First Impressions

你们好！

Before arriving to China, the preconceptions I had were drastically different than what I have found to be the reality. From my experiences in the United States and Peru, I believed the Chinese to be in general, very private and closed off people. It seemed as though they were reluctant to engage with me and skeptical of my inquiry, however the interactions I have had thus far are quite the opposite. On the plane to Beijing, I sat next to a Chinese woman and man who spoke English, they were both extremely eager to share tips and suggestions with me and we even exchanged emails. I thought that perhaps they were exceptions because they had traveled to the United States frequently and spoke excellent English, little did I know that this is the way the majority of Chinese would be interacting with me. Upon arrival to Kunming and throughout the course of this week, I have found those that I interact with to be exceptionally kind and eager to share their culture. My experience in China has already begun to change my perspective.

Another facet of my experience in China thus far that has struck me with admiration is the richness and depth of the history and culture still evident in today’s modern world. I have read stories like The Good Earth and Snow Flower and the Secret Fan which discuss traditional Chinese livelihoods, but I did not expect such elements of the culture to be so prominent today, especially in the city. Walking down side streets and alleyways, you can still find traditional architecture, often times preserved to its original variation of colors. The rituals of drinking tea and practicing Taiji are also present in nearly every street corner. What is most astounding is the age of these traditions. The culture, like many of the temples still standing, date back to time periods stretching over a thousand years ago. When I think of something in the United States as being historical, it is often just over a hundred years old, but to see glimpses of a past that came and went so long ago is breathtaking.

Every moment I have experienced thus far is quite amazing, I am excited to see what lays ahead!

Elizabeth

Can’t believe the cuteness of every child here!

We went to the largest mosque in Kunming, even the kids were dressed in traditional clothes.

We traveled to the outskirts of the city to one of few Christian communities.

The pigs came running to the door in hope of an early dinner.

Some local cows wondering what stranger is passing by.

The traditional dress of these women and their spinning of yarn brought back flashbacks of being in the Andes of Peru.