Also, sunscreen is very good for you.
Selamat Hari Raya everyone, this one's for you. Please enjoy this occasion even though we can't make an extra public holiday out of it. Stay away from the lontong if you know you're a bowl away from hypertension, eat all the good stuff if you're still young. Smoking is still bad, but if you must do it outside your uncle's house, away from the little children. If you love your aunt tell her her food has always been good, but if you dislike her then pretend to choke and die from all the extra coconut and salt.
Don't ever check the green packets in front of the people who give them to you - do it later downstairs or somewhere far away, take notes on the different amounts so you'll remember to give the same to their children in the future. Remember: karma kicks ass to those who deserve it. For the rest of us who still have time to repent, say sorry, and mean it. Don't put too much make up if you're only 13, don't also put too much make up if you're 53. If that kebaya doesn't fit today, chances are it won't fit tomorrow. If you have a new car that's really great news, but if someone needs a lift then please don't hesitate.
Also. Whichever school your children go to, be thankful and proud of them. Sing all the traditional Hari Raya songs you want, because in ten years techno might be in and that would really suck. If you're having your period wear dark clothes, or wear two sanitary pads, or don't go out at all. Trust me, you wouldn't want your cute cousin to remember you That Way. Never finish a whole bottle of cookies yourself. Share with cousins and finish them together. It is better to throw the paper wrappers all over the floor, just to test someone's hospitality. Try not to spill too many drinks. If you know you're hopelessly clumsy stay away from carpets, clothes, and your frail grandmother who has a tendency to slip and fall.
Hari Raya comes only once (sometimes twice) a year. So forgive, forget, and mean every bit you say.
Hugs and Kisses,
Fariza.