重阳节的感悟 - Reflections from Overseas Students

By the Editor of LXS.net

Introduction: The Meaning Behind Chongyang Festival

Welcome, fellow overseas students! Today, we're diving into the cultural significance and personal reflections surrounding one of China's most cherished traditional festivals: the Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival (重阳节). This festival, celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, is a time for honoring elders and appreciating the beauty of autumn. But what does it mean to us, far away from home?

Roots and Traditions: Understanding the Origins

Let's start by exploring the roots of this festival. Legend has it that the origins of Chongyang Festival date back over 2,000 years, with various historical and mythological accounts. One popular story involves a scholar named Huan Jing, who was warned by a Taoist master about an impending disaster in his hometown. He advised Huan Jing to climb a mountain with his family and wear cornel twigs (茱萸) to ward off evil spirits. This act of climbing mountains and wearing cornel twigs (Chrysanthemum Pedestrianism or 登高佩茱萸) became a tradition, symbolizing a way to escape misfortune and seek longevity.

A Time for Reflection: Honoring Our Elders Abroad

Being abroad, we often find ourselves missing our families, especially during special occasions. Chongyang Festival is not just about traditions; it's also a time for reflection and gratitude towards our elders. How can we honor them from afar? Through video calls, sharing memories, or even preparing their favorite dishes, we can keep the spirit of the festival alive, no matter where we are in the world.

The Power of Nature: Appreciating Autumn's Beauty

One of the highlights of Chongyang Festival is the appreciation of nature, particularly the vibrant colors of autumn. For many of us, experiencing fall in a new country can be both exciting and nostalgic. Whether it's taking a walk in a local park, enjoying the crisp air, or simply observing the changing leaves, these moments connect us to the essence of Chongyang Festival – finding beauty in simplicity and the passage of time.

Building Community: Celebrating Together

While being away from home, building a sense of community becomes even more important. Chongyang Festival provides a wonderful opportunity to gather with friends and fellow students to celebrate together. Organizing potlucks, sharing stories, or participating in local cultural events can help create a sense of belonging and make the festival feel more authentic, despite being far from home.

Cultural Exchange: Sharing Our Traditions

Living abroad offers a unique platform to share our cultural heritage with others. Chongyang Festival is a perfect occasion to introduce our traditions to international friends. By explaining the significance of the festival, preparing traditional foods like Chongyang cakes (重阳糕), or engaging in activities like flying kites, we not only educate but also foster deeper connections with those around us.

Embracing Change: Finding New Traditions

Being in a new environment means adapting and creating new traditions. Perhaps you discover a local custom that resonates with the spirit of Chongyang Festival. Maybe you start a new ritual, like writing letters to your loved ones or planting a tree each year. These small acts can become meaningful ways to honor the festival while embracing the changes and growth that come with living abroad.

Conclusion: Keeping the Spirit Alive

In conclusion, Chongyang Festival is more than just a celebration; it's a reminder of our roots, the importance of family, and the beauty of nature. As overseas students, we may not be able to participate in all the traditional activities, but we can still keep the spirit of the festival alive through our actions and attitudes. Whether it's through sharing our culture, building new traditions, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the world around us, let's make this Chongyang Festival a memorable one, filled with warmth, gratitude, and connection.