Xiao En https://xiao-en.com Tue, 16 Apr 2024 02:26:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://xiao-en.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-90374_photo_12855-32x32.webp Xiao En https://xiao-en.com 32 32 When a Space Organizer Meets a Counsellor (Part 2) https://xiao-en.com/when-a-space-organizer-meets-a-counsellor-part-2/ Mon, 01 Apr 2024 02:00:55 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=8216

The principles of decluttering are seamlessly applied in daily space organization. However, when confronted with the possessions left behind by loved ones, the essence of these principles appears to shift subtly. Can the act of clearing everything pave the way for a genuine fresh start? Does it enable the bereaved to navigate their sorrow with ease? Or does it risk evolving into feelings of regret and longing? Hence, a profound exchange unfolds between a space organizer and a counsellor, as they generously share insights into the ‘method of mementos categorising,’ ‘Memory Box,’ ‘digital storage,’ and ‘creative ways to repurpose mementos’…

Tan Qin Ru is a registered and professional counsellor. What sets Qin Ru apart is that she works as a counsellor on the front line of funeral services, spending a considerable amount of time accompanying family members who have lost their loved ones through the grieving process.

“Although items are non-living things, some items hold emotional connections for people, such as items of high commemorative value, especially those left by important individuals in our lives. When it comes to decluttering, the considerations may be different, and for some people, it may not be an easy process.”

Throughout the process of accompanying families in mourning, witnessing the belongings left behind by the deceased had a profound impact on the bereaved, leaving Qin Ru deeply moved. During the demonstration of decluttering with the space organizer Jaq, Qin Ru shared the story of her beloved pet dog, Fei Mao, whom she lost and treated like family. When reminiscing about Fei Mao, we can see a genuine smile on Qin Ru’s face, but also glimpse a hint of tears in her eyes.

“Fei Mao was a mixed-breed dog, and this doll was made to resemble him in terms of his fur colour and appearance. Here, I’ve also collected some of his fur. He passed away due to kidney failure in 2018.”

Qin Ru carefully collected all items related to Fei Mao in a box, creating what could be called a “Memory Box” exclusively dedicated to him, shared among her and her family. Inside are two albums and a commemorative ceramic tile bearing Fei Mao’s paw print.

“This is Fei Mao’s paw print taken before his cremation as a keepsake. To be honest, seeing these items now still brings sadness.”

 

Give yourself more time to organize the mementos

“Fei Mao was seriously ill at that time. I accompanied him to the hospital for blood tests and reports every week. He needed intravenous drips every day. Then suddenly he was gone, and I was asked to immediately tidy up his belongings. It was very difficult, and it was heartbreaking that no one could understand that I needed more time to sort through his mementos.” Space organizer Jaq, who was listening nearby, gently patted Qin Ru’s shoulder as a gesture of understanding and comfort.

As a counsellor, understanding and empathy is crucial for professional competence. Due to personal experience, Qin Ru can empathize more deeply. “In general, when faced with the belongings left behind by a loved one, the bereaved do not exhibit a singular reaction. Some may directly face these belongings, some may need others to assist in handling them, and some may be completely unable to face them immediately, leaving the items in their original place, perhaps in a room, temporarily untouched. Therefore, we encourage family members to avoid pushing, offer more understanding, time, and space to the individuals involved, allowing them to have their own pace in preparing to face this situation. Only when they are ready, can we discuss the next steps.”

The ‘Memory Box’ provides a warm buffer period

Space organizer Jaq also added that if there are negative emotions at the moment, no one would enjoy the act of tidying and organizing, so usually when receiving a job, there is a certain level of readiness from client. “At this point, we also do not directly encourage the client to declutter. When you are unsure of how to handle it but feel that certain items hold commemorative value, we suggest creating a ‘Memorial Area’, or it could be a box we call a ‘Memory Box’, where items of commemorative value can be stored first, and then regularly review these items.”

Jaq fully agrees with Qin Ru’s idea of setting up a box to store all the mementos of Fei Mao, which can be taken out for reminiscing when needed, as these items hold significant therapeutic value in providing comfort. Jaq then asked, “I am quite curious from the perspective of a counsellor, how do you handle it when a bereaved family member is ready to sort through their deceased loved one’s belongings?”

