So most Catholic and Western people I know whose marriage is dampen by a Death in the Family has to CANCEL or MOVE their wedding to a different, later date... but for the Chinese, the Belief is that a couple must be married within 100 days of a family member's death... As Shaun's father very recently passed away, the countdown begins for his wedding with Lyn (David's sister)-- couple this with the belief that The Year of the OX is not a good time for marriages (seems it is considered an unlucky year to get married)-- what usually takes a year in planning will have to be done before the Chinese NY (3rd week of JAN)! Hence, all the craziness and excitement going on in our household at this time....
This will be an AMAZING feat to accomplish as basically it will be three celebrations: one in Nantou (Shaun's familial home); Kaohsiung (Lyn's); & Taipei - where they both now resides and most of their colleagues and friends are....Now factor in the Feng Shuei part of the whole thing - where one needs to consult with the fortune tellers to see which dates in that little time frame, are good for each of the rituals: family engagement, wedding ceremonies/banquet in the three places, etc... and all the running about trying to get everything accomplish and done: wedding gowns, photo shoots, catering, etc... Let's not forget WORKING throughout all these preparations...
I myself, would just run to the nearest CITY HALL and get it over with -- but if anyone can make this HAPPEN, I know THEY CAN!!! They are two of the KINDEST & SMARTEST people I know... and Lyn is one of the most AMAZING women I have ever met -- very Dedicated, Diligent, and most of all, ORGANIZED... if you meet her you will be able to tell right away that she is totally one of those POWER WOMEN who knows how to take charge and be in control - FAIRLY, mind you...
For our part, David & I, are here to lend support... in any way we can... first up for me is to go WEDDING GOWN shopping this weekend... that should be FUN! This is actually my FIRST REAL CHINESE WEDDING to ATTEND - you know am EXCITED!!!!
LOTSA LUCK & LOTSA LUV Shaun & Lyn!!!!
7 years ago
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3 comments:
Sorry for Shaun's loss. Losing a parent is always a tough thing to go through. The tradition of getting married soon after a death is actually pretty nice -- a sad ending followed by a happy new beginning.
On the happy note... Congratulations to Shaun & Lyn!! This is going to be an exciting few weeks ahead for all of you. I'm sure you and Lyn will have fun shopping for a wedding dress.
I do have to say that like you I would opt for City Hall. Actually, that is what I opted for. :)
But I'm sure all of the celebrations will be wonderful. I am looking forward to each of your blog entries -- and all the photos!! :)
~Mary
Oh my! Please convey my condolences to Shaun..but the tradition is a wonderful way of honoring the ongoing family...
Wish I lived in Taipei! You know I love to organize events!! Lyn could work me to the bone and I'd be thrilled.
Looking forward to all the re-caps of the events...
Norita
Please give my sympathy to Shaun. I can tell that you are still adjusting this cultural shock for having to have this wedding at the time. However, I could not agree more on Mary's comment, "a sad ending followed by a happy new beginning."
I am sure both Shaun and Lyn will have happy life everafer...
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