The Chinese character, Fortune, is displayed for the Lunar New Year. It is hung upside down because the phrase “upside-down” is a homonym for the phrase “to Arrive”. By hanging the character upside down we are inviting “Fortune to Arrive”. This act is but a small piece of the depth of Lunar New Year celebrations.

When I reflect on these ideas and all of the different traditions, I can’t help but feel a tinge of shame for not knowing more. There comes a time to look forward and define what it means to “carry the cultural torch”.

Fortune Arrives gives me the opportunity to focus on these important values: Abundance - by actively sharing our gifts, hope - by weaving it into our actions, and time - by being present in the space we share with our chosen family. My wish is that we are able to continue co-creating spaces to play, get inspired, and build together.