Here’s a rule that will make you paranoid: watch what you say. No negative words. No mentioning death, sickness, or even the number “four” (it sounds like “death” in Chinese). If you accidentally say “I’m so tired,” your whole year might be exhausting. My aunt once yelled at my cousin for saying “I don’t want any more food.” She was like, “You’re cursing yourself with poverty!”
Instead, you stockpile lucky phrases. Say “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (wishing you wealth) like a broken record. Say “Happy New Year” until your throat hurts. You’re basically verbally bribing the universe to be nice to you. It works? Mostly.
Unique Traditions During Chinese New Year Celebrations
