Respect for the Aged Day
From Free net encyclopedia
ja:敬老の日 Respect for the Aged Day is a Japanese holiday celebrated annually to honor elderly citizens. In Japanese, it is known as Keirō no Hi 敬老の日. A national holiday since 1966, this used to be held on September 15. In 2000, Japan implemented the Happy Monday Seido (ハッピーマンデー制度, Happy Monday Seido) which moved a number of national holidays to Mondays. Beginning in 2003, Respect for the Aged Day is held on the third Monday of September. In 2005 the holiday was on September 19, 2005.
Japanese culture is ancient and it is steeped in religion and custom. They hold a particularly special place in their hearts for the aged in their society.
Here's how:
1) Do yourself and your kids a favor, visit or call your elderly relatives soon and make sure to tell them that you love them. Or, if you don’t happen to be close to them, how about visiting a local Senior Citizen’s home? Show reverence and respect to the aged in your daily lives and you will be more than rewarded. Talking to these people will help you to understand the lives they have led and to respect the many contributions they have made to society. This, in turn, will help you to give pause and reflect on what is really important in this world and what you need to do to live a better, more rewarding, and more fulfilling life.
2) Have a discussion with those close to you about the elders in your family and community whether they are living or deceased. Make sure you talk with your family about the things these elders have contributed to you and the world.
3) Visit the graves of deceased elders to show your respect. Make sure the gravesite is properly maintained and decorate with flowers if you so choose.
4) Offer a prayer in their honor if you are a religious person. Pray for their health, long life and well-being.
Make sure you take on the celebration of this holiday with the utmost of sincerity. Most Japanese people would be greatly offended if this tradition were not honored with respect.