Article
I woke up at 4 am to go to Martyrs Park. It was a fascinating experience to see how people started their day exercising. The park came to life as people warmed up by stretching their legs, running, and even clapping their hands as they walked. Collectively men and women would practice Tia Chi. As I admired the beautiful green gardens and trees, I heard someone in the nearby distance screaming; they were releasing whatever sounds naturally came out from their body. Some people sat on a bench shaking their heads, slapping their legs and even singing opera as they looked onto a reflective pond. I felt very safe walking around here at such an early time of the day despite not seeing daylight ––the sun had yet to rise! As time progressed, people began to dance tango, cha-cha, fly kites, and practice martial arts movements with their swords. It was truly fascinating to see how people can be one with nature and with their bodies.
We then took a flight to Kunming. Afterwards, a very long bus ride awaited us because the main road was closed due to flooding. This led us to a scenic road trip where mountains unwounded into swirling rice fields. Different shades of green arose as the journey evolved. As we drove up the mountain, the view got better ––the field became bigger and richer in green hues. Flowers grew wildly giving specs of colors among all the green shades.
I feel very fortunate for the opportunity to travel through China with other educators for three weeks. Reflecting on many levels, I don’t think I would have been able to have this experience otherwise. The China Institute was fundamental in organizing things and facilitating communications throughout. I felt the language barrier when I was on my own and tried to ask for the most basic things in the hotel or at a market. I also value discussing things with such a smart group of educators. The ideas exchanged at our pedagogical sessions continued to develop over lunch and dinner. Great connections and bonds were made.
Jennifer Merdjan
Bard High School Early College
To add this post to your favorites list you must be Logged in
