08.08.08.... Let's celebrate!Yes, this is the day considered by most Chinese to be an auspicious day; maybe one of the most auspicious day of the year. The number "8" sounds like 'prosperity' or 'richness' in Chinese; thus meaning good luck or great fortune. No wonder the Beijing Olympics will kick-off the opening ceremony on this day, exactly at 8.00pm sharp. I'm sure, billion of viewer across the globe will glue themselves to the idiot box in what being termed as the most expensive and extravagant show of the century!
Most Chinese have a strong believe system, inherited from their forefathers. We believe in anything that sounds good to the ears, will bring good luck. Thus it's no secret the number '8' is one of our favourite numbers while the number '4' is a big no no! Why? The word '4' sounded like death in Chinese..... Big Chinese tycoons are always willing to spend big money to get their coveted car plates, possibly '8888'.
So with such a heavy investment to organise the Olympics, the Chinese Government had to break tradition, that is to have the opening ceremony other than a weekend. Take no risk, since the biggest sporting event in the world has to be a big success. Anything that can help, will help...
However, it's interesting to note that this year, the year of the Rat in the Chinese calendar is far from smooth sailing for China. First to hit is the damaging snow storm, stranding million of home going Chinese at railway stations during the biggest annual exodus of human being; Chinese New Year. Then, the unrest in Tibet where Beijing got unwanted spotlight focusing on alleged violation of human rights. Then came the deadly Sichuan earthquake that shook the whole world. Ironically the Sichuan disaster happened 80 days before 08.08.08!
So, I hope whatever misfortune that hit China will be cleansed once the Games kicks off. China has suffered enough for the year. It's time to rejoice and celebrate humanity.
08.08.08..... Let the Games begin!
Most Chinese have a strong believe system, inherited from their forefathers. We believe in anything that sounds good to the ears, will bring good luck. Thus it's no secret the number '8' is one of our favourite numbers while the number '4' is a big no no! Why? The word '4' sounded like death in Chinese..... Big Chinese tycoons are always willing to spend big money to get their coveted car plates, possibly '8888'.
So with such a heavy investment to organise the Olympics, the Chinese Government had to break tradition, that is to have the opening ceremony other than a weekend. Take no risk, since the biggest sporting event in the world has to be a big success. Anything that can help, will help...
However, it's interesting to note that this year, the year of the Rat in the Chinese calendar is far from smooth sailing for China. First to hit is the damaging snow storm, stranding million of home going Chinese at railway stations during the biggest annual exodus of human being; Chinese New Year. Then, the unrest in Tibet where Beijing got unwanted spotlight focusing on alleged violation of human rights. Then came the deadly Sichuan earthquake that shook the whole world. Ironically the Sichuan disaster happened 80 days before 08.08.08!
So, I hope whatever misfortune that hit China will be cleansed once the Games kicks off. China has suffered enough for the year. It's time to rejoice and celebrate humanity.
08.08.08..... Let the Games begin!
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