Text by Wang Yuhua & Heiyuxia

The Winter Solstice, also known as the Southern Solstice, Winter Festival or Sub-year, carries both natural and cultural significance. It is one of the important solar terms and a traditional festival for ancestor worship among Chinese people. An ancient saying goes that “the Winter Solstice is as important as the Lunar New Year”.

At noon on December 21, the joint branch event “Warmth on Winter Solstice, Love Fills Good‑Ark” was held at Mingde Hall of the main factory and the Happy Canteen at the headquarters respectively.

The Winter Solstice marks the start of the cold “Nine Periods”. From this day onward, temperatures keep dropping. There is a folk saying: “Skip dumplings on Winter Solstice, and your ears may freeze off.” Ears are vulnerable to frostbite in cold weather, so eating dumplings shaped like ears is regarded as a sincere blessing for loved ones.

Chopping vegetables, washing red dates and preparing dumpling fillings — everyone was busy and cheerful. They wrapped dumplings together, chatted and shared happy stories. Though it was cold outside, the room was filled with warmth. Smiles lit up every face, just like a big loving family.

After an hour of teamwork, the tables were covered with neat rows of plump dumplings, like little silver ingots. Everyone beamed with joy. On Winter Solstice, steaming dumplings bring the most heartwarming comfort. Loved ones gather quietly under soft lights.

Some colleagues came up with a fun idea: hiding red dates inside dumplings for a surprise gift game. “Don’t miss it! Find a dumpling with a red date inside and win a prize!” Even our leader was drawn to this joyful game and took part in the surprise draw.

The Winter Solstice is a time of longing. Under pale snow, simple life unfolds. Good fortune follows, and blessings of longevity linger. As frosty winter arrives, all things wait for warm spring. The cycle of seasons mirrors the journey of our lives. The Winter Solstice rivals the New Year, a sweet little family reunion on earth.