I have spent a total of 48 hours in the country that disallows google to function properly. Hangzhou, a city that has a gorgeous lake and a population full of people that seem to enjoy where they're at and what they're doing. It is a cultural shock nonetheless as I explored through the streets and along the river. Traffic "laws" are suggestions and pedestrians play "Frogger" every time they decide to cross the street. The people here are welcoming, and that is a far cry from the people you encounter in the States. It is quite intimidating as you speak with my classmates in English and every Hangzhou citizen you pass stops in their tracks and gives you the stare of bewilderment until you are out of their sight.
Ignorance is a much harsher word to use in this context, so I will settle for the "lack of exposure." The lack of exposure to American culture and English seem to fascinate the citizens here. Not only does it fascinate but may also lead to teasing or belittling. We as visitors, unless we are fluent in Mandarin, would not know the difference whether they were being polite or saying offensive things to us.
An example I think of was prevalent on the flight to Hangzhou, China. Several classmates flew with me from the States to our destination. On the second flight, which was from Guangzhou to Hangzhou, 95% of the flights population featured Chinese citizens, the rest foreigners. In the US, we easily and quickly lose sight of the cultural differences that exists beyond our boarders. We are the "melting pot" of the globe and feature every race, ethnicity, and culture in the world. On the flight, a classmate of mine was an interest of several Chinese citizens during the flight. Since I have met my classmate, she has never been one to be afraid or effected by what others think. She is a strong-willed woman who is very confident in herself. At least from my perspective, this is the persona she emits to the outside world. The Chinese citizens whether they were truly interested, simply amusing her, or making fun of her was dependent on your perspective. To me, I felt as though some were truly genuine and wanted to reciprocate her level of interest in the language and culture. Others I found to walk the line of being perceived as making fun of her trying to learn the language. Almost as a level of superiority. This perspective I experienced, was quickly combated by the thoughts of how we as Americans "cope" with foreigners coming to the States. There are plenty of US citizens that are ignorant and oblivious to the world outside their city, state and country.
Ever since my "growth" and grasp of perspective, I no longer formulate an opinion or thought without acknowledging the other side. There is always at least two points to any opinion or "side." Where I may think I am being polite, another person may perceive it differently. I feel it is a necessity to be conscious of other points of view and not remain narrow minded or stubborn.
To get to the point really, MY ignorance in this country is bliss, I just smile and take in what is in front of me. This is a beautiful city that has many sites to see. The lake, which is called Westlake, is one of the most beautiful things I have encountered in my lifetime. I understand that I am an ambassador of the US and my actions speak for those not present here but either way, I will not let anything hinder or disable my ability to enjoy the wonders of this nation and the world. I am doing the one thing I absolutely love above most other things, I am being cultured. Cultured on the ways of the Eastern world. Cultured on things I never imagined and never heard of. I am being cultured on respecting the rest of the world, because they deserve to be respected.
Cultural Diversity in China is Perspective to the exponential power.
I can do no more than enjoy what is in front of me. No more than to love and respect the unknown for what it has to offer.
I bid you a due. Until next time.
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