2021 is the Year of the Ox according to Chinese zodiac(中国生肖). In China you will find various ox figures made of gold, wood, plastic, paper, shell and stone on sale in stores and on streets to celebrate the return. .
Centuries ago, most people earned their living through farming. For example, the ox was used to help plow, cultivate (耕) and carry heavy goods. Besides, the ox has long had a significant place in Chinese culture. In the Classic of Poetry, the oldest existing collection of Chinese poetry, the animal was mentioned in nine out of the 305 pieces.
To this day, the phrase " the spirit of ox" still refers to controlling anything that may present itself as an obstacle(障碍，阻碍). When someone achieves a great achievement through hard work, people often use " niu" , meaning " awesome" , to describe him or her.
Oxen seldom bully (欺负) the weak or fear the strong. This is reflected in a couplet from a poem by Lu Xun (1881-1936), " Fierce-browed, I coolly defy a thousand pointing fingers; Head bowed, like a willing ox I serve the children" , which fully expresses the poet' s loyalty (忠诚) to the people.
So naturally, those who were born in the Year of the Ox are often expected to be hardworking, reliable and loyal. " They never seek to be the center of attention and do not look for praise," the website China Highlights noted.
A. They are loyal and work hard.
B. But why was the ox chosen to be one of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs?
C. They never like to be the center of attention and enjoy being praised.
D. The spirit is highly praised and many people follow it as their work rules.
E. Ancient Chinese poets and writers frequently described the ox in literature.
F. Those who were born in the Year of the Ox like to farm and carry heavy goods.
G. The ox is considered a symbol of diligence and earnestness (认真) in Chinese culture.
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