Full Moon in September means the Moon Festival for China. Essentially it’s a lot of eating and drinking and spending time with the family. I guess it is kinda like a Thanksgiving of sorts.
It’s cute, and in symbolizing the full moon, a common gift is a Chinese pastry called a Moon Cake – a small rice-based cookie/cake-type thing. So being a laowai and all, I have gotten the story of the Festival from about 34 people and close to 200 moon cakes from everyone. While it’s totally appreciated, it should be noted that I’ve never been a big fan of Chinese pastries in general. Rice or bean based sweets just never did it for me. Unfortunately, it would be insulting to not eat the cake when offered, so I’ve had to eat about 200 more than I would’ve had it been up to me. :(
I remember very clearly where I’ve been for the past three full moons this summer. 3 months ago my family had just recently arrived to Nanjing and I had just completed my finals. My mom and I were by my balcony looking out into the city and talking about China, and the experiences of the past several months.
Two months ago I was driving at about 1am back from Alicson’s house. It was a beautiful, but elusive moon. A couple of hours before Alicson kept on trying to point out the moon while I was driving. She was sitting shotgun so she could focus on the moon and everytime I’d turn to look for it, the moon would hide behind the trees and hills.
I remember seeing it and thinking that I wanted to marry Ali.
Last month she said yes. I think that was one of my favorite full moons.
If there’s someone you care about and they are close to you, take the opportunity to let them know. Give them a hug or a kiss or a handshake or whatever. Appreciate those around you.
Festivals for the Moon
1) Wilco – Jesus, Etc.
2) Architecture in Helsinki – Rendezvous: Potrero Hill
3) Shout Out Louds – Please Please Please
4) Joseph Arthur – Honey and the Moon
5) Broken Social Scene – Anthems for a Seventeen Year-Old Girl