The Power of Reconnection

The end of the year is often a time of festivities for many. For me, one of my favorite holidays falls between December 21-23 annually, a day that marks one of the most important, yet underrated Chinese festivals. Dongzhi Festival, or the Winter’s Solstice Festival, is often celebrated by eating glutinous rice balls or Tang Yuan (汤圆), a dish that symbolizes reunion. Growing up, it was often the most exciting time of the year as my mother would make the necessary preparations for this dish. Waking up extra early for the local market and the scent of the crisp morning air brings back so many nostalgic memories. It also means being able to witness the comings and goings of a farmer’s market, a sneak peek into the unique lives of many different individuals. The festival was special to me as it was an opportunity for everyone to gather to make little rice balls that come in different shapes and sizes, symbolizing the different members in a family. As I got older, I was touched as I learnt that no one in my family really liked these little rice balls, making it a dish always made specially for me.

Growing up, it was often the most exciting time of the year.

With today’s hectic lifestyles, these gatherings are becoming rarer than ever. Instead of making time to travel back to our families, Dongzhi Festival is now often just another day, no longer worth the commute. Being far away from home, it is up to us to create our own traditions. Over the last few years, I have recreated this dish annually to share with neighbors and friends, a warm bowl of Tang Yuan accompanied by a sweet syrupy broth to bring some comfort during the first day of winter. Perhaps it is nothing but an excuse to eat a childhood dish, but it could also be the perfect reason to gather and reconnect. Have you been putting off reconnecting with some of your loved ones? Maybe you too, can find a reason or dish to help you bridge that gap.