Whether it's through my home or my daily life, everything revolves around the Chinese culture that has shaped me into who I am today. During my summer’s vacation throughout various areas of China, I was able to explore and truly understand how Chinese culture continues to deeply shape my lifestyle.
It had been at least 6 years since I had last been back to China. There were so many things that had changed and evolved. More people than I could count roamed the streets, and tall buildings covered every inch of my eyesight. This might surprise you, but the first place I landed at getting off my 5 hour flight was McDonalds. Not only was I extremely hungry, but I was also excited to see how upgraded the menu was compared to America’s. Just through food was I able to communicate with my inner heritage. During most of my time visiting my relatives, they brought me to the most praised restaurants and often made traditional and authentic foods of the area. I could feel myself straining to keep in my eagerness to finally try legitimate Chinese food, which I always craved in America. When I traveled to Sichuan for a summer camp this year, I was able to learn with professionals on how to make traditional Sichuan cuisine.
Combining my love for cooking and my passion for trying new foods, I was able to experience and understand true Sichuan culture and its brilliant history through my discoveries.
In Sichuan I also traveled to Du Fu’s thatched cottage, Emei Temple, and Leshan Giant Buddha. At each place I greatly admired the intricate architecture, the calming atmosphere, and how everyone was caring and respectful towards the temples and ancient buildings. As I was dazzled at the nature that had engulfed numerous areas, my group’s tour guide cheerfully told us the history and stories of each place. With each word, the more I was able to imagine and become immersed into ancient Chinese history. Each tree, plant, blade of grass reminds me of how each day back at home I live following norms that were built around the wise rules of famous figures that were now being taken pictures of with tourists. From a child I was already told to recite poems from Li Bai, Du Fu and various other famous poets from ancient China.
Now as I reflect upon everything I learned on the so many tours I had, I can genuinely say that Chinese culture truly shaped my youth and continues to lecture me as I grow up. Each step I took into the alley ways that snaked across the urban cities of Sichuan truly showed the amount of effort the local people took to preserve precious relics of Chinese culture.
Now, back in the US, with great enthusiasm, I continue to enhance my role in my Chinese community. I work towards showcasing and preserving the Chinese culture that I can give to my community. Each time I volunteer for an event, I’m so grateful that I'm able to lead and participate in these eye-opening occasions, where I can encourage others to embrace the wonderful, beautiful culture that has made me the person I am and will continue to share with the rest of the world.