Qin Ru replied, “Generally, there are not many bereaved families who actively bring up the need to sort through the deceased’s belongings, perhaps because most people are unaware of a method for organizing such items. If they express the need, we will share with them Mementos Categorisation Method from Mr. Fong Yee Leong, a professional of hospice care.”

Firstly, you can start by categorising the mementos based on their practical value, dividing them into “Useful” and “Not Useful.” Then, consider the commemorative value and categorise them as “Hold emotional significance” and “Not hold emotional significance.” This will result in four different categories. Once the categorisation is completed, you can then think about taking the appropriate actions accordingly.

“The easiest category is the ‘Not Useful’ and ‘Not hold emotional significance’ items (Block 1), as these items can be discarded directly,” explained Qin Ru. “Next are the ‘Useful’ but ‘Not hold emotional significance’ items (Block 2), in which case these items can be given to the right person, donated to those in need, allowing them to continue to serve a purpose and value to their new owner.”

What’s worth discussing are the “Useful” and “Hold emotional significance” items. “At this point, it is important to consider the individual’s current emotional state. If they can handle the emotions involved, they can choose to keep the items with them and even find creative ways to make use of them. For example, clothes can be turned into pillowcases; with some creativity, they can be transformed into cushions or other items, allowing these belongings to provide comfort and solace, and enabling the individual to maintain a connection to the emotions associated with the departed.”

“This is also known as ‘recreating heirlooms,’ and it is being promoted and practiced in other countries, such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia, the UK, and more,” added Qin Ru. “Lastly, for items that are ‘not useful’ but ‘hold emotional significance’, they can be placed in a Memory Box. When needed, they can be taken out to reminisce.”

Digital storage also has warmth

From the perspective of space organization, a Memory Box also requires regular review. It provides individuals with a space for self-dialogue, reminiscence, and reflection on the ways these items are commemorated, whether they acquire new meanings over time. “If an individual feels ready to declutter items, we also recommend the ‘digital storage’ method, which involves taking photos of the items before decluttering and storing them in electronic devices or the cloud. This way, even if the items are no longer there, we can continue to remember our loved ones by looking at the photos,” added Jaq.

Although some items carry emotions, material things will eventually decay. If one day these items are damaged, our love and connection with the deceased may not necessarily be cut off. At this point, the perspectives of the two individuals seem to coincidentally touch upon transcending the material level. Space organizer Jaq says, “A Memory Box doesn’t have to be physical; it can also exist in our hearts, forever cherished.” Counsellor Tan Qin Ru further adds, “Sometimes, love and memories can transcend material possessions, such as the spirit of the deceased, their favourite phrases, etc. We can also imitate and practice these in our lives, carrying on their spirit. Even without physical items, the love and memories imprinted in our hearts can create enduring connections.”

This is a valuable exchange that has allowed two seemingly unrelated professions to find many common points of human warmth. Space organizer Jaq says, “The process of communicating with the counsellor has made me value more how we establish connections with our deceased loved ones. While sorting through their belongings, it is actually a way for us to reflect on and appreciate the deceased. If decluttering or digitising storage is needed, it is not about severing our thoughts and connections with the deceased; instead, it is a way of ‘formally’ storing them in our hearts.”

Counsellor Tan Qin Ru says, “Organizing spaces and belongings sometimes also involves sorting through our own emotions and state of mind. I once read a book by Taiwanese organizer Phyllis, where I learnt that he had to deal with a house full of items left behind by his late mother, prompting him to consider the importance of decluttering during one’s lifetime. If one day the roles were reversed, and in the future if I were to pass away, who would be tasked with organizing my belongings? How would they go about it? Would it cause them trouble? These are perspectives worth contemplating.”

