Lai See

When I was a child my dad, who is from Hong Kong, used to give us all a little red envelope at Chinese New Year. The envelope would contain a little money. This special red envelope, given to children on special occasions is known as Lai See. Chinese New Year is one such occasion.

Red is a lucky colour. Gold (the money) represents prosperity so the giving of the Lai See is a wish for good luck and good fortune in the coming year (many believe to the giver and receiver).

Tomorrow marks the beginning of Chinese New Year. Year of the Rabbit or Hare. I will be giving a red envelope to both my kids for the first time. Maybe I am getting sentimental in my old age.

Happy New Year!