So I write now, finishing up my stay here in Beijing. I have learned much about the Chinese culture here. I did not really realize the extent to which family plays a role in the Chinese' lives..it seems it is a HUGE part! Certain Chinese (many I think) will not go through with a decision if their parents do not support it. It is always hard for me to do this, but my parents understand that I live my own life and will ultimately make the decisions I need to make...interesting cultural difference. It seems to lead many to be unhappy, because if the child chooses to do as he/she pleases, then the parents are unhappy, but if the child gives in and goes with the parents' decision, then the child is unhappy, a lose lose situation - of course not saying this is true for all.
I got some language practice in today with a gentleman from Inner Mongolia (still a part of China even though the name would imply Mongolia).
I feel like China is the Matrix. Not only because the government controlling what its people will see, but also physically with this fog. It is an ominous, strange and semi-uncomfortable feeling. When I stare into the sky I see nothingness- no blue sky, no clouds, just this mass. It has not been like this every day, but has been many days and actually the weather forecast is often wrong, with rain coming in many days. Also, many times when you ask a Chinese person for directions, if they do not know, they will point you in a direction anyway, or say "I think it is over there". Why? The Chinese do not seem to like saying "No" or "I don't know"...
As I sit and ponder my experiences thus far, excited for what will come, Shanghai awaits- 5pm my time I will arrive :) Beijing has been a truly incredible experience, and I can only hope that the rest of China offers me a similar if not better experience!
I got some language practice in today with a gentleman from Inner Mongolia (still a part of China even though the name would imply Mongolia).
I feel like China is the Matrix. Not only because the government controlling what its people will see, but also physically with this fog. It is an ominous, strange and semi-uncomfortable feeling. When I stare into the sky I see nothingness- no blue sky, no clouds, just this mass. It has not been like this every day, but has been many days and actually the weather forecast is often wrong, with rain coming in many days. Also, many times when you ask a Chinese person for directions, if they do not know, they will point you in a direction anyway, or say "I think it is over there". Why? The Chinese do not seem to like saying "No" or "I don't know"...
As I sit and ponder my experiences thus far, excited for what will come, Shanghai awaits- 5pm my time I will arrive :) Beijing has been a truly incredible experience, and I can only hope that the rest of China offers me a similar if not better experience!
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