|
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving)In September 2011, MSMAP and the Mount Shasta Recreation & Parks District celebrated Chuseok as a unique contribution to the Senior Nutrition Program. In addition to an action-packed taekwondo demonstration, MSMAP also provided a generous buffet of authentic, fresh Korean food for the seniors to sample. The seniors were joined by students from Oak Leaf Charter School. What is it?
Chuseok (or, Full Moon Harvest Festival) is often described as “Korean Thanksgiving” although this description doesn’t quite do it justice as it also includes elements of Grandparents’ Day, Memorial Day, and Christmas. Occurring on the 15th day of the eighth month of the ancient lunar calendar (September or October), Chuseok is a celebration “on which Koreans, an agrarian people throughout most of history, thank their ancestors for the year’s harvest and share their abundance with family and friends.” 1 It is a time of thanks, bounty, and happiness. A traditional Chuseok holiday starts with a hectic travel schedule to the hometown for a reunion with family. Since over 60% of the Korean population is traveling, a normal two-hour car ride can turn into a 15-hour marathon.2 Early morning, the family pays respects to their ancestors with traditional rites including cleaning the family memorial site (pulling weeds, sweeping the graves, making offerings of food and drink, and ending by bowing in thanks). Afterwards, the family enjoys a festive meal of traditional Korean food, games, song, dance, and an exchange of gifts.3 Why does MSMAP celebrate it?
Aside from learning more about the culture that created both taekwondo and yongmudo and a chance to sample traditional Korean food, Chuseok is a nice excuse to honor the seniors in our community — by sharing some energy with skills and food. “Just as strong roots will bring a plentiful harvest, Koreans find that connecting with the past brings rewards in the present.”4 And connecting with seniors is a great way to build strong roots within our own community. References
1. Korean Thanksgiving Holiday — Chuseok Traditions! (Seoul in Korea) About the Senior Nutrition Project
“Since 1974, there has been a hot lunch program for senior citizens at the City Park Recreation Center...55+ meals are delivered to homebound seniors in the South County (Meals-on-Wheels). Transportation to and from the Mt. Shasta lunch site is also available...The Senior Nutrition Project strives to not only meet the nutritional needs of its senior participants, but also recognizes the importance of socialization and life enrichment. Informational programs, special events, and other activities are a regular component of the senior lunch program schedule.” More... |
|
