One of my friend’s father passed away 2 days ago and I went to his funeral last night. Now this is a Chinese style funeral lasting for 5 days.

It’s customary for relatives and friends to offer their last respects during these days. There are variations of 3, 5, 7 days funerals, depending on the time needed.

Peanuts
Peanuts are always served during funerals for people like me who don’t talk much. All I do is help them finish up the peanuts served on the tables. I usually end up with a slight sore throat after I leave the funeral. But of course they also offer water, food and sweets … depending on the host.

Pek Kim
Pek Kim or “White Gold” is a contribution guests offer to the family. You can of course offer shawls with your name imprinted on it. This time around, I shared a shawl with some friends depicting a large tiger walking down from a hill.

Pot
Depending on your host, it’s likely that they offer some form of entertainment to keep the guests amused. Gambling is a big part and parcel of the Chinese funeral. It helps kill time and attracts money hungry policemen.

Though no gambling, we were offered pot instead at a secluded spot right between the funeral parlor and countless rows of cemeteries. Now that’s what you call hospitality!

Always remember the 3 Ps if you want to be a good host