When a Space Organizer Meets a Counsellor (Part 2) – Short Video version

Editor's Note:

Organizing creates more opportunities for us to engage in dialogue with ourselves, particularly when considering our "needs" and "wants", which are magnified within us for discussion and examination. While this may appear demanding, why do some individuals still find a necessity for "organizing"? Perhaps the answer lies in something as straightforward as this: desiring a more structured and orderly life, aspiring to progress towards a brighter future. In a way, this earnest, optimistic, and proactive approach to life seems to be mirrored in how we organize our own existence. Just as physical spaces and material possessions can be arranged, have we also arranged our lives effectively? Planning and organizing in advance, learning to understand and treat ourselves well, can be seen as a valuable gift we give to our own life.

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[The Gift of Life] Gratitude Reward https://xiao-en.com/the-gift-of-life-gratitude-reward/ Tue, 26 Mar 2024 02:00:49 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=8069

Begin your final affairs organizing now, not just in the twilight years. It’s a gift to yourself and a way to appreciate life.

  1. Complimentary funeral service package worth up to RM38,888 with purchase of burial plot*
  2. Save up to 30% for selected products*
  3. Installment payment up to 24 months*

* Selected products only. T&C apply.

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Alternative Option To Combine Qing Ming Tradition & Modern Elements https://xiao-en.com/alternative-option-to-combine-qing-ming-tradition-modern-elements/ Tue, 19 Mar 2024 02:00:17 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=7947

As we contemplate the certainty of joining our ancestors one day, how can we ensure that future generations remember us? This introspective query indirectly highlights the significance of the Qing Ming Festival. In an era marked by an array of choices, it appears that the younger generation is drifting further from Qing Ming traditions. What approach should we take to communicate with them effectively and cultivate a favourable view of Qing Ming tomb-sweeping while safeguarding our cultural heritage? Confronted with the younger generation’s focus on environmental friendliness and social transformation, perhaps we can discover mutual ground for discussion by embracing concepts of modernization and civic responsibility.

Take the “beauty” of tradition, never forget its roots

The Qing Ming Festival has been passed down through the ages, with its irreplaceable values and virtues, just like the ancestral worship tradition that allows family members to connect with each other no matter the generation. The spirit of filial piety, is worthy of eternal praise. In this edition of PIETY, we are honoured to have Dr. Yam Kah Kean, a scholar of Chinese culture to share his insights.

“During the tomb-sweeping process, the ancestral worship ceremony not only allows us to express filial piety and respect to our ancestors, but also another important aspect is ‘remembering our roots.’ Without the ancestors, there would be no descendants. Realizing that our existence today is not a given, it reminds us to be grateful for our family roots and to never forget our origins.”

拜祭步骤  Praying Steps
拜祭步骤 Praying Steps

Dr. Yam Kah Kean is also a professor in the Department of Chinese Studies at the University of Malaya. His thesis was related to the category of Chinese religion. “However, based on my observation, if children have had interactions with deceased ancestors in their lives, they tend to have a stronger emotional connection to their ancestors. When instilling in them the concept of honouring the departed and respecting the distant, it is relatively easier.

Dr. Yam Kah Kean believes that for the younger generation who may not have met their ancestors or have a detached image of them, fostering a stronger connection with the Qing Ming Festival doesn’t necessarily require exclusively modern approaches. Instead, it is important to incorporate the beauty of traditional customs, as this is the way to convey the original spirit and essence of the Qing Ming Festival, allowing the younger generation to accept and pass it on through the generations. “When the true essence of Qing Ming is understood and acknowledged, especially when instilled in children from a young age, they will not reject it when they grow up, accepting it as a form of honouring their ancestors.”

Combining modern elements, civic-minded worship

Of course, the beauty of traditional culture may not effectively engage with the younger generation. Faced with the global issues for “environmental friendliness” and the fervour of young people for “social transformation,” we may find opportunities to connect with them from these perspectives. Without abandoning traditional customs, we can integrate the modern concept of “civic-minded worship,” enriching the significance of Qing Ming practices.

“The most important aspect of tomb-sweeping and ancestral worship is sincere reverence for our ancestors. It’s essential for the public to understand that ancestral worship isn’t merely comforting the deceased, but a heartfelt tribute from descendants, updating ancestors on family matters, aiming for peace for both the living and the departed.”

