Everyday Life
How can differing folk customs be understood in their own contexts?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
Folk practice need not have only the approach familiar to you. Some welcome deities on New Year's Eve, others on the first or fourth day, each following a custom. First understand your teacher's and faith's approach as reference. One method need not prescribe rules for every household.
Color meanings also change. As a child I heard parents say black was inauspicious, so disliked wearing it. Later Sheng Zhen Men's Fu Mo uniforms were black, representing protection and strength for us. Once I understood that meaning, I no longer regarded black as unlucky. Black-and-white stripes are similar: if not a shared taboo, one folk commentator's claim cannot mean everyone wearing them fares badly. This is my understanding of custom and meaning, not a color fixing fortune.
Some customs relate to busy and quiet periods in life. I have described the third New Year day as a chance for a little rest after the bustle from New Year's Eve through the second day. Understanding meaning and differences is clearer than remembering only one rule. Past event fees and announcements in recordings must also be understood at their time, not treated as current arrangements.