of physical stimulation.
Rats' romantic life is very
quiet, provided that they take care not to interact with the
Horse or
Rooster. In particular, it is
catastrophic for a male Rat to marry a female
Fire Horse. They should be
wary of those born in the Year of the Tiger; although a light social bond may be
enjoyable, a deeper relationship may prove problematic.
Rats have excellent relationships and much happiness with the Dragon,
Monkey and Ox born.
January is the month of the
Rat. The time of the Rat is from 11:00 p.m. to 12:59 a.m.; their direction
of orientation is the north. The Rat's color is light blue.
Click here to see:
Rat Astrology Box, celadon crackleglaze
Rat Astrology Box, chocolate glaze
