TOUCHING BASE WITH THOSE WHO TOUCHED YOUR LIFE




“When the roots are deep,

there is no need to fear the wind.”

Chinese Proverb

 

A dear friend of mine holds an important position in a global company. He is currently posted in Vietnam. Yesterday, I received a call from him, saying, that he’s on a holiday in India (Mumbai) and wished to meet me. During the conversation, I learnt a great deal about the Chinese New Year – its long tradition and significance... How it’s celebrated, not only in Main China, but in various South Asian countries, and, even, in many other parts of the world.

In every culture, there is this concept called ‘New Year’... and, the idea of ‘coming home’ to celebrate has been rooted deep in the psyche of these cultures. Our own (Catholic) Feast of Nativity (Sept 8, which is celebrated as Mother Mary’s birthday), Onam, Pongal, Yugadi, Vishu, Baisakhi, Chaath Puja – to mention a few – are the occasions to come home to celebrate the roots...

My friend described to me how, during the Chinese New Year celebrations, it’s a highly-cherished tradition to visit one’s family (mainly parents), relatives, friends, neighbours, and business acquaintances. “Meeting your parents and family precedes everything else,” my friend pointed...

Though my friend did not tell me this, I realized the significance of my friend’s call. We will be meting shortly – yes, as part of the ongoing celebrations of the Chinese New year...



“Sir, I feel sad, that my son hasn’t called you yet, despite my frequent reminders,” wrote the mother of this young (recently-married) man. He and his younger brother were my students some years ago. The mother had hard times to get them educated. And, by God’s grace, their entire family got a chance to migrate to the US, where they have now settled. The mother still works there, and is in regular touch with me... The children – young men now - are not. “I do not know, when they will learn this Value,” the mother expressed her angst, today.

I calmed the mother down: “Ma’am, please do not worry about it. Trust me, they will realize its importance sooner or later... Life is all about ‘Coming Home’... Remember the story of the Prodigal Son?”

The Chinese New Year is here to remind all of us, that it’s okay to lose our way, for some time, in life. But, you see, seasons change... hearts change... and, each one of us, eventually, comes home... to touch base with those who have touched our lives...

Therefore, let’s light the lanterns... Let’s cook for more, today.

 




GERALD D’CUNHA

 

Pic’s: 1. Duong Nhan  2. Hong Son

Video: Singtel

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