When it comes to the modern offerings for Qing Ming, such as elaborate paper replicas of ships, airplanes, smartphones, various new electrical appliances, and unexpected trendy items, Dr. Yam Kah Kean suggests that Qing Ming should avoid a mentality of comparison. Instead of opting for “high-end luxury” offerings, it may be better to simply prepare a few sets of paper clothes, shoes, incense, candles, tea, or personally fold some gold and silver paper. Fragrances can also be subtle rather than opting for large incense sticks, simplifying the Qing Ming ceremony in a modern way and gradually practising environmental friendliness.

“Furthermore, it is also recommended to avoid setting off fireworks during Qing Ming. Offer the appropriate amount of food for worship, avoiding excess and waste. After the worship is completed, pack the food to take back home, leaving no trash behind, maintaining a clean environment, and making the ancestral worship activities more civic-minded.”

Therefore, between civic-minded worship and traditional culture, it’s not necessarily an either-or situation. As a scholar in Chinese cultural studies, Dr. Yam Kah Kean also agrees that we can strike a balance between tradition and modernity, allowing both to coexist harmoniously.

Learn from the policies of other countries

Civilised worship has already been promoted in other countries. According to reports from “CommonWealth Magazine”, in recent years, various county and city governments in Taiwan have actively implemented the practice of “centralised burning of paper offerings” in the hope of reducing indiscriminate burning activities and minimising air pollution. Additionally, there is also the concept of “substituting merit for money”, which encourages people to redirect the money spent on purchasing paper offerings towards charitable donations, offering merits to ancestors while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions, achieving two goals at once.

In addition, in some regions of China, setting off firecrackers or releasing sky lanterns during the Qingming Festival to honour ancestors has been deemed illegal to prevent fire hazards. Therefore, as the world actively promotes environmental protection, civic-minded worship has gradually emerged as a new option, seemingly paving the way for a different approach where the new generation who care for society and the environment can gradually immerse themselves in the atmosphere of traditional culture.

Xiao En has also taken small steps towards introducing their “ Simplify · Reduce ” guide regarding the observance of the Qing Ming Festival in 2024. It encourages the adherence to the spirit of reverence for the ancestors through low-carbon, thrifty, and eco-friendly practices. This offers an additional choice and opportunity for reflection during this year’s Qing Ming Festival.

Editor's Note:

From the richness of our traditional culture to the advancements in modernization, the importance of environmental protection, and the cultivation of civic responsibility, our ultimate goal remains to forge a lasting connection with the spirit of our ancestors. The crux of the matter lies in whether we honor their essence and legacy during their time on earth. As elders, can we, while observing the Qing Ming Festival or standing before their gravestones, weave tales that link descendants to their forebears, nurturing their imagination and deepening their bond with the past? Will our descendants carry forth this spirit, passing it down from generation to generation? The Qing Ming Festival holds immense value beyond its role in fostering filial piety and strengthening family ties. It serves to awaken shared memories within our family, fostering a sense of unity and identity not only among family members but also within the wider community and nation. Through the ages and even beyond the realm of life and death, it stands as a testament to the enduring unity of our family.

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Enlightenment Ceremony 2024 https://xiao-en.com/ec2024/ Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:00:47 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=7898

09:30 – 16:00

EC 2024 Packages

Registration Due Date : 2 August 2024, 5pm

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Court of Summit https://xiao-en.com/court-of-summit/ Tue, 12 Mar 2024 02:00:18 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=7739

Court of Summit – Harmony Between Heaven and Earth

Court of Summit, a brand-new Chinese-style columbarium at Xiao En Memorial Park.

Like its namesake, the Court of Summit is situated in a prime location atop a hill in Xiao En Memorial Park, bringing closer together the harmonious relationship between heaven and earth.

The architectural design departs from traditional temple colours but retains the beauty of Chinese culture. The combination of contemporary and classic elements, whilst paired with the subtle elegance of its neutral design, gives new meaning to modern Chinese artistry.

The location of the mountain and river incorporates natural lighting and ventilation systems, allowing future generations to reminisce in a zen-like atmosphere. Carefully selected durable granite materials, combined with forward-thinking maintenance strategies that allows for easy management, not only provides a peaceful resting place for the departed, but also propel the Court of Summit towards a sustainable coexistence.

