If your children complain about their school holidays being too short you can tell them that the Chinese schools hardly have a vacation at all during this time of year. Only December 25th is considered a public holiday.
During this month here in Hong Kong we have seen many commercial Christmas decorations and signs which reflect a cultural interest in the Western customs of Christmas. Although most individuals here would not consider themselves Christians, they celebrate Christmas-like festivities similar to ours such as sending cards, exchanging gifts, and decorating Christmas trees. Call me cynical but I would say that mostly the festivities are results of clever retail marketing campaigns, as was the case with our kids' carol singing events.
I'll post some pictures of the Christmassy things we've spied around town, but my heart feels sad that all the millions of people here have most likely missed the true reason why we celebrate.
