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his was a fun, short and interesting read in regards to the Chinese New Year, which is celebrated not only in mainland China, but in most Asian countries around the world. It is typically held in early February, and runs almost throughout the whole month of February with vast celebrations, record-setting migrations of movement of humanity (over half 1 billion people), returning to the home towns and villages for so many of the people to pay respect to family, and their elders, and also a lot of cultural traditions such as the exchanging of the “red envelope”, eating of dumplings, setting off of magnificent firework displays, terrific meals that are enjoyed by family and friends alike, and just a wild fantastic time.
The book observed such traditions as a newborn enters into this world already “one years of age”, and then about a week after the Chinese New Year rolls around, the baby picks up another year of age, and then from then on, the birthday is celebrated on the actual birth date. So, by the time a Chinese baby is one years old (and Western standard), and Chinese culture, the baby could be actually counted as three years of age. Amazing!
Also, the exchanging of the “red envelope” which is typically stuffed with cash and given amongst friends and family is an ancient tradition that continues to this day. Also, there are proper ways in giving and receiving the red envelope, such as holding both corners of it with both hands with a slight bow. And receiving in the same manner.
I spend a lot of time in China over the last several years, so I can attest to everything in this book being absolutely true. The fireworks that shoot off continually during the Chinese New Year celebration, are the type of fireworks that are usually allowed only in the hands of professionals in the Western countries, but in China, just about everyone has the ability to set off large fireworks.
As I mentioned, the book is a short and fun read, so it won’t take you long to get through it, but you’ll pick up tons of information about the Chinese New Year and what all the commotion is about.
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
1-800-745-3161 (voicemail & fax)
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