This is not just a place to house a loved one’s ashes, but also a zen-inspired columbarium that offers respect for the departed and emphatic remembrance for the living.

Single Niche
Dimension : 300 x 300 x 300mm (W x H x D)

Double Niche
Dimension : 510 x 300 x 300mm (W x H x D)

Price from RM 9,800

 

** T&C apply.
** Price exclude Maintenance Fee, Processing Fee & Granite Plaque.
** Illustrations featured are artist’s impressions. The final design may change at the discretion of the management.

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When a Space Organizer Meets a Counsellor (Part 1) https://xiao-en.com/when-a-space-organizer-meets-a-counsellor-part-1/ Fri, 08 Mar 2024 00:00:49 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=7678

One narrates the beautiful meaning of “decluttering”, the other recounts the priceless memories of “keepsakes and reminiscences”. When a space organizer meets a counsellor, they share seemingly opposing stories, yet the essence of those stories resonates together. This isn’t a debate, but a harmonious and beautiful encounter. The space organizer says, ” Decluttering is not about discarding that memory”, while the counsellor says, “Some Love and memories will one day transcend material possessions.”

The term “space organizer” doesn’t originate from modern times

Some people think that a “space organizer” is a profession that has only emerged in recent years, especially after the book “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Japanese organising guru Marie Kondo was translated into multiple languages and promoted through online media, sparking a craze for tidying up and organising material possessions. As a result, the profession of “space organizers” has received high levels of attention.

“During the 2020 pandemic, as people spent extended periods of time at home due to MCO, they had more free time and began to pay attention to the cleanliness of their living environment, leading to a surge in tidying and organising activities,” recalled space organizer, Jaq.

Jaq is a Malaysian space organizer certified by the Sawa Method Advisor Housekeeping Association in Japan. She was once invited to be a guest on Astro Xiao Tai Yang’s a TV Programme, called “MY KIDS CAN ORGANIZE,” where she shared her knowledge of tidying and organising spaces.

She added that the profession of a space organizer is not a recent phenomenon. In fact, as early as the 1980s, there is the rise of capitalism and consumerism in the United States, so the demand for space organization increased. The establishment of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) in 1985 in the United States brought a more systematic view of the profession of space organizers, marking an important milestone in history.

Consumerism is one of the keywords. As human living standards and economic capabilities improve, the desire for a comfortable life and material possessions continues to grow. Consuming and purchasing have become natural habits, and the distinction between “needs” and “wants” has become blurred. It is easy to end up buying more than necessary without much thought, yet we rarely assess these behaviours in ourselves.

“Have you noticed that from the moment we were born until now, our possessions have been increasing? We have more things, but the space in our homes is decreasing, and our living environment doesn’t seem as comfortable. Therefore, the solution to the current problem is regular tidying and organizing, and even decluttering. Only by letting go of unnecessary items can the space truly flow freely.”

A space organizer is not a cleaner

In that case, if someone hires a space organizer, isn’t it just asking them to help tidy up and organize? Jaq immediately corrects this commonly misunderstood perception. “A space organizer is not like a cleaner; it’s not just about one-sided cleaning and tidying up, and the client doesn’t need to be present. On the contrary, a space organizer requires the client to be fully involved throughout the process, as it is the client who spends a lot of time in that space, not the organizer, and they cannot always rely on other’s help.”

Therefore, with each new commission, the first step for the space organizer is not to immediately start organising, but to first meet with the client, engage in conversation to understand each other, and establish a relationship of trust based on mutual agreement. Once this trust is established, the space organizer will then personalize a suitable organising method for the client based on their understanding of the client. (Refer to the picture below)

“There are many different organizing methods, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Moreover, everyone has different lifestyle habits, so if you don’t find an organizing method that suits you, you’ll quickly revert back to your old habits.”

“Everyone has different goals. I once had a client who said he felt very stressed, so he wanted to find a space organizer to help tidy up his chaotic living space.”

“During each session of space organization, the greatest beneficiary is not the space organizer, but yourself. This is because through the process of organising, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself, access your life needs, attitudes towards possessions, and even find a sense of solace on a psychological level.”

