"We've only been in the UK for a month, and our belongings are still on their way. When we saw the promotion for this event, we immediately signed up. If we continue to stay cooped up at home, I'm afraid I'll go crazy. Thank you for organising these activities!" This was the sentiment expressed by a family who had recently arrived during last Saturday's Lunar New Year couplet writing workshop.
Being away from home, especially during festivals, often triggers a deep sense of longing. Having lived in the UK for over three years, I, like many Hongkongers here, have gradually adapted to the local life, established my own career and social circle, and the homesickness has become somewhat numb. However, there is a group of Hong Kong people who have just arrived. They are still navigating through many aspects of life – adjusting to the weather, adapting to the culture, dealing with various complex applications, and facing the melancholy of being far away from family and friends. It's undoubtedly a challenging experience.
Originally intended to educate children about traditional festivals and calligraphy culture, the workshop simultaneously provided parents with a breather, allowing them to momentarily set aside the tension and confusion of their new lives and join other Hongkongers in welcoming the Lunar New Year. Families, seniors, teenagers, as well as the local British participated in the event. Everyone earnestly wrote New Year blessings, and for many, it was their first time using a brush to write Chinese characters, creating an atmosphere of excitement and joy. The workshop not only passed down traditional culture and united the Hong Kong community but also connected the Hong Kong people with the local community, allowing everyone to feel the rich festive atmosphere together.
Today is New Year's Eve, traditionally a time for family reunions with a festive dinner. Perhaps for Hong Kong people living abroad, in exile, or behind walls, this simple wish may seem distant. However, please remember that you are not alone; we are here with you! During this Lunar New Year, why not create new memories with friends and neighbours here? Invite them to explore the markets, participate in New Year activities, host gatherings, share meals, engage in conversations, and experience a warm and love-filled Lunar New Year.
Last but not least, I wish everyone a peaceful, healthy, and joyful New Year!
LNY events in the coming weekend
9/2/2024 (New Year's Eve) (Friday)：
5-8pm 【Music Jam Session @ London】
6:30-8:30pm【Chill Space @ Manchester】
10/2/2024 (1st day of LNY) (Saturday) ：
10am-4pm【Guildford Hongkongers (GHK) Lunar New Year Market: Pop-up Information Service & Cheer Up Kiosk】
11:30am-2pm【Gratitude and Worship: New Year's Poon Choi Gathering @ Birmingham】
6:30-8:30pm 【Evening Worship Gathering @ London】
11/2/2024 (2nd day of LNY) (Sunday)
11am-1pm 【Morning Worship Gathering @ Manchester】
1:45-3:45pm【Lunar New Year Calligraphy Workshop】@ Derby
5:30-7:30pm【Chill at Home @ Birmingham- Valentine's Day Movie Screening Sunday Gathering】
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