I like Chinese New Year.
It's one of the few festivals which I enjoy.
Before every Chinese New Year,
it's customary for the Chinese to spring clean their homes.
To remove all the old clutter etc, so as to welcome the new.
To me, it's a good custom.
It's about removing the old, the past, clearing away the dust, the dirt,
and the grease that stains and sticks onto the windows and furniture,
preventing light and fresh air from streaming in to the homes.
It also strengthens the family bond, especially if everyone pitches in to help.
I enjoy spring cleaning, even though it can get tedious and frustrating sometimes.
This year, may I suggest that we not just clean out our homes, but also our minds as well.
Let's remove all the past conditioning, views, opinions and beliefs, that stains and sticks onto our minds, marring our judgement, preventing wisdom, rationality and fresh ideas from streaming in.
Let's also let go of all the past hurt and pain, all the anger and hate, all the sadness and grief, all the stress and worries, all the fears and anxieties.
Let's release them all and be free ...
Be free from hatred and ill-will
Free from anger and enmity
Free from suffering.
Let's all forgive, let go and be at peace
Let's forgive others and also ourselves, for our past misdeeds.
Let's give others and also ourselves a chance to start anew.
Let's love and be kind to others and also ourselves, and let's make this 'Home' of ours, one where all sentient beings can be free.
A world of Love, Forgiveness and Acceptance.
Have a Happy and meaningful Lunar New Year, everyone!
And a Lovely St. Valentine's Day, too!
With all my love,
Maitre-Light
