The Joy of Giving Ang Pow

When I was younger, I was most rich after receiving ang pow during Chinese New Year. As an adult, the real joy comes from giving.

Chinese New Year is not just about the oranges, the steamboat, or the noise of reunion dinners. It is about that simple moment when you hold out a red envelope with both hands and say, “Gong Xi Fa Cai.”

Traditionally, once you are married, you begin giving to those who are single. Younger siblings. Cousins. Friends’ children.

Children also give to their parents and grandparents as a sign of gratitude. Employers give to employees to bless the new work year.

These are the customs.

New notes only. Crisp bills for a fresh start.
Red envelopes, because red carries life and celebration.
Never open it in front of the giver.

Even the numbers carry meaning.
Eight sounds like wealth. Six suggests smoothness.
Four is avoided, because in many dialects it sounds like death.

When you give ang pow, you are saying:

I remember you.
I wish you well.
May your year be kinder than the last.

This year, a friend sent me an ang pow unexpectedly. There was no obligation. No ceremony. Just a quiet gesture. I was deeply touched. Not because of the amount, but because someone thought of me. I will remember that.

Sometimes we limit ang pow to relatives and festive visits. But what if we also gave to someone who is still working during the holidays? A cleaner. A security guard. A delivery rider. A stranger who might not expect it.

You do not need a season to give. You do not need a reason. Giving is not about tradition. It is about connection.

In this link, I have shared a short video that moved me about the joy of giving ang pow. https://www.facebook.com/reel/900240409465151/

I would love to hear from you.

What is one ang pow moment you will never forget, whether giving or receiving?