As Chinese people, we have always been deeply influenced by the traditional cultural beliefs of our ancestors. One of the most important of these beliefs is the concept of auspiciousness. Many of us still turn to fortune-tellers to help us determine the best days to carry out important activities, such as getting married, moving into a new home, or even hanging a new door. As a recent example in the countryside, it is also important to choose an auspicious day to install a new door for our self-built homes.
For those who live in rural areas, building their own houses is a common practice. Many farmers choose to build homes on their own land where they can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the countryside. Recently, one of my neighbors decided to renovate his house. He had just finished building it a few years ago but felt that it was time to install a new door for security, practicality and beautification reasons. To ensure that the new door was installed on an auspicious day, he sought out advice from a fortune-teller.
The fortune-teller used a Chinese almanac to find a series of auspicious days and finally decided on a specific day for the installation. On the chosen day, the whole family got up early, cleaned the house, and prepared offerings of fruits, incense, and candles. They then invited the fortune-teller to come to their home and offer a prayer to the gods to bless their new door.
Once the ceremony was done, the family began to install their new door. The father was in charge of cutting the wood and preparing the door, while his sons and some hired laborers helped him with the installation process. The mother prepared food and drinks for everyone, showing her hospitality towards the guests.
After several hours of hard work, the new door was successfully installed. The family felt extremely happy and proud. The father grinned from ear to ear as he looked at his handiwork. The mother expressed her appreciation to everyone for their hard work. They then invited the fortune-teller to stay for dinner, during which they talked and laughed together.
Looking at this heartwarming scene, I couldn't help but feel the strong sense of community and family values that exist in rural areas. Building your own home and taking care of your family is more than just a physical task; it is a spiritual journey that involves the support and love of your family and community.
Through this experience, I also witnessed the importance of tradition and cultural beliefs. Although some may question the effectiveness of fortune-telling, it is undeniable that it plays a significant role in Chinese society. It not only helps us to choose the best days for important occasions but also reflects our deep-rooted respect and belief in the mystical power of the universe.
In conclusion, the installation of a new door may seem trivial, but the Chinese people have a deep understanding of how important it is to choose an auspicious day. Building our own homes and caring for our families is not just a physical task, but also a spiritual journey that reflects the unbreakable bond between family and community. The essence of tradition and cultural beliefs is an irreplaceable and valued treasure in our lives.