Every human was stirring, and I'll tell you why:
It's the one time of year the Chinese can see
parents and children and far flung family.
So the airports are clogged, and the train stations packed
The highways are jammed; indeed, it's a fact
that these travels are the world's biggest migration
as millions of Chinese traverse their great nation.
And what about those who stay in their homes?
The ones who don't travel, with no need to roam?
They also are stirring, they also are frantic
With a heart filled with joy, yet still twinged with panic
As they cook, and they clean, and red envelopes they stuff
With cash for their underlings; I hope it's enough!
These envelopes ward off evil spirits they say,
Who knows if it's true? At least someone will pay!
If envelopes don't work, and those spirits still haunt
Fear not! There's another way to flaunt
Our victory over a netherworld's foe:
We buy and ignite firecrackers to blow!
On New Year's Eve, after the year's biggest meal
The Chinese set off resounding peals
That rock the city all through the night
In order to put evil spirits to fright!
And what about me, the foreigner, the "laowai?"
Will I celebrate like the Chinese in Shanghai?
Oh no, my friend. I've learned it's wise to lay low.
To stay in my home and avoid transit woes.
Remember? It's the world's LARGEST MIGRATION.
No red envelope is worth that irritation.
So I'll sip my tea, and put plugs in my ears.
As I wish the Chinese an Auspicious New Year!