Not a reunion, but an annual humiliation: Chinese woman smashes plates & throws red packet on ground during reunion dinner

In the midst of the revelry and reunion, some of the younger people in China have raised questions on the purpose of the reunion dinner, as well as the festivities in general.

A BBC China feature shone the spotlight on some younger folks who felt the long-held tradition of heading back to their family home drained their batteries more than recharged them.

Argued about career

One woman, who had taken a flight home to Shenzhen, detailed how disastrous it had been.

She said she had argued with her father on career matters.

Things got heated, and she ended up smashing some dishes, throwing two red packets on the ground (out of filial piety), packing her luggage and flying back to Shanghai the next morning.

She told the BBC that her parents try to control her life and give unsolicited advice.

She said she no longer understands the concept of family reunion, saying this was not a reunion, but an "annual humiliation".

This sentiment has gained traction online during this time of year, with many sharing their own tales of family tension.

Argued over relationship

Another story shared with BBC featured a more relationship-centric gripe.

The woman had broken up with her boyfriend of three years, it was reported.

Not only did her family not show concern, they chastised her, saying that no one would want her after she already had premarital sex.

She fell into depression, and her therapist advised her to cut the source of negativity that was affecting her, namely her family.

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