Thoughts

China as a culture still is learning the concept of giving and even tipping. I asked an English major graduate from the Henan University his salary for the month as a bellboy – 800 rmb (676 rmb = $100 US). And he went through all of the world groups and stated who tips the best, Chinese – no, Europeans – yes, Africans – yes, Arabs – yes, Americans – the best.

Marshall just graduated this past June and is working at the Holiday Inn as his first job. People who speak English in China have lots of employment opportunities.

Chinese people in general love to express themselves. They are adamant, loud, excitable and passionate.

In general, Chinese people are rule followers. They don’t want to offend people…they are SO hospitable…especially to Americans. But when it comes to driving…well then it is the wild Wild West. No rules other than don’t get your car destroyed because you will be paying the damages.

I could never teach my students how to cross the streets here. It is simply ludicrous. On one major road yesterday – I was able to cross all of the lanes carefully and still looking in that direction…now in a six lane road with cars, scooters, bikes, pedestrians all going very very fast to their destinations the seventh lane going the opposite direction are buses and transportation vehicles. Simply Crazy. Either Eva or Xia grabbed my arm and kept me safe. So many things to take in!

All in all I love being here. We are able to help those most in need, I love good food, and I enjoy meeting new people.

I do miss my wife, Stephanie and kids. Love you guys.

babies need to be held when they cry