Mid Autumn … (The Season of Harvest)

This may not be a local scene, but you got to trust me, it's the same moon.

Wonder why Mid Autumn Festival is such a celebratory occasion?
Mm… we are told it’s supposed to be so, as illustrated in our culture, history, etc.

It is indeed a beautiful occasion. Heh.. I am not going to challenge that. Seeing many people making an effort to come close together as family or close pals, for meal, chat, fun, etc. is plain beautiful. Try going outdoor in the night as well. Look at the moon. It’s awesome.

I try to view it slightly differently...

Long long time ago, in the “agricultural period” where seasons meant a lot to all.

Spring (春)
Seeds are sowed. Awaiting new “birth”, new hope.

Summer (夏)
Growth continues. This is a growing / strengthening phase.

Autumn (秋)
Harvesting is the main task.

Winter (冬)
Living upon the harvest gathered and preparing for the next spring.

这就是所谓的
春生、夏长、秋收、冬藏。

I shall just concentrate on the discussion of the season of Autumn (秋).

Imagine we are living in that “agricultural period”..
Autumn is a season of harvesting. We see the rewards / results. Shouldn’t we celebrate? Furthermore, on the 15th day of the August, we have the backing of nature to setup a natural stage for us by providing the brightest moon. Wouldn’t you want to call upon all your family members or close pals to come together and make merry for having a bountiful harvest? It would only be the timeliest and most appropriate thing to do, I think. Haha...

虽言是秋收，但未必是大丰收。
若在春季播撒的是焦芽败种、或是在夏季对庄稼不多加尽力呵护，收成必然不佳。

However, in the process of harvesting, it is only natural that only the good are reaped, while the bad will be separated, only to be thrown and burnt. Hence, to ensure a bountiful harvest, we must really work hard during / throughout the spring and summer (and also pray hard that the weather conditions match well), or else a harsh reality awaits.

虽说是秋收，其实也谓秋杀。
良好则留、败坏则灭。

Now that we have lived pass that “agricultural period”, does this festival loses its significance? Ha.. many people are still celebrating for the sake of celebrating, I’m afraid, anyway. Ok, we don’t really need a reason to celebrate. Coming together with family and close pals is always nice anytime, anywhere.

Let’s put it in perspective.
We like to have a bountiful harvest (in the autumn), but have we ask ourselves what have we done (in the spring and summer) to deserve it?

In the season of harvesting, we only reap what we sow. :)
Have we sow the seeds for the betterment of tomorrows? :)