Filial piety is the essence of Chinese New Year

COMMENT | Chinese New Year comes early this year. It is especially auspicious as we also herald in 2020 to start a new decade.

Every lunar new year, I am reminded of that all-important subject of filial piety, a virtue of respect for one's parents, elders and ancestors.

We are often encouraged to return home to celebrate the festive occasion with our family and especially for that very traditionally important reunion dinner on the eve of Chinese New Year.

Such encouragement is only appropriate but instead of a once-a-year ritual, we should instead invite our aged parents to live with us, wherever and whenever possible.

Needless to say, taking care of your parents in their sunset years is great filial piety. Mind you, it’s not without its positives too.

A friend in his 40s told me that one of the unexpected perks of living with his parents was the conversations they had, particularly with his...