15 is a special number in Chinese culture, representing completeness and satisfaction. However, for some people, it may also represent forgetfulness and regret.
I remember one time when I was young, my family went to a temple to pray for good fortune. We bought some incense sticks and lit them up in front of the altars. As we were leaving, my mother reminded me to bow to the statue of the God of Wealth and offer some coins as a tribute. I nodded and followed her out of the temple, but somehow forgot to do what she had told me.
Later that day, my mother found out and scolded me for being careless and disrespectful. She said that forgetting to pay respects to the God of Wealth could bring bad luck and financial trouble to our family. I felt ashamed and guilty, and promised myself that I would never make the same mistake again.
However, as I grew up and became more independent, I found that it was not easy to keep that promise. Sometimes I was too busy or distracted to go to the temple. Other times, I doubted the effectiveness of such rituals and thought they were just superstitions. And occasionally, I simply forgot.
One day, when I was 15 years old, I went to a market with some friends to buy some snacks. We passed by a small shrine that had a statue of the God of Wealth. I remembered the lesson my mother taught me and decided to stop and offer some incense. I searched my pockets for a coin, but realized that I had none.
I felt embarrassed and frustrated. How could I forget something so simple yet significant? Did this mean that I did not care about my family's financial well-being and prosperity? I looked at my friends who were chatting and laughing, unaware of my inner turmoil. I felt isolated and inadequate.
After a few moments of hesitation, I decided to kneel down and bow to the statue. I closed my eyes and whispered a prayer, apologizing for my forgetfulness and asking for forgiveness and blessings. I felt a sense of relief and gratitude, as if the burden of guilt had been lifted off my shoulders.
From that day on, I made a habit of paying my respects to the God of Wealth whenever I had the chance. I learned that it was not just a matter of superstition or tradition, but also a way to express my gratitude and humility. I realized that being rich or successful was not just about material possessions or achievements, but also about spiritual values and virtues.
Nowadays, whenever I encounter the number 15, I smile and remember the lesson I learned. It reminds me to be mindful and respectful of the traditions and beliefs that shape my identity and culture. It also reminds me to be grateful and generous, and to share my blessings with others. After all, the greatest wealth is in our hearts and minds.