CARiNG’s CNY video reminds us what “home” really means, and it’s not about a place

[This is a sponsored post with CARiNG Pharmacy.] 

As a working adult juggling deadlines, bills, and the constant hustle for financial stability, I’ve come to realise how tough it is to gather for dinners with loved ones. It’s not just my problem; I know many others who feel the same way. 

The pressures of work and the relentless pursuit of success often leave little room for family time. 

As Chinese New Year approaches, the warmth of reunion dinners takes centre stage in households across the globe. Yet, not everyone gets to experience this cherished tradition in the same way. 

CARiNG Pharmacy’s latest CNY video captures this poignant reality, shedding light on the struggles some families face while reminding us of the true meaning of togetherness.

Experience the video in full below:

Since starting their annual CNY video tradition in 2022, CARiNG has consistently aimed to celebrate the togetherness of family. This year’s instalment is no exception, delivering a heartfelt story that would resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to balance work and family.

The hustle never stops

The three-minute video opens with a scene that feels all too familiar: a family working hard to make ends meet. The father, a shopkeeper, anxiously watches the hours tick by on New Year’s Eve, worried about the unsold mandarin oranges piling up in his store. 

“If these oranges don’t sell today, they’ll lose their freshness,” he said, clearly torn between his responsibilities as a provider and his desire to be home for the reunion dinner.

How many of us have worked late nights, skipped meals, or postponed family time because we were chasing financial stability? 

The father’s situation is a reflection of the sacrifices so many families make just to stay afloat, especially with today’s rising living costs.

A family’s love in action

Back at home, the rest of his family is busy preparing for the reunion dinner. The mother and children’s banter while cooking lightens the mood, contrasting the father’s solitary efforts at the shop. 

“Less oil, less salt, less sugar,” the daughter reminded her brother, ensuring the meal aligns with their father’s dietary needs. It’s a simple yet powerful moment, showcasing how love is often expressed through small yet thoughtful actions.

The cooking scene feels warm and intimate, evoking memories of family kitchens filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. But there’s still an underlying sadness to the scene as the family prepares without the father.

The turning point comes when, instead of waiting at home, the family decides to bring the reunion dinner to the shop. Their arrival takes the father by surprise.

“Home is where the whole family is together,” the mother said, her words carrying a message that resonated deeply.

As the family shares their meal amidst the stacks of unsold mandarin oranges, the atmosphere shifts from sombre to joyful. 

Watching this scene made me think about how often we get caught up in the “where” and “what” of celebrations, forgetting that it’s the “who” that truly matters. At the end of the day, it’s not about the setting or the spread, rather it’s the people who make the moment special.

A timeless message

CARiNG Pharmacy’s video ends with a poignant message: “Home is wherever you are.” It’s a statement that lingers as the background fades, encouraging viewers to reflect on the essence of family and togetherness.

In a world where the pressures of daily life often overshadow the importance of connection, this video serves as a gentle nudge to cherish the moments that truly matter. 

Hand in hand with the launch of this heartfelt video is CARiNG’s 88 Huat Huat Megasales, running now until February 11, 2025. 

The sale offers discounts on haircare, body care, beauty products, and daily essentials ranging from 18% to 88% off for the second purchase of the same product. It’s a timely opportunity for families to stock up on essentials while enjoying significant savings.

So, this Chinese New Year, let’s take a moment to appreciate the love and effort that goes into keeping our families together. Whether you’re having your reunion dinner at home, at a shop, or even over a video call, remember: wherever your family is, that’s where home will always be.

Featured Image Credit: CARiNG Pharmacy YouTube