Gong Xi Fa Cai!

If i didn't know any better, today might have been Christmas or Hari Raya for all it matters. Why? Just like Christmas, the spirit of Chinese New Year seems to be evading me. Only thing that differenciates this holiday from the others is the fact that most shops are closed except for Golden Villages and 7-Elevens! Even the angbao receiving seem such a formality rather than customary. One instant today however, reminded me just what it's all about. We were going into the lift and there was this family whom we have never seen before. Then my mum suddenly turns around and started wishing everyone Happy New Year! Now that is what i call the spirit of Chinese New Year! Not the somewhat "forced" visiting these days or the angbaos or the closed shops. But these instances are getting fewer by the year. It's sad that even though we live in a culture which teaches us to embrace "the important things" in life and most of us choose our career and money over our relationships and traditions. Idealist? Maybe, but i've always been a staunch believer in the "less important things" so.. Happy New Year to all, Gong Xi Fa Cai and may everyone be well throughout this coming year! CHEERS!