Today is Day 5 (初五 – chu1wu5) of the New Year. It is also written as 破五 (Pò Wǔ) which literally means ‘break five’, breaking taboos and welcoming the God of Wealth (财神, Cáishén). Traditionally, dumplings are eaten again, which is why auntie and uncle were so nice to make them for breakfast. (Their incredible hospitality and love for making delicious food is something I won’t get used to <3)
We discussed the significance of family in the Chinese culture.
There is a deeply ingrained belief that having children and preparing a good future for the next generation through good education and financial safety is the single most important thing you can give to the world as a human being. Chinese fear growing old alone without family and support.
Growing up in a more individual-centered Western culture, I always hated the idea that I am considered a retirement plan for my parents, to put it very bluntly.
I shared my view that in the West we consider good friends as our chosen family as well.
You can be an auntie or godfather to your friend’s children, and families don’t need to exist on their own, but parents love to have support from their social circle and continue their individual lives without sacrificing everything for their offsprings.
Well, it’s indeed a complex topic with too many layers to make any generalizations.
However, I do appreciate how devoted Chinese people are to their families and children. Blood is thicker than water is taken very seriously, even if from a Western perspective some harsh education styles may be viewed skeptisicm.
The past is past and today you work towards a brighter future.
(Someday, I would love to contemplate this more through the lens of unprocessed generational trauma and the Law of Manifestation.)
BeiNing Park (北宁公园)
It is a sunny day. Since days lakes are frozen due to temperatures below 0 as well as a low humidity. In summer, this park is full water lilies and colorful flowers and fruits hanging on the trees. Now in deep winter, nature is resting, revealing a different kind of beauty.
During the New Year holidays, other parks are fully decorated with lanterns and lights, and packed with entertainment, snack stands and people.
In a city of 23 mio. inhabitants, a winter walk through BeiNing Park felt like a quiet refuge and peaceful retreat.
Hotpot 火锅
Dating back to the Han dynasty, bronze fire pots have been used for this traditional culinary experience. The design allows for an even heat distribution with a chimney in the middle, filled with hot coals. A lid on top regulates the air flow, thus the temperature of the broth.
