Some Chinese Peculiarities

Honoring the ancient family ancestors is continuously a significant custom because Chinese people believe their ancestors can give them guidance on peaceful living; this is why they give their monuments some offerings. Additionally, stone tablets in a silent temple are for the family’s grave sites, whereas the tablets that Chinese use to worship their ancestors and are commonly found in a Chinese home, are entirely made of hard wood. The interesting Chinese people are also fond of different luck symbols such as what can be found in this movie: the little Lucky Cricket, the apple, and the beads of precious jade. Until today, enthusiastic Chinese people still apply these traditional Chinese beliefs. This is also one best reason why China keeps on attracting visitors and spectators to study about their ancient culture and history.

There are also myths that some people believe about chopsticks. Uneven length means you’ll miss your plane, train, or boat, while crossed chopsticks suggest that you’ve already paid the bill or you’re finished with your meal. It is important to use your chopsticks properly; don’t drop the sticks or this may cause bad luck, according to a famous Chinese superstition. The Chinese are so good with their chopsticks that it’s fun and exciting to watch them while dining. Yet, foreigners may feel awkward at first and try to fumble for their Chinese food. But not to worry, a few techniques may help you get along with chopsticks. The basic thing is to hold one stick in stationary place and let the other work and move along with your index finger. Pressure must concentrate on upper chopstick until you keep the other end steady. The most common problem is using chopsticks with rice. You can place the bowl near your mouth or might as well use your hand to scoop some piece of rice — these are not considered bad manners at all.

Crispy, light, and tasty, fortune cookies used to play a big role in the early Chinese revolution. In the 13th century, when Chinese territory was invaded by Mongols, revolutionary leaders baked some moon cakes not to offer retreat from the enemies but to trick their way into winning the battle. Chu Yuan Chang, who was concealed as one Taoist missionary priest, circulated forbidden messages hidden via the lotus paste of moon cakes. Because Mongols did not have a favored craving for lotus paste, they did not trace the plan. The rebel warriors soon took advantage of their weakness and succeeded in winning the battle. Secret messages in moon cakes were then found inside the fortune cookies; eventually, through these treats, Chinese workers of American railways tried to inspire some of their friends with happy quotes.

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