Perhaps the issue here is how to show appreciation - through a practical or symbolic gift? For those who prefer the "hongbao" idea, I guess the assumption is that the recipients would prefer a tangible reward for their service. On the other hand, those in the "flower" camp believe that this campaign is really a symbolic gesture on the part of the organisers.

At the end of the day perhaps both sides could be right? I don't think that just because someone is in a low-paying job, he/she would certainly prefer a hongbao to a flower. Being poor doesn't necessarily mean being discontented or in dire want. Besides, this campaign's objective isn't to alleviate poverty.

But all's said, this is still my personal opinion. Guess the best people to ask would be the recipients themselves.

Hmm! Can we look at the bigger picture? Maybe flowers are not the best thing but still we should appreciate the organizers effort.

Just because the first recipient was a cleaner does not mean that we only appreciate cleaners. You can also show your appreciation to say, the policeman that patrols the MRT station or even your kind physician that do not overcharge you for every complain you bring to him/her.

So lets look beyond the cash and thank the organizers for their effort and maybe, just maybe, suggest something else that everyone can appreciate, for the next campaign other than cash.

As it is said charity begins at home, so lets us show some 'kindness' to the organizers too.

I support the the Kindness Movement but feel that giving flowers is not practical. The recipient probably goes home by public transport -how is she to lug this bunch of flowers? Possibly her home is small - where could she place the flowers? She probably is more stressed out after the initial euphoria. A specially designed Ang-pow with cash would be more appropriate and this kindness gesture appreciated, especially to these low-paid employees. At least they could go home with happy thoughts instead of worrying what to do with the flowers. Definitely the happiest people in this act is the supplier of the flowers.