Trying to relegate my thoughts on China to a brief blog leaves me feeling convoluted! Unfortuantely, It is hard for me to explain to someone who has never explored China before some of the things that I have experienced thus far. For starters, many ethnic Han Chinese stare at you in stark fascination. This is due to the fact that I may be the first tall, blonde hair, blue eyed American that they have ever seen before. I have discovered that most people do not do this out of anger. Even though we live in a world interconnected through the power of modern technology nothing compares with real, personal experiences. At least that is what I feel is the rationale behind thier looks of curiosity. I have also found many childern excited to walk near me while in Rongchang. They eagerly take amongst their friends as one strikes up the courage to speak to the foreigner!
China is a massive country. The affects of any giant population are at many levels very basic and seems quite clear cut. However, the experience of seeing how efficient the Chinese have become with maximizing space truly is mesmerizing to me. Everyone understands what they must do to maximize their own personal utilities in this setting. May it be living above a shop, having a sink, bathroom, and shower all in a 4’, 4’, 7” foot room, or conserving resources the Chinese have learned to do it well. I have found embracing these concepts worthwhile and effective. I could not have much to complain about since my apartment, teacher’s salary, and working conditions are all better than most in Rongchang.
Rongchang is a city or in China “town” of probably 600,000 people. It is too small to even be on most maps in China; however, it is growing quickly. A whole new city is being built out of across the river which is modern and western in many ways. The architects have added a lot of great Chinese styles to their work as well. It comes together as a wonderful synthesis of traditional and modern China. I will be starting my first teaching experience at Rongchang Campus this evening. I am very excited and lucky to be working with other great professionals as well. My closet colleague being my good friend: Cory Quirk-Becker. Cory and I have explored the city the last few days and really enjoyed sharing curriculum ideas together. Cory has illuminated me to many pieces of Chinese culture, language, and norms which have made my experience that much better. For instance, it is respectful for the least experienced in (age, profession, career, etc) to always place their glass lower than that of a person who is more experienced in their field.
I have had to use this technique often since my supervisor; Mr. Tian, has already taken me out for two different meals where he made sure that the toasts were flying left and right. Mr. Tian has showed me the meaning of hospitality during our few experiences together. He paid in full two meals which incorporated many courses. In each of these meals Mr. Tian started the ghan bei’s (cheers in Chinese) flowing often. As my supervisor he has made it his mission to help me reach my full potential and achieve success by supplying me with technical support and general problem solving.
I have also enjoyed my first week of running adventures. I call them adventures because as a pedestrian each time you cross the street you are taking your life into your own hands! This is because there are not unilateral traffic laws in China. Besides the lack of pedestrian utilitarianism, I really have enjoyed discovering the countryside and newer area of Rongchang. It is strange to see a whole new ghost city coming up from the earth without many people yet inhabiting it. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the fact that most of the people have grown to like the older areas of Rongchang and are not eager to move around yet. This will change soon when construction of the area is finished and new inhabitants move in. Therefore, it makes it nice for me now to run along these somewhat empty streets.
Running up the hills of the pagodas is also very beautiful. The views from the top of these landmarks provide a giant panorama of the city below and countryside behind. Upon changing directions you see the beauty of the rural China. This view allows one to see China in a whole different light. The urban populations will continue to grow as the Chinese government buys up these areas of rural land and subsidizes the farmer’s housing in cities. In reality, it is kind of sad to see this fast and inevitable urban movement. I look forward to continued teaching, running, adventuring, writing, journaling, eating, living, and experiencing China in Rongchang. I hope the best for all of you back in the states!
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