We’re not celebrating the Chinese New Year this year, given Mama’s recent passing. I don’t think we would have been in the mood, even if it was the ‘done’ thing to celebrate after a death.
Mama was the person we consulted on cultural matters – how many oranges to give to uncles and aunts, how a distant relative should be addressed, the best recipe for [insert food name here]. I’m still finding it hard to believe she’s gone.
That said, it’s still good to reflect on the fact that this is a new year, and that life goes on. (I do like the fact that I get two goes at starting a new year, every year!)
4 Comments
I am so sorry to have read about your loss.
As with everything in life, this too shall pass.
Best Wishes to you and your family.
I still find it difficult to believe she is gone.
Hey CW… those times now – when you have questions – then turn to ask the person best equipped with the knowledge for answering them, only to find them missing… well – they’re going to be stumbling blocks for sure.
In my family I’m the one who wants those answers… and not so much for the actual answer as such, but for the story itself – as it’s the vehicle used for giving us the answers in the first place.
I miss those stories CW… I don’t know if this is the same for you exactly – but if it is… I feel for you. I don’t know if this thought helps (or if it scare you silly), but new ‘carriers’ of your culture were ‘born’ on the day your Mama left you – I’m guessing that may very well be you and your siblings. These things need to live on – as I believe firmly that culture is a living, breathing thing… just passed on.
It’s not the same I know… I can’t possible carry all my mob’s culture around in my head, I’ve never had the pleasure of being able to receive it all (sadly), but I try to carry the little I know, well at least.
Take care CW
😉
Thank you Gucci Muse.
jl, it’s very weird when you realise it, isn’t it?
Thanks Belongum. I think you’re right – we will be the ones who will observe what traditions we know, and pass it on, as I’m sure you do. If you look at it that way, culture never fully dies – it just changes and keeps changing.