Answers to Some Questions

Thank you for so many great comments. I often get so wrapped up in reading them, I forget to actually answer them. Lisa, had asked a few great questions a few days ago, and it seemed like a nice thing to do to actually answer her questions. Since the comments are public (I think), this seems a fitting forum to answer.

The first question was, "How do you find your ability to shop and interact so far - meaning - have you felt limited in speaking with folks as a result of the language barrier?" There are certainly some barriers to communicating, but this has been a great lesson in being intentional, clear, creative, and patient. However, people have been very helpful. The merchants in the places where we have been know enough English to get their point across, and to understand yours. I have not yet ventured into the back alleys where only the local people buy only Chinese things that some crazy American wouldn't want.

Here is an example of how it has worked. When we were at the great wall, it was sprinkling and windy. Of course the kids left their rain parkas at home or at the hotel, so we had to buy some. Walking to the wall their are gobs of vendors. (While China is a communist country politically, it is a VERY clearly a capital driven country economically). I saw some of those plastic, disposable parkas and pointed. Through hand gestures I told the man I wanted one adult and two children's. He wrote 120 on a sheet of paper to tell me how much. I wrote 10 on a sheet of paper knowing 15 was my target (thanks to our great guide's advice). He said "No," scoffed at my offer, knocked on his head and used the back of his hand to check the temperature on my forehead (it seems that is the "loco" sign in China). We went back and forth until I smiled put it down and walked away. He ran after me saying "OK." All of that communication and only two words were said. Other interactions have been very pleasant. People smile and show you their camera when they want to take your picture, ordering from restaurants is done via pictures and fingers showing how many of something you want. Somehow it all works - especially with a smile. You can really say a lot without words.

The next question was, "How have you found the Chinese to be in interacting with them, i.e.,-friendly, etc.?" They are very friendly. Like all cultures you will find a few crumudgins here and there. But for the most part, people are very eager to help and interact with us.

Here's an example. One evening I took the subway to get us some dinner. Returning home, I got off at the right stop, but went out the wrong exit. It was raining and I wanted to be sure to come out on the right corner of the intersection. Anyhow, as stood there looking at the map, a very nice Chinese lady asked in pretty good English if she could help me. When I told here where I was going, she realized I needed to go back through the gate - which meant paying again. She went and explained my situation to the security officer, who waved me through and sent me on my way. New Yorkers are pretty helpful, but can you imagine trying getting a Transit worker to let you back through the gate?

It has been helpful to learn, though that there are some Chinese cultural differences that most Americans would just consider rude. When you recognize it as cultural difference, it is much easier to understand and to blend in (Yeah, like I can actually blend in in China). Americans form lines for everything. We are like ants to an ant hill. Chinese don't believe in lines. For all their belief in social harmony and order, lines are not part of that equation. I think its a Zen thing; but don't quote me. They are more like bees to a honey pot. Both systems work. You just need to know which one you are operating in. If you think you are waiting in line in China, you are not; you are just standing there. Just stick your hand or foot or body in and you will get what you want and be were you need to be.

All in all the Chinese are a very friendly and helpful group of people. We feel very safe - except when crossing the street - and are enjoying every moment.