Wilson's Wanderings

Hi Everyone,

We have been in China nearly six weeks and what a wonderful time it has been. I want share some of what I have learned. Though I am the teacher, I find I have learned much from the students, staff, and other friends while I have been here.

I have had the privilege of living in and visiting a few countries, but I would have the say that China has been wonderful and ranks at the top. The Chinese people are the most warm, kind, and loving people I believe I have met. Although they may seem reserved, once you know them, they will do anything for you. I have observed some anger. For example, when a crash between two cars happens, there are a few words spoken in anger. That is the exception, though.

The kindness that fathers have for their children is noteworthy. Mothers care for their children and follow a similar norm as we in the USA are accustomed to, but the fathers here seem exceptionally kind and involved in their children’s lives. They are supportive, provide counsel and are prepared to sacrifice to help the children. I know of families here who have relocated to be closer to a specific school so that their children might be afforded greater opportunities.

Families are the foundation organization in this country. Families may consist of three and, some cases, four generations. They share apartments or other dwellings, grandparents assist parents in raising the children, and combine financial support. We met one family, a student’s, and learned that she refers to her cousin as her brother. It has been interesting. Her grandmother was a Pediatrician, father is an orthopedic surgeon, and she is becoming a doctor. They combine their knowledge, experience and resources to help this next generation become successful. Remember, this society is featured by its concept of collectivism rather than the individualism seen in the US.

Incidentally, the Lao Lao (grandmother) makes great dumplings and taught us how. They honored us by preparing us a wonderful meal. I think they are pleased of how Suzette is working with the daughter on English. The picture above shows us making dumplings with the Chin family.

I learned that insects have plenty of protein. Peter and Shelly Wang took us out on October 3^rd to a town to the north of Qingdao, Pingdu. When we had lunch, Suzette and I had the pleasure of eating the bugs pictured below. Yes, I know I would not do this, but they looked sooooo good. Funny enough, they actually were not bad. They did not have a strong taste and, at this writing, I am still quite alive.

Pingdu is known for its grapes and peanuts. Below is a picture of a woman raking the peanuts out on the road to dry. The peanuts here are very good and inexpensive. We purchased some shelled peanuts at the morning market and paid only a couple of dollars for a kilogram. They were roasted, but not not salted and I could eat them till I I get sick.

They, as might notice in the background, many thousands of acres of corn. I really was surprised to see the large amount of acreage planted. I also noticed that most of the work is done by people and not machines. I believe again that this is the purpose of a collective society. Everyone is expected to work for the greater good of the society. It does not matter how important or menial the work, It all contributes to the whole.

The majority of those who express a devotion to some religion are Buddhists. We find Buddhist Temples throughout the country. Peter and Shelly took us to a mountain to climb near Pingdu. Again we find many temples. The photos below might provide some example of what we see.

The people appear sincere and faithful to their beliefs. There is much money and food donated at these edifices. At the base of most of the sculptures, there is a place to set food and a box for donations. There are also vendors on site to selling the incense for burring. I am fascinated as I observe the people pay their devotions, kneel and offer prayer, and teach their children. I could spend all day just watching the people.

Near to the temple, we found people still celebrating. There is a small amusement park and many vendors selling food. They grill pork here that is fabulous – blackened pork. I was visiting with a family and they wanted me to be in a picture with an 80 year old man who was confined to a wheelchair. (we are asked to be in pictures a lot.) It was fun. The family offered us the pork. I don’t know how much they appreciate me in the picture, but I sure liked the pork.

We had a great day with Peter, Shelly and their son, James.  Below is a picture of Suzette with Shelly.

This is Suzette with Peter and James at the restaurant.

The Wang’s are a great family. Peter is a manager of a sales force for a jewelry manufacturing company. Shelly is a teacher. James is attending a private middle school and is a fan of the best sport in the world, soccer.