By Kay Lin
Happy Chinese New Year!
We have all heard of this yearly event but what does it actually represent? Chinese New Year is something that is close to my heart. As a Chinese coming from Singapore, me and my family celebrated this yearly event with so much joy and happiness and I hope to be able to share this with everyone.
Very much like Thanksgiving and Christmas, families gather around to celebrate the new year based on the Chinese calendar. Families go to the temple and pray for the new year ahead, as well as to read about each of our own zodiac signs and what blessings are ahead for us this year.
YEAR OF THE OX – Hard work and rewards
Based on the Chinese Zodiac, 2021 is the year of Ox. History and myths were believed that during the ancient story – “Heavenly Gate Race”, there was a race for which 12 animals are to be chosen as the guards for the heaven’s emperor. Each year was represented consecutively by which animal came in first to the last.
The ox, which came in second, was said to represent its hard work and earnest attitude. Hence, this year is going to be a time for us to get rewarded for our hard work and to appreciate it with humbleness and kindness.
FAMILY AND DISCIPLINE
Ox is seen as an animal that is very humble and earnest, one that brings peace and love to its family. This is a perfect year to focus on relationships with your family, to bring peace and love and also to cherish times together.
Discipline is a strong word, and it is perfect for this year. The ox is a hard worker hence it is the perfect time for you to put in the discipline and complete the goals you want to achieve for this year.
WHITE AND SILVER
The lucky colour and material for this year is white and silver. Based on the elements of earth, fire, water, wood and metal, 2021’s main element will be metal, hence the saying of the year of metal ox. So, go ahead and manifest on white and silver – you can incorporate white in your clothing or furnishings and wear silver accessories.
THE YEAR OF OX EDIT
FRUITS OF LABOUR
Whether you believe in the myths or not, you cannot deny the fruits of labour. Put in the hard work and discipline and you shall get rewarded by the sweetest fruits ever.
Though these myths might be made up, these blessings serve as a motivation to start the year right for many of us. I will work hard on my goals and I hope you will too and lastly, Happy Chinese New Year!
Kai Lin Tan
Kai Lin is a fashion and food content creator from the sunny island, Singapore. She is enthusiastic about creating digital spaces that can make a difference in the voice of sustainability.
