Monday, February 3, 2025

Red For Wealth!

 Well, you want to ask why Filipinos are celebrating Chinese New Year? And it’s not just about the firecrackers. “It’s a much deeper, richer story that is built into the very fabric of our culture.” To put it another way, consider a mouthwatering adobo it’s uniquely Filipino yet with Spanish and Chinese inflections. Chinese New Year is a little bit like that, a delicious mix of traditions.


It all dates back to centuries ago, when Chinese traders and settlers arrived in the Philippines. They carried not only their wares, but also their customs and beliefs. With time, these customs intertwined with our own, and what blossomed was a unique Filipino-Chinese culture that still thrives today. It’s not only about heritage, either many Filipinos even those with no direct Chinese ancestry, join in the festivities. Why? Because it's fun! And because it has become part of who we are.


Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year as some people refer to it, isn’t just a holiday it’s a feeling. That feeling of family reuniting, the comforting smell of tikoy the thrill of receiving ang pao or they call it  lucky money!. It is about wishing for good fortune and success in the coming year, dreams and aspirations we all hold, no matter the background.

It is true? It has gotten a little commercialized, red fills the malls, and business is certainly playing on the festive spirit. Yet for all the commercial trappings, the essence of the occasion — a time for family and friends, good food and good wishes —endures. It stands as a reminder, so based on with so many differences of cultures and beliefs, we are still able to rejoice together, a message of hope and renewal. So when you next come across a Filipino celebrating the Lunar New Year don’t just see firecrackers and red frilly lanterns, see a gorgeous amalgam of cultures, a testament to our common humanity forever reminding us of our own humanity and a whole lot of fun.

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