The arrival of another new year is like a second chance, with optimism and faith defining our hopes and aspirations for the coming year. And there's nothing like an old family tradition to help nudge a little luck your way...
At the eve of the new year, a basket of fresh fruits at the table ushers in the coming year in a long running family tradition to symbolize the collective hopes for abundance and prosperity, good health and some luck for good measure.
The unique practice of collecting specific fruits for the New Year is a tradition inspired by Chinese influences, highlighting symbolism and a sincere optimism for the coming year. The rounded shapes of fresh fruits are often associated with currency and prosperity, and having enough fresh fruits at the table should help attract some positive vibes. Here's our bountiful harvest of lucky fruits after a busy day at the supermarket...
Twelve fruits, one for each month, for luck, prosperity and good health in the coming year. Each fruit has a significant meaning, and the collection of varied fruits not only symbolize abundance, but continued prosperity in the new year. And here are the essentials in creating your very own New Year Fruit Basket: Grapes, to represent luxury and abundance. Apples, associated with harmony, for balance. Oranges, with its golden color and round shape, for prosperity. Kiat-Kiat, miniature oranges derived from the Mandarin orange, also for wealth and prosperity. Can't have enough of that. Pomelos, with its distinct red pulp, for good health. Papayas, with its bright yellow color to represent gold, and prosperity. Yup, more of that can help too. Melons, with its large round shape, for family unity. Pears, usually associated with stronger relationships and a symbol for affection, but since the Chinese word for "pear" also means "separation", it's best not to divide the pear and have it all to yourself just to be safe. Avocados, with its green and purple colors to represent wealth and abundance. Mangoes, with its unique sweetness for strong family ties. Lychees, with its red and round shapes, for happiness and good fortune. Bananas, in bunches, for unity and strong family bonds.
And there you have it. Do you have a unique New Year Family tradition with fruits? I'd love to hear from you. Here's wishing everyone a happy and prosperous new year!
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