"Ang pows" or red packets

Let me say something about "Ang pows" or "hong baos" (literally meaning "red packets") When we were kids that was what we looked forward to receiving on Chinese New Year. I had no hesitation to offer our guests drinks and New Year cookies for good reason! In Hong Kong these red packets are referred to as "lai se."

When we were kids, we would be given "ang pows." Because our family was very poor, we would receive them and when the visitors were gone we had to hand them over to Mother. New Year over she would then decide how much we would be given! You see, she had to give out 'ang pows'!

Today's children keep the 'ang pows' themselves and spend on themselves! It's a different world! Times have changed.

Normally we give 'ang pows' to children who are not married. But we feel unmarried people who are gainfully employed should not expect to receive them! Anyway for us we merely give token sum to children. And they are to receive with two hands and of course say, "Thank you". Recipients do not open their 'ang pows' in front of anyone, especially the givers. It is very rude to do so.

Of course when it comes to your own family, the amount is more. We give to our grandchildren more of course! We cannot afford to gave the same amount to all and sundry.

Now that we belong to the "elderly" category or referred to as the elders, our children give us 'ang pows!' Some relatives, a niece and nephew, and close friends do that too (Please I am not soliciting from anyone. I am merely stating facts, not giving out hints!) This year we were pleasantly surprised to receive even from our two grandchildren who are now gainfully employed.  We thank God for thoughtful children and grandchildren,  who still observe Chinese traditions. Daily we thank God for our three children and six grandchildren. Two have served their national service and one will be entering national service on Valentine's Day - February 14!  We cannot be accused of contributing to the decline in Singapore population!