Dear Friends,
Today is ghost day of ghost month (7th month in the lunar calendar). This means that many people will be offering food and special money (that denote things like offering furniture, clothes, everything the ghosts need). Usually, people in households and business will do these offerings to the ghosts. When I say "ghosts," this includes the deceased and ancestors.

To do an offering, the Chinese usually put food on a table and bow their heads three times while holding incense. They will say something special like, "Please oh ancestors and ghosts, continue to protect our family and look after our business. Wish everyone long life, safety, prosperity, security, and happiness." Then after you bow, you place your incense into the food. Each food represents something different (longevity, safety, security, happiness, etc.).

I did an offering at San Min Elementary School, where we are currently having our orientation activities. Below are some pictures of what I'm talking about.

The principal of the elementary school told us a myth that people usually do not go out tonight on ghost day, but nowadays, people do go out. I'll keep you posted on other holidays I celebrate here in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Over and out, Shiela.

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