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The way we do things becomes
our family traditions. Chances are your family doesn't have them written down anywhere, but if a friend asks you about
a certain celebration or holiday . . . you'll tell them, "We always do this."
On May 5th, in Japan, families fly colorful fish in
the sky, pinwheels spin in the breeze, and streamers float in the wind. It’s a family tradition known as 'Children's
Day.'
Originally
known as ‘Boy's Day,’ this national holiday celebrates the happiness of all children. It is also a day for
children to thank their parents for everything they do for them.
The
holiday came about from an ancient Chinese story about carp that swam up a waterfall and turned into dragons. A carp is a
strong fish known for its energy and for jumping high out of the water. Families fly kites in the shape of carp to show
Japanese boys the importance of strength and courage. Japanese boys often receive their carp kite when they’re
born and their kite flies on Children's Day until they become a teenager.
The
kites are hung from a bamboo pole, with a pinwheel at the top. Each family member has their own carp kite. The largest
kite at the top of the flagpole is for the father, the second for the mother, and the smallest for the children. Long strands
of colorful streamers blow alongside the kites.
Much like ‘Girl's Day’
that falls on March 3, families display a collection of dolls in their home. Japanese boys are given a set of Samurai dolls when they are
born. The Samurai were the most noble warriors of Japan. The helmets they wore symbolized strength and courage just like
the carp. One of these dolls is the Kintaro doll. Kintaro is a
Japanese folk hero, a boy of superhuman strength who grew up to be a famous warrior.
No
wonder Japanese boys look forward to Children's Day. They fly kites, display dolls, eat tasty snacks, and bathe with
iris leaves. The Japanese believe that iris leaves keep you from getting sick and help make you strong.
Children's Day activities touch the hearts of the Japanese family. Traditions help
family members feel good about themselves and each other.
Think about some of your family traditions, whether it be making Christmas cookies, vacationing
at the beach, or having family dinners. The next time you take part in your family tradition, remember that families
are important all over the world.
Illustration Copyright © 2008 Lisa Griffin
Text Copyright © 2008 Lori Calabrese
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