We do not feel strange when we hear so and so are going home for their thansgiving dinner. But, what is 'reunion dinner'?

So far, the Chinese commnities all over the world have the tradition of having reunion dinners every eve of Chinese New Year. No matter where a Chinese is, he or she will find herself welcome into a family to have dinner there, especially if it is on the eve of the festival, according to the lunar calendar.

It is a joy for the older generations to have the younger generations gather under one roof. They exchange news and opinions. Grandfathers, fathers and sons talked about their daily matters. Grandmothers, mothers and daughters chat and gossip in the kitchen, getting ready the best dishes of the year. Children playing together; running and chasing each other around the house.

There are laughter, loud noises, even festive songs blaring aloud from the radios. But, with almost every house in the neighbourhood is sharing the same event, who cares about the noise?

Youngsters in Malaysia these days do not really think of thye significance of having to go home for the festive season. They prefer to go travelling instead. Leaving their parents at home, waiting for them to come home. Although the loud music indicationg the mood, there is no such celebration at home at all.

Some youngsters may be home for the season but, they are always away with their friends. Instead of spending time with their own family, they spend more time with others. What is the significance of that?

Most parents wish to see more of their children. But, to be able to see them once in a while is also a joy. They all wish to have meals together as a family. The Chinese like the word 'round' or 圆 which means members.

'团圆' mean the gathering of the members. the word 圆 with a square box over the '员' means in an enclosure place. Here is the house.

It may be a tradition, but this tradition carries on with a full meaning. A good family reunion brings along happiness the whole year long.