"Out to the Countryside"

Wow! What a day! This day is definitely one that Mom and I will never forget. We were so privileged to be able to go visit two villages and two family homes today. We drove about 30 minutes into the country. It is mind blowing to go from a bustling city into a very rural countryside in just a few short minutes. The difference in living conditions is stark. The two families lived in concrete rooms. They were traditional Chinese homes in that the rooms all opened to a communal area where each family shared a toilet, hose, and a wok that sat over a firebox. These were very poor families, but kind and gracious to us. The first family was a man and a woman. He was a retired teacher and they told us their story through a translator. She served us a honeydew melon and hot water. It was touching.

The second family was made up of 2 older girls and 1 older boy. Their mother had died and their father had moved away to farm and send money back. Their story was pretty sad, but they too wanted to tell us about their lives. We spent time with each family and were able to talk with them. It was a pretty emotional day. I'll be able to go into more detail when I get back.

I met two elderly ladies in the village. They were walking together and they caught my eye. I asked them if I could take their picture and they agreed. I had a guide with me and so she translated. They wanted to know where I came from and were happy to hear it was America. They said it must have cost a lot of money to come here and wanted to know why I did it. I told them my youngest daughter was from China and that I wanted to learn more about her culture. They were pleased and wanted to know if China is a beautiful place. I told them "Yes, China is a beautiful place with beautiful people. I love China." They smiled so proudly. It was something I'll never forget. I'll attach their picture. Can't you just see so much in their eyes? I see strength, will and determination, pain, and love. I could have spent hours with them listening to their life stories. One can only imagine what they have been through.