Skipping the ads impatiently so I can begin watching my YouTube videos today, on the spur of the moment, I recollect some TV ads produced by the late Yasmin Ahmad we all have once eagerly anticipated on and off big national holidays.
An old atuk who has the habit of farting at mealtimes being looked after by his reluctant daughter and son-in-law.
The cute little boy Tan Hong Ming in primary school uniform who is secretly in love with a cute little girl, who actually likes him as well.
An elegant woman addressing the audience at her husband’s funeral, sharing how she wishes her three children would also find life partners who are as beautifully imperfect as her husband was.
My favourite one to reminisce this festival is the short yet significant commercial taking place at an old folk’s home. The women take turns at a round dining table to update, if not showing off to each other what (how much) their children are doing (earning). The ad ends with the women eating in silence after waving goodbye to one of the companions who has been picked up by her son and his family in a local car to cuti-cuti in Cameron Highlands.
“Love is the greatest blessing in life.”
This is the message meant to share with everyone watching the ads. Though different people have different definitions of love, many of us have been taught to love by being there for people we care for. This year, however, celebrating CNY during the pandemic, please allow me to redefine love as taking good care of ourselves and those around us.
Sometimes, love is showing up for those you care for.
Sometimes, love means taking good care of yourself and those around you.
Moo-shi, Moo-shi, Happy 牛 Year!
哞喜 哞喜 新年快樂
From everyone at Adam Ong Photography,
We wish you a wonderful new year filled with strength and determination of an ox.
