Monday, February 06, 2006

Kung Hey Fat Choi!


We are lucky in Australia to have migrant communities that still maintain old traditions. The past few weeks have seen celebrations of the Lunar New Year - family feasting mandatory! We also visit temples to thank our ancestors for the year that has just passed and pray for a prosperous and happy year to follow.

And what is Lunar New Year without a dragon dance? The 'dai loong' is an esteemed sign in the Chinese zodiac and not only brings good luck, but chases away evil spirits to clear the slate for the new year. Think of the firecrackers that end dragon dances as a statement akin to: 'And Stay Out!' to any lurking evil spirits.
And the kids love it too.

So here's to the Year of the Dog, Kung Hey Fat Choi!