Within a few minutes, I was entering one of the grandeurs of historic Beijing. The Imperial Ancestor Temple (‘taimiao’), constructed in 1420 during Emperor Yongle’s reign. It represents an amazing complex of Ming-era architecture that has remained basically in its original design. My visit coincided with the first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year. Crowds were heading to the nearby Forbidden City, but as I stood amidst groves of ancient cypress trees, I was almost alone. I wandered slowly through gates in crimson-painted walls topped by yellow tiles. Regularly, within vast, silent courtyards, I would stop to photograph and consider the magnificence of the structures. A most sacred site, the main temple building sits on top of a three-tiered marble terrace. So often I have spent moments there simply sitting quietly while absorbing the incredible feel, the seemingly timeless legacy of Imperial Beijing. Although few visitors, I was receiving friendly seasonal greetings of “xin nian kuaile” (Happy New Year!) from any staff members who saw me.

Spring Festival, a time for families coming together. Indeed, over breakfast every morning I noticed how many of the guests were extended family groups. A tradition that has noticeably continued throughout my many years in China.