Yes, it’s that time of year again.
Unlike my curmudgeonly friend Mr Fumier, I do like Chinese New Year. One of the best things about it is that instead of wasting time buying presents that the recipients probably don’t want, you simply stick banknotes into red envelopes. The only remotely complex part is remembering to hand over the right envelopes to the right people.
However, there is one thing that puzzles me.
I totally understand the tradition of giving lucky money to children, and I suppose it’s reasonable to extend that to all unmarried relatives. I also think it’s just fine to give “lucky money” to security guards and waiters who have helped you in the past (and in anticipation of good service in the future), even though this is surely not traditional.
I also have no problem with bosses giving “lucky money” to their staff.
What I really don’t get is why you are expected to give “lucky money” to colleagues who happen to be unmarried. What’s that all about, then?
Ordinary Gweilo 
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