~:[CH12 - Day 43]:~ Flowing in the Wind

 
~:[CH12 - Day 43]:~ Flowing in the Wind

One of my favorite things is to watch my friend perform in Mulan's Lunar New Year Procession. Every year, it's been slightly different, but each time, it was magical. This year, the route definitely was a lot longer and so I tried to plot out my path to get the best moments captured. Since the first showing was past noon, I was happy that I didn't have to rush out of the house. I was debating going to both parks, but decided to get some work in before heading out. I found the perfect spot as I enjoyed the entire procession before running through the park to catch the procession near Paradise Pier. I figured my way around the barriers and got to another spot before it ended. My experience paid off, as I got an even better spot during the second showing. I relaxed and enjoyed the third procession and truly enjoyed the artistry and beauty celebrating this great event. From the decorations to the food and even the merchandise, I can tell they've put more and more effort into it. Coming from a diverse town, I've always felt comfortable. I've appreciated the fact that cultures were represented and respected and while we definitely have our share of issues, when traveling outside the bubble of Cerritos, I notice just how lucky we have it. I think that's why I grow even more attached and are more appreciated of events and performances related to culture. You can truly appreciate others and can gain a better understanding about your friends, family and the many others you'll cross paths in your lifetime. We all have our differences including the soil in which we were brought up, but ultimately, in the end, we are one. With racism and other forms of discrimination on the rise, I hope that people will begin to see people for who they are and learn to treat each other with more respect, love and compassion. As I watched the colorful ribbons flowing through the wind, it made me think about the colorful world in which we live and my hope that we can flow together in the wind, beautifully and in harmony. Let's work together to erase hate and allow our beauty to be displayed in unity during the procession we call life.