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| So Fong, 82’ gaff-rigged schooner, built 1930. In Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong |
Chung Yeung. Aka, the “Double Ninth”.
A day for Sweeping the graves. Showing Respect for one’s ancestors. That’s the holiday today, here in Hong Kong.
Saving old ships. Respect for maritime heritage. That’s my post for today, here in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong’s maritime heritage is embedded in the fabric of the city, but many of its hand-built wooden vessels have been lost to time and urban development. PostMag discovers how one dedicated organisation is racing to preserve this inimitable slice of boating history.
But back to the Double Ninth. It refers to today being 9-9 on the Chinese calendar. And to the number “nine” being associated with the “Yang” of Yin-Yang, Female-Male, from the I-Ching (Yi Jing), The Book of Changes. (Which I once read and tried to study until I admitted to myself that, really, it’s a farrago of superstitious nonsense…).
In short today is a day for Men. Double-Men Day. Let’s hear it for men! Less controversially, representing Health, Auspiciousness and Longevity.
I was once given $10,000 and asked for $1 in change. I asked why. The answer: Because that way I’ve given you $9,999.
