Time for cheers and tears

Being a Canadian living in China for more than 10 years, I feel fortunate to share the joys of Western and Chinese festivals with my Chinese wife, friends and students.

With Christmas here and the New Year round the corner, I like to walk the streets of Chinese cities to observe the moods of the people and share their cheers and tears. I have noticed a tremendous change in Chinese people's attitude toward Western festivals, especially Christmas and New Year. It is not uncommon nowadays to see Chinese people celebrating with foreigners, some of them neighbors, others friends.

Shopping malls and department stores rise to the occasion and decorate their stores with Christmas trees complete with the customary hangings, and buntings and festoons. Public places, such as parks and squares, too get a festive look. And Chinese people rush to the stores offering season discounts and sales.