5. The Cambodian New Year
- Iris Iris
- Jun 29, 2021
- 2 min read
« Happy Khmer New Year everyone »
This Cambodian New Year is somewhat different than usual for Cambodian members who live at CHOICE. The corona virus prevents them from reuniting with their families, not only out of respect for Cambodian government laws, but also to protect their families, and their villages from any spread of the virus.
However, they still keep smiling, and just go on with their lives. I find that so respectful.
« Wonderful new experiencies ! »
The Cambodian New Year's festivities last for several days. So, we started for the first day, by cooking a traditional dish with Lida, Srey Mo and Mia. It was so good for me, to find myself with these exceptional, strong women, just to have a moment of sharing. From Cambodian music, to cooking a traditional dish in a traditional way, it was truly exceptional.
After setting our preparations "on fire", Lisa and Eng came to make up me for the occasion. This is the first time that I have found myself with a completely white face, because of the too light foundation. This was of course intentional, white skin is a really important criterion of beauty in Asia. It’s a different experience. In New Caledonia I would have been told I looked like a ghost, but here everyone miraculously thought I was beautiful. It’s really fun ha-ha!
Our little dishes cooked, I go back to see Lida and we tasted our little preparations. It’s simply delicious, and even more when it’s something we cooked together. In the evening, in small groups, we celebrated the New Year with a small meal. Then we had fun with a little solo or duet karaoke. Happy Cambodian New Year everyone!
The next day at dawn, the custome for each Cambodian family is to pray for the protection of the family, in their small place of worship created for the occasion. Each family had their own display, each just as beautiful as each other, and in the evening, hey hey friends, your heart is warm. For my part, I did not attend the New Year's prayer ... unfortunately for me, I was still in Wonderland at the time of prayer ..
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