The 12th of February 2021 marks the beginning of the lunar new year, the year of the Ox. The Ox is known as a reliable, diligent, and assiduous animal, with characteristics denoting the spirit of determination, positivity, and integrity. Thus the year of Ox is often synonymous with resilience, persistence, and hard work for a fruitful effort and eventual achievement.
Sadly, though, this year the Chinese New Year celebrations will be toned down because of this pandemic. In fact, the national restrictions have adjusted the ways we celebrate various festivals, including the Chinese New Year. As the whole nation continues to abide by the Movement Restriction Order (MCO) to help alleviate the spread of the COVID-19, social gathering and festivities have been put on hold. However, won’t stop us from celebrating the festival by bringing the celebration online. We can hold unconventional reunions by using video calls while apart, bestow our blessings to loved ones with virtual angpaus, and send our wishes through social media. In the meantime, we urge all SEGians to stay safe and to stay vigilant while celebrating this unusual Chinese New Year with your loved ones.
In honour of the upcoming Chinese New Year, we would like to share the characteristics of the Ox with our readers – resilience, persistence, and hard work. These characteristics are appropriate for the year as we face disruptions and unknown challenges this new year. Resilience allows us to cope with the distress caused by uncertainty. Persistence encourages us to stay optimistic. And hard work allows us to work diligently towards our goals.
May the Year of the Ox be kinder and gentle to you and to all of us, and may we have a fruitful harvest in our personal and communal lives. Wishing you a very happy and prosperous Chinese New Year of the Ox 2021!