New Year’s Prosperity
Dear Dr. Per Cap:
We’re pretty tapped out from Christmas. What’s an inexpensive way to celebrate New Years?
Signed,
Trying to be Thrifty
Dear Thrifty:
My spouse is from a southeastern tribe that takes pride in good old fashioned southern style home cooking. I love her New Years routine that’s based on a tradition shared by many folks in the south.
Every January 1st she cooks black eyed peas and collard greens for good luck and prosperity.
The peas represent coins and the greens represent paper money with the belief that eating these foods on New Year’s Day brings wealth in the coming year. Naturally I indulge in generous helpings of both while watching the Rose Bowl on the couch. If the lure of financial prosperity isn’t enough incentive, the health benefits of a leafy green vegetable paired with nutrient rich legumes is an added bonus for my aging dad bod.
Find satisfaction in keeping it simple this New Year.
A delicious home cooked meal and a relaxing day enjoyed with friends and family is a good substitute for pricey party foods, adult beverages, and fireworks. Board games, puzzles, and crafts are also a great way to celebrate the holiday. And don’t forget the music.
Some of my favorite holiday memories were spent at my aunt’s house where my cousin played piano while relatives from ages eight to 80 sat around singing carols. From New Year’s dances at Pueblos in the southwest to sobriety pow wows across Indian Country, many Native communities and urban areas offer family friendly cultural events from December 31st through January 1st. Check them out.
Wishing you a Happy New Year and a big helping of your favorite good luck food!
Funded by First Nations with support from the FINRA Investor Education Foundation, it's important to note that the content provided does not constitute professional or financial advice, and Dr. Per Cap is not a licensed investment advisor. Questions can be directed to Dr. Per Cap at [email protected].
"I sincerely hope my work inspires others as we continue to foster economic empowerment through education, innovation and self-reliance for both present and future generations.”
Shawn Spruce, Champion of Financial and Investor Education in Native Communities, Host of Native America Calling
