New Year's Luck

Many Filipinos follow different Chinese beliefs in welcoming the New Year with the hope of getting lucky this 2011. 

New Year's countdown @ Rizal Park, Manila

Last New Year’s Eve, as the countdown begins, non-stop display of fireworks, loud firecrackers, honking of horns and other ways of making noise greeted the coming year. This practice deems to drive the bad spirits away.

Another belief is to prepare 12 round and sweet fruits. By doing this, they say, will bring abundance and prosperity for the whole year round.

watermelon, papaya, ponkan, mango, pear, fuji apple, melon,pineapple, grapes, persimmon, kiat-kiat, longgan

Eating together as a family during medya noche will also make the relationship stronger.

The Feast

roast beef

fruits and vegetable salad

bacon carbonara

fish fillet w/ caesar dressing

mashed potato sidings

wine & brandy - cheers!

In other countries, the song Auld Lang Syne is frequently sung during New Year. It was composed by Robert Burns during 1788 and originated in Scotland according to an AM station I had listened to. The song means to forget the past and welcome the New Year with hope.

Goodness within, I believe, is what attracts luck. It is how you see and do about the situation. Let’s start the year right by reflecting on the past, improving one self, thinking positively, being at peace with others, helping the needy, protecting nature and by enjoying life. And with God’s grace may this year be truly blessed and fruitful. Happy New Year!