I remember when I went to a local Shinto shrine with my dad two years ago. Hatsumoude, or the first visit of the year, is an important ritual in Japan. After wishing the best of luck and prosperity for the new year, we tried Omikuji, which is a fortune-telling custom.

Typically, Omikuji predicts your fortune based on 5 to 6 different levels; Daikichi means great fortune. Chukichi means mid-level fortune. Shokichi is just a little fortune. Suekichi is a last one: which is typically considered not much fortunate.

You can also get Kyo, which means bad luck. It is very rare to draw Kyo, especially on a new year’s day, but that was what I drew.

The prediction was not so favourable. “You must be careful about your health”, “Behave yourself”, “Be patient”, “Don’t expect too much”. I was really disappointed and saddened.

Then, dad asked me what I drew. I told him that I have got Kyo: bad luck. He laughed, but he was soon worried as he noticed that I was about to cry.

“Don’t worry. It is just a fortune-telling game.” He said.

“But it IS fortune-telling. It says I won’t have much luck in 2016.” I insisted.

“Hmm. You are worrying too much.”
“I do worry. Last year was very tough for me. I’ve had enough of it”. 

During most of 2015, I was truly stuck. I struggled to get a job, and there was no sign of a Prince Charming. The last thing I was hoping for is another challenging year. 

After thinking for a moment, dad pulled out his wallet.

“Go and try again.” and he tucked a note in my hand. 

“What? No, it is a waste of money.” I objected.

“No, it’s not. Just go and get another one!” He smiled.

I went back to the Omikuji counter again and paid for another fortune strip. I was not too sure I would be allowed a second turn. I worried the Miko attendant may think I was becoming desperate. She didn’t seem to care at all. 

She handed me a bamboo cylinder filled with drawing lots as she did the first time. I prayed for better luck, and then pulled a new Omikuji. I got a different number. Phew!

“Here is your fortune. Good luck with your new year.” 

The Miko smiled and handed me a folded strip of paper. I opened the strip and read the fortune: Daikichi… Great fortune.

“I got Daikichi!” I ran to dad.

“Did you?! Well, lucky you!” He said with glee.

“Thank you, for letting me try again,” I said to him.

“Don’t mention it. It is always better to have a hopeful start to a new year.” He said philosophically.

Those are the times I feel really close to my dad. It has not always been an easy relationship.

So now, every New Year’s omikuji, I will try a second time if I don’t like my luck.

Whenever I feel pessimistic on my uncertain future, I always remember the second chance.

Try: try again, until you get Daikichi you were hoping to get.