One of the perks of being Chinese is that you get to celebrate New Year twice annually. However in recent years, in midst of all the political persecutions happening in HK, I find it difficult expressing joy during festive days when I know so many people are imprisoned unjustly and are separated from their families and friends.
LNY is the biggest celebration in Chinese traditions each year. We are supposed to greet family and friends joyfully and wishing everyone good health and wealth for the year to come. I find it especially tough to be in HK during this time. I’m no good in pretending to be happy and greet people unanimously everyday during the long holidays. In that respect, I feel much more comfortable to be alone in Canada where LNY celebrations are much toned down and I can genuinely be myself and not be caught up by the many Chinese traditions.
Aside from the LNY celebration I was invited to from my church, many of my friends decided to meet up in February. It was good to see and catch up with friends without being tied down to the many traditions. Now I feel ready for a fresh start in Canada for the second year of returning, may God continue to bless my journey ahead.
