My object is a red envelope. The red envelope was originated in China out of red paper. This object is used to hold money that is then given as gifts to relatives as a sign of good luck, blessings and prosperity.  The color red represents good luck. In ancient times, the color red was known to be represented on New Years so that when the monster comes to haunt the town, there is a lot of red around which scares the evil spirit away.  I get red envelopes on New Years. Many relatives celebrate this tradition by putting money in the red envelope and giving it to young family members. During Chinese New Year, family gather for dinner at restaurants or houses of relatives. No matter where the family members are, they are encouraged to travel the distance to have a family dinner. Each elderly is expected to give the red envelope to a young one when they meet. The red envelope is important to me because it represents care, love, and many blessings. Red envelopes represents a new coming year for Chinese people. During this time, I feel that I can truly experience the atmosphere of how chinese culture feels in America. This story reminds myself as Chinese and the roots of my own identity. 

– Darren Y.

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant