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Nov

Storytelling in Miniature

by Meredith Mullins on November 5, 2018

Giant Panda eating peaches on a postage stamp from Mongolia, proving postage stamps show something about a country's cultural heritage and traditions. (Image © Gingwa/iStock.)

What does a postage stamp say about its country?
© Gingwa/iStock

Cultural Heritage and Traditions of the Mighty (Yet Tiny) Postage Stamp

As the popularity of “snail mail” dwindles in our digital age, it seems sadly plausible that some people today have never used a postage stamp. And that’s a pity.

Postage stamps of the world tell fascinating stories. And stamps—like the design of paper currency noted in an OIC Moments story last month—reveal much about a country’s cultural heritage and traditions.

Postal services have exploded with creativity to offer stamps that people look forward to adding to their letters and cards—like an artistic bow on a heartfelt package. Read more...

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Cultural Heritage & Traditions/Cultural Symbols/Worldwide Sites

Oct

Cultural Traditions of the Japanese Tea Ceremony

by Meredith Mullins on October 15, 2018

Japanese woman presents a tea caddy for the Japanese tea ceremony, showing the cultural traditions of Japan. (Image © Meredith Mullins.)

The Way of Tea
© Meredith Mullins

Ichi-go Ichi-e: Life Lessons

Let the tea be simple and your hospitality heartfelt.—Sen no Rikyu*

When I entered the tea house, I suddenly felt reverential—a guest of some greater spirit.

The simple wooden walls, tatami floor, and perfect Ikebana arrangement created a sanctuary so serene that the only sounds were that of the birds in the garden and the simmering water for the tea.

I met Kozue, a student who was dressed in a silk kimono of muted tones of lilac and plum that had been passed through generations of her family. I asked her how long she has been studying the Japanese tea ceremony. Read more...

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Cultural Heritage & Traditions/Japan/Life Lessons

Oct

A Secret World of Discovery

by Meredith Mullins on October 1, 2018

Colorful historical scene from a Costa Rican banknote, showing the cultural heritage and traditions of a country. (Image © Meredith Mullins.)

What can we learn from this work of art?
Image photo by Meredith Mullins

Cultural Heritage and Traditions Revealed

Countries reveal their cultural heritage and traditions through art, dress, storytelling, history, heroes, architecture, monuments, museums, language, music, products, and leaders.

They are also proud to present their natural treasures such as flora, fauna, and other gifts of nature.

Great wall of China on Chinese banknote, showing cultural heritage and traditions of China. (Image © Meredith Mullins.)

Natural and human-made treasures
Image photo by Meredith Mullins

What do these two images have in common? Read more...

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Cultural Heritage & Traditions/Worldwide Sites

World Views: