"Looking at the Moon and Missing the Faraway" by Zhang Jiuling of the Tang Dynasty
The bright moon rises over the sea, and we share this moment across the vast world. Lovers resent the long night, and thoughts of each other arise all night long.
"The Mid-Autumn Moon" by Yan Shu of the Song Dynasty
Ten rounds of frosty shadows pass through the courtyard's ginkgo tree; on this night, the traveler stands alone in a corner. It's not that the jade rabbit (the moon goddess) has no regrets, but the cold moonlight and lonely osmanthus flowers make her feel lonely.
"West River Moon · Life Is Just a Big Dream" by Su Shi of the Song Dynasty
Wine is cheap, but I often worry about few guests. The bright moon is often obscured by clouds. Who will share this lonely light on the Mid-Autumn night? I raise my glass with sorrow and look north wistfully.
"Looking at the Moon on the 15th Night and Sending Thoughts to Du Langzhong" by Wang Jian of the Tang Dynasty
The courtyard is white with moonlight, and crows rest on the trees. Cold dew silently wets the osmanthus flowers. Tonight, everyone looks at the bright moon, but who knows whose autumn thoughts will fall?
How to Spend the Mid-Autumn Festival Without Going Home
Eating Together with Fellow Townsmen or Close Friends
If you are far from home and have fellow townspeople or close friends, you can have a meal together, which can help strengthen your friendship.
Video Calling with Parents
Although you cannot go home, you may miss your family very much. Even though you are living away from home, there's always a sense of missing genuine family love. You can use your phone or computer to video call your parents and chat with them.
Calling Relatives and Friends
You can call your relatives and friends to greet them, ask about their recent situations, and see how they're doing, bringing them holiday greetings.
Send Gifts to Parents
You can buy local specialties and send them to your parents, or purchase some daily necessities for them and send them back.
If you don't have time, you can certainly spend the Mid-Autumn Festival without going home.
If you have the conditions to go home, it's best. If not, don't force yourself, because in life, eight or nine out of ten things don't go as planned. But you must keep your parents in your heart and call them often. Don't just make a formal call; don't say a few words and hang up. Be patient and have a real conversation with your parents.