 

 

Don’t know how to start? Begin with classification

Although organizing methods vary from person to person, Jaq also provides some more universal and common methods, allowing friends who want to start trying space organization to have some reference directions. “If you don’t know where to start, I suggest starting with the 6-Level Classification Method to categorize items, and then take the next actions.”

Each level of classification is based on the individual’s frequency and usage of items, from most commonly used to least used, and so on for categorization. Afterwards, create a unique ‘home’ for these items of different levels.

“The most frequently used items can be placed in areas along your most common pathways and most convenient locations, then gradually progressing to the least used items which can be stored in areas along the least travelled pathways and less convenient spaces. After establishing their respective ‘homes’, remember to put them back in place after each use.”

 

Give yourself time to figure out the pending items

It is worth discussing that for Level 6 items, if you are unsure about them and do not know their usefulness to you at the moment, we can allocate space in a box to store them, label them with an expiration date, and when the time comes, you must open the box to reassessing the value of these items to yourself.

“For example, the calculator purchased for math class during secondary school may no longer be used or used less frequently after graduation. If you are unsure if it will have any other use in the future, you can place it in the Level 6 box. For instance, set a deadline of 6 months later. When the time comes, ask yourself if you needed to use it during those 6 months. Or you can use phone to do calculations instead?”

After reassessing, if the Level 6 item is still useful to you, you can categorize it between Level 1 or 5, then return it to its designated “home”. Conversely, if these items are no longer useful to you, once prepared, you can proceed with letting them go.

“Letting go” doesn’t necessarily mean just discarding items; it can be treated as resource recycling, or they can be resold second-hand or even donated to give them a new purpose with a new owner.

In any case, the 6-level classification method provides a good reference point for friends who are looking to start organizing their space for the first time. However, organizing space is not a one-time solution to permanently solve the issue. Life requires developing good habits, regular tidying up and organising to maintain space, so that the problems will not happen always.

“Many people mistakenly believe that hiring a professional organizer for one session is enough. This is why I strongly recommend that clients must participate in the organising process because maintenance is also crucial. Even if the organizer is not present in the future, clients can independently tidy up and organize regularly.”

There are many methods of space organization, and in practical application, different needs and issues may arise depending on the individual. For example, when faced with sentimental items given by important people, how should they be classified and organized? When dealing with items left behind by deceased loved ones, what methods can be used? In the next PIETY BLOG, we will have the participation of registered and professional counsellor Tan Qin Ru to share more. The meeting of two different professions will continue to discuss topics such as creating a Memory Box, classification methods for items left behind by deceased loved ones, digitalize methods, creative re-creation of items left behind by the departed, and transcending material memory connections… (to be continued)

When a Space Organizer Meets a Counsellor (Part 1) – Short Video version

Editor's Note:

"Space organization" has gained popularity in recent years, partly due to its alignment with the new generation's emphasis on "environmental conservation". Storage, organization, and decluttering can be considered as one of the methods for individuals to address current issues. However, the key point lies in the initial mindset of consumption - whether there is a rational balance between our “needs” and “wants" for items, reducing the potential future accumulation of useless items and making maintenance work easier. By practising proactive pre-planning from the beginning, we can be prepared for the future. When items are organized and space is tidy, the extra space can be utilised to accommodate more meaningful things.

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Qing Ming 2024 https://xiao-en.com/qing-ming-2024/ Wed, 06 Mar 2024 02:00:01 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=7550

This year, the Qing Ming Festival falls on April 4th, while March 15th is known as “Chun-She.” Some families have already started preparations for tomb-sweeping and ancestral worship. For families who have loved ones who departed within 1 year, we encourage families to visit between March 6th and 14th for tomb-sweeping.

Xiao En Memorial Park remains open throughout the year! Families are welcome to visit in advance and pay respects to their ancestors. Thoughtful worship planning ensures a serene remembrance. Reflecting on the memories of the departed, we realize that our connection transcends life and death, bound by the everlasting ties of blood and emotions.

