1. Preparations
Somehow, though the sun may have shone just as brightly on the previous day, and indeed the whole year round,
and all things in nature bear the same aspect, yet it all seems different. It is the spirit of the New Year.
Then, too, the busy workers, who have been preparing nearly a month ahead for this season, have laid aside the
bamboo duster and broom, and a general quiet and happiness seems to reign over the Land of Sunrise. The first of
January is the only day in the year on which all stores are closed, as the merchants do not recognize the Sabbath
or other holidays. This day is a universal holiday, and many, many happy families rise very early in the morning
to worship the first rising sun of the New Year.
