In Chinese culture, the number 8 is considered more lucky than the number 7, and the people will go out of their way to choose this number over anything else. Not surprisingly, 88 is twice as lucky, and the more 8s you have present, the more fortunate you’ll be in life, so there’s no coincidence that the Olympic opening ceremony was chosen to take place today on 8-8-08.

Very much like the presidential race this year, these worldwide games only happen every 4 years, so how could you not be excited about it? Some fellow friends are only more interested in the medal count, which is fine if you support your country but the real excitement for me will be the story lines behind the action and the drama of a good competition. I’m looking forward to so many events but in particular basketball, gymnastics, swimming, track and soccer.