Qing Ming Prayer Schedule

As Qing Ming approaches, we advise you to avoid peak prayer periods or visit your loved ones’ resting places 10 days before or after Qing Ming to avoid crowds.

The weather alternates between hot and rainy recently, so remember to bring an umbrella and hat when visiting! Make sure to wash your hands frequently and drink more water.

  1. When is Qing Ming Festival?
    • Chun-She is on 15 March 2024 (Families with loved ones who departed within 1 year are encouraged to visit between March 6-14 for tomb-sweeping.)
    • Qing Ming is on 4 April 2024

  2. When is good time for prayer?
    • From 6:00am – 3:00pm

  3. When Xiao En Memorial Park open for prayer?
    • Daily : 7:00am – 5:00pm
    • Peak Weekends : 6:00am – 5:00pm (23/3, 24/3, 30/3, 31/3, 6/4, 7/4, 13/4, 14/4)

  4. Can I pre-order the EC 2024 package?

Praying Steps

Xiao En Temple Guidelines

During peak weekend, only the Tua Pek Kong shrine is open; other shrines are closed.

During peak weekend, please hand over offering items to the staff for burning.

We suggest one (1) family representative to light incense, minimizing congestion and crowd gatherings.

We encourage one incense stick and minimal offerings per person to reduce waste.

Clean up before leaving.

Simplify & Reduce – Refined Remembrances

Express reverence and good wishes for ancestors in a low-carbon, thrifty, and eco-friendly manner while inheriting the spirit of  “honouring the departed with care”.

As Qing Ming Festival approaches, Xiao En gently reminds you to:

Carpool to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions.

Follow staff instructions for a pleasant visit during peak hours.

Simplify offerings and use the designated area for burning.

Express sincere affection by offering fresh flowers.

Be aware that fireworks and firecrackers are strictly prohibited.

Clean up and dispose of litter after paying respects.

Praying Steps

Xiao En Temple Guidelines

During peak weekend, only the Tua Pek Kong shrine is open; other shrines are closed.
During peak weekend, please hand over offering items to the staff for burning.
We suggest one (1) family representative to light incense, minimizing congestion and crowd gatherings.
We encourage one incense stick and minimal offerings per person to reduce waste.
Clean up before leaving.

 

Simplify & Reduce - Refined Remembrances

Express reverence and good wishes for ancestors in a low-carbon, thrifty, and eco-friendly manner while inheriting the spirit of "honouring the departed with care".

As Qing Ming Festival approaches, Xiao En gently reminds you to:

Carpool to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions.

Follow staff instructions for a pleasant visit during peak hours.
Simplify offerings and use the designated area for burning.
Express sincere affection by offering fresh flowers.
Be aware that fireworks and firecrackers are strictly prohibited.

Clean up and dispose of litter after paying respects.

 

 

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Life Practitioners https://xiao-en.com/life-practitioners/ Wed, 28 Feb 2024 02:00:52 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=7334

In the hustle and bustle of this world, there is a group of people who gently take on every task, silently nurturing the final journey of life.

“The Life Practitioner” is a warm title we bestow upon funeral service front liners.

Family Care Consultants, Clinical Care Specialists, Bereavement Care Professionals, Cremation Specialists, and Grief Counsellors represent caregivers across the five service levels of funeral care. They are not just fulfilling tasks, but also practitioners of life education, embodying the noblest concept of “life influencing life” through their actions.

In their work, it’s not about a group of people doing the same thing together, but about collectively utilising their expertise, complementing each other’s shortcomings, and striving towards a common goal. Their tasks may vary, but their objective is unified – to bring dignity and comfort to every end of life.

Not only do they play important roles in the field of funeral service, but they also openly unreservedly share their personal life stories, reflecting objective truths around them. They narrate various emotional states in a self-deprecating manner, with a touch of light-heartedness. Though tinged with a hint of melancholy, they swiftly compose themselves before emotions overwhelm them with a touch of dark humour. They share the delicate sincerity hidden beneath a stoic and professional exterior.

They carry with them regrets that make people’s faces pale at the mention of them, as well as beautiful daily life anecdotes, and share life experiences in various campuses. They also participate in TEDx events, Eslite Forum community talks, and have even been invited to international sharing platforms to share their journey with local industry partners, helping both others and themselves along the way.

