Westwood was visited by four
colorful Imperial Guardian Lions (or Foo Dogs) to celebrate Chinese
New Year. An imperial guardian lion is a kind of statue believed
to have strong mythic protective powers that has traditionally
stood in front of Chinese Imperial palaces, temples, emperors'
tombs, government offices, and the homes of government officials
and the wealthy from the Han Dynasty until the end of the empire
in 1911.
Thanks to our partnership
with Mr. Le and Red Top Restaurant, this troop of college-aged
students from Temple made the trip to entertain not only the
Westwood Colts but also our Bales Broncos. Under sunny skies,
the students watched as the Foo Dogs performed their ceremonial
dances which culminated in the breathing of fire to scare away
bad spirits and the consumption of a leisee, a red envelope filled
with lucky money to symbolize prosperity.
Why not check out
the book Sam and the Lucky Money by Karen Chinn for more
details on a Chinese New Year's celebration and to see how cleverly
this author has woven a character theme into this cultural gem.
2008 is the Year of the Rat - Gung Hay Fat Choy!
