Hong Bao

Little (not necessarily the contents) red packets distributed as a from of blessings

As the legend was told, a monster called Nian, attacked people, killed life stocks and destroyed corps every year. Soon the people discovered that Nian was afraid of red colour and the sound of fire crackers. From then, parents would distribute red packets to juniors to help protect children from Nian.

Hong Bao, translated literally “red packet”, it’s a Chinese tradition where money is inserted and given to juniors as a blessing. It is most commonly distributed during Chinese New Year and special occasion such as wedding and birthday.

In the modern, advance and most importantly materialistic world, Hong Bao has become far more than well wishes and blessings. It has become a tool for the wealthy to “show case” their wealth and topic of discussion. People would compare the “size” (the content in the little red packets) and gossip it. For instance, so-and-so is rich and generous, give so much. Or the opposite, so-and-so is rich yet stingy, give so little. So, size does matters!

During weddings, when someone is “invited”, one is expected to pay “market price” (usually benchmark against the cost of the reception). It is supposedly to help the host pay for the event. What kind of invitation requires the guest to pay an expected sum to be invited?? It sounds more a police issuing a traffic ticket! To top it all, if you are not attend the reception, you’ll get a “no show discount”! I have seen people who make end meets borrowing just to pay for this well wish. Why is the celebration of the union of 2 people a burden to others??

What is the value of money compare to fellowship and friendship? Isn’t inviting friends and family to wedding reception a mean of sharing the happiness of the Big Day? Or is it asking them to help sponsor the event (adding to their liability)?