The wise words of Lao Tsu

*This too will pass * When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be * When you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold on to * Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage

Thursday, October 21, 2010

The China Experience

Life has been a flurry of activity lately. As I get ready for Mum and Dad coming to visit, cleaning, rearranging and making it all comfortable, I know that (as it must be for everyone that visits real China) it will be a life changing experience for them. My Mum has of course visited before(during my first year here) so she is prepared somewhat for China (if that is at all possible :-) Dad on the other hand will experience a way of life like he has never seen before. The food, the people, the lifestyle all drastically different. It all hits you when you land ((we're not in Kansas anymore Toto :-) The language barrier instantly becomes a problem as you try and find your way around Guangzhou airport which has a serious lack of any English signage, try and find something resembling a cup of coffee and a sandwich and then try and actually order it....then find your way to your small Chinese connecting flight....It's definitely an adventure :-) Of course all these things just make it more amazing and character building. Once here, wondering around and observing life in a Yangtze river city is never dull and being able to show my parents some Chinese customs and pastimes and many new experiences will be so much fun.
China throws me challenges day after day after day. It has made me stronger and given me confidence by sometimes making me feel very weak and vulnerable. I hate it and I love it at the same time.
I recommend it to anyone and everyone who really wants to see and experience a whole different world to the one in which they have grown accustomed to.

5 comments:

Sibyl - alternaview said...

This is the 2nd recommendation I have received in the last 2 weeks to visit China. Usually when something continues to come to you as a recommendation over and over again ... it means you should probably pay attention :) Sounds like you are having a great time. Thanks for the recommendation and hope you have a great visit with your parents.

Unknown said...

Thanks Sibyl, I will enjoy precious time with my family :-)
Yes, It's funny how different pathways can start to illuminate to make you take notice.
I have to say I always really enjoy reading your work. Thanks for putting great thoughts out there to think about.

maybe said...

I'm appreciate your writing skill.Please keep on working hard.^^

Mara-all-seasons said...

I visited Hongkong a few years ago...we sneaked around corners, where you didn´t see one only white face...and I thought I have an imagination of China. That was true, but not more. Back in Germany I worked for a Chinese Company for two years and now I have another imagination of China and the people. Perhaps you, after a few years, have some knowledge? (When I was 20something I tried to learn the language, but it is really hard)
Your little Mo-Li is very cute; would be a nice little girlfriend for my boy (pekinese).
Greetings from the other side of the globe
malarte

Unknown said...

thanks for your kind posts :-)
Malarte, I am in a relatively small city by Chinese standards and rarely see any other foreigners.Like everywhere in the world some people great, others not so great but I'm lucky to have good friends here. The language is a challenge and after nearly 3 years living here I still learn new things everyday. Yes Moli is fantastic company for me and so cute.
Greetings to you.
Sue