Every public sharing is a raw presentation of emotion, as they deeply understand mutual influence in life brings healing and warmth. Their stories hold the deepest reverence for life and the most authentic interpretation of human nature.

Life practitioners, they bridge two worlds, gently providing companionship and solace to the living, and giving dignity and rest to the departed, ultimately softening the passage of time and warming hearts.

“We’re grateful to have you!”

“Wholehearted Dedication. Without Reservation.”

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“Red and White” In The Realm Of Life’s Space https://xiao-en.com/red-and-white-in-the-realm-of-lifes-space/ Fri, 26 Jan 2024 02:00:12 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=7109

To fulfil each farewell entrusted to them, Xiao En Centre is a ” year-round, non-stop ” space dedicated to life. Therefore, the life practitioners who fulfil their duties on the front lines of bringing closure to life must seamlessly rotate being on duty to provide continuous service. As the Chinese New Year approaches, they remain diligent and steadfast to their responsibilities and give their all. However, this space for life has not forgotten the meaning of traditional holidays. It hides clever touches in every corner, quietly revealing the warmth of the Lunar New Year, allowing busy Life Practitioners and staffs to take a break and feel the warmth of spring. It also warms every person who visits the Xiao En Centre, providing a sense of healing to each individual.

Red and white are colors that seemingly contrasting especially in Chinese culture, but the interplay of ” red and white ” can harmoniously coexist in this multifunctional space for life because of the preservation of culture and the warmth of human nature. In the year 2024, the Year of the Dragon, let’s together reflect on the “red and white” moments of the Xiao En Centre throughout the years.

“The Qin Lounge” café is a great place for guests at the Xiao En Centre and is also a popular spot with a high flow of people. Because of its relaxed and cozy atmosphere, it offers a delightful combination of snacks, desserts, and fragrant coffee. Occasionally, there is even a pianist accompanying the ambiance. Now, with the addition of these bright red accessories, it seems to gently remind you that “the New Year is approaching.”

Xiao En Centre is a versatile space. In 2008, an “Annual Banquet” was held in the hall to thank all colleagues for their hard work and celebrate the Lunar New Year together.

Exciting both inside and outside, the fusion of Eastern and Western elements in red creates a space for colleagues to connect and bond.

The Spring Festival is incomplete without gifts. Each design, packaging, and thoughtful detail is a masterpiece crafted with care and sincerity, expressing our care and blessings to family, partners, and colleagues.

Innovative designs, combining both hardware and software, includes electronic posters in the venue, conveying the spirit of spring and well wishes.

In addition to the decorations for the eve Chinese New Year, on the fifteenth day, the logistics space is still filled with a festive atmosphere because the staff on duty are preparing to celebrate the Chap Goh Mei together.

The beauty of “lou sang” lies in the moment when everyone shares a common goal and collectively makes good wishes, praying for a year of peace and prosperity ahead.

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Year 2024 1st Life Education Tour: Children Embrace Life In The Face Of Death As Innovative Experience https://xiao-en.com/20240111-life-education/ Mon, 22 Jan 2024 02:00:40 +0000 https://xiao-en.com/?p=7070

Perhaps, with the continuous growth of life education in China, children have gained a certain understanding and imagination of “embracing life in the face of death” before coming to the Xiao En Centre for learning. Therefore, in this first group of 2024, children are even more enthusiastic and eager to learn, actively seeking to personally experience the process of a fulfilling life.

“I’ve heard the sharing of 5 Life Practitioners before, which made me really want to visit Xiao En Centre to learn.”
“It’s a brave and great deed to donate one’s body for medical purposes, truly a silent but excellent teacher.”
“I never knew that there were stories behind every funeral ceremony.”
“Even though it’s about death, it makes me want to spend more time with my family.”
“Death makes me value time more, cherishing each day as if it’s the last.”

Life education cannot be fleeting like the brilliance of fireworks. It requires a constant and gradual nurturing to gradually see the subtle growth. In 2024, let us continue to uphold the goodness of the past and extend even more warmth.

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