My Chinese Saturday

Although I live in China, I realized today that I don’t really live like a Chinese person. Today I went and spent the day with my friend and Chinese teacher, Taozi and her son (and my student), Thomas. It was a very relaxing and fun day. We cooked together, played piano together, and practiced our English/Chinese.

Nevertheless, throughout my time at their apartment, I discovered that I do not really live like a Chinese person. I thoroughly enjoy the simple, yet western-style apartment that I live in. I have a shower that is partitioned off from the rest of my bathroom. I have hot water in the entire house – not just my shower. I have a western toilet, sink, etc…. I even have a small toaster oven and cupboards. I speak English (and all its slang) with my roommates. I sleep on a soft bed, not a hard, Chinese-style bed. I eat chicken breasts – not baby chick hearts (um yes, we did have these for lunch…and yes, I ate a lot of them… and no, they were not super delicious, but they were a real treat for them, and thus, I guess for me too?!?… :).

Needless to say, I am more removed from the culture in which I live than I would like…. (although, I must confesss…I might draw the line at the baby chick hearts…)

But nonetheless, I also realized today that despite all the cultural differences, there is a lot which unites us…like smiles and laughter and love and music. Taozi doesn’t know Jesus yet, but I’m hoping that someday soon she will and that He will be the main cord that binds us together.

If you think about it, bring Taozi and her son, Thomas before the throne today. Ask that He would grant “doors of utterance” with her and that her heart would be drawn to the King. Thank you!

Taozi's son, Thomas, thoroughly enjoying some baby chick hearts. :)