Scottish and Chinese Celebrations

Yesterday was the anniversary of the birth of Robbie Burns, a famous Scottish poet and composer. Ever heard of him? Robbie Burns Day is "celebrated" in Scotland and pockets around the world. The only "official" celebration I ever attended was in Southern England (go figure), in which Scottish food (including haggis) was served followed by Scottish country dancing. Fun!

Here's one of his most famous love songs:


And probably his most famous song (at least to North Americans):

For the auditorily astute, that song was featured in the Sex and the City movie.

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And today marks the start of the Chinese (Lunar) New Year, the start of a celebration for many people of Asian descent, not just Chinese. Lai-see (red envelopes filled with money or candy) are given to children (and sometimes unmarried young adults), which would have to be my favourite part having received them a couple times. I know there are traditions that respect elders, but the cornerstones I know are fireworks, dancing and celebration, and lots of eating. Kinda like most Western "holidays".

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I say we celebrate everyone's holidays. Why? Well, it teaches us about other culture's beliefs and traditions. And (more importantly) celebrations are fun, so why not celebrate?!

So I say:

• Slàinte, sonas agus beartas! (Health, wealth and happiness in Scottish gaelic)
  and
• Gung Hay Fat Choy! (Cantonese wishes for the New Year)