People say one only cherishes after losing. I find this especially true when, in my case, missing out 2 years of cultural festivals and events, and one of which is Chinese New Year. Despite the fact that my family isn't a typical and traditional Chinese family that follows every practice of the New Year ritual, I miss the festive atmosphere that masks over the city during that time of the year, the decorations and foods people are preparing, and the hint of excitement and happiness from people.
For me Chinese New Year used to be, of course, about getting red packets from the elder family members, and as I am the youngest in my extended family I am very lucky to always be given the most number of money-filled envelopes. But as I grew up and when I've been missing out family gatherings for two years, the festival now means reunion for me. However, it seems to me that the meaning of this special event has changed gradually over the years, and even feels a bit unfamiliar. Before coming back I was trying to explain and translate the CNY greetings to my friends, which turns out to be mainly money-orientated. Like "Kung Hei Fat Choi" literally translates into "congrats on earning a lot", and "Fa Hoi Fu Guai" means "blooming prosperity" – the concept of "wealth" is more fundamental in the festival and is now reflected through people's way of celebration.
As long as I grew up in Hong Kong I have only ever visited the annual Lunar New Year Fair once, mainly because of the unpleasantness digging through the crowds and the stress of bewaring pickpockets. But as it is an unusual visit to home, I felt the need to re-establish my sense of belonging to the city by experiencing its notorious overcrowded scenario. And as I eagerly expected, the fair was flooded with locals and a few tourists. It is a strange feeling to realise the more I've stepped back, the more I can see how materialised the festival has become. For instance, there were stalls selling cheap toys and decorations, overpriced ready-to-eat food and flowers. Some people might only go there to, which is ironically like me, experience the "festive atmosphere", checking in for social media, or for most of them, just to purchase whatever were the cheapest and had the best deals. Strangely, as much as the festive atmosphere has become so alienated to me, I can still somewhat relate myself to the people, like getting excited and ready to welcome relatives to visit the well-decorated homes, while serving them quality sweets from the candy tray, and no matter how much it is going to cost.
After all, I am still glad to go back to my home sweet home.
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