I know clerical work and "stress" don't typically go together in a sentence, but today was indeed one of the most stressful clerical work experience I have ever had in my life.
On resumes, clerical work sounds so mundane and simple, but somehow when you're in China, it is an unforeseen obstacle that you have to hurl yourself over. I often have little to nothing to do in the office, and am left to my own mischief, granted free internet access and a free meal a day. Today though, I was given more opportunities, but it may have been over my head. What is perceived as a simple task of typing up a handwritten 5-page document is in fact like trying to read some alien language written backwards and upside down. Yes, it was that difficult.
I've been studying Chinese since I was 5, but somehow handwritten Chinese is still some foreign script to me, especially in simplified Chinese. I blame it on the reduced strokes in each character, which makes guessing that much harder. Combined with the fact that it is 草字, written in Chinese shorthand, and my boss has bad handwriting, I was panicked as to how I could turn this in to him at the end of the day. In theory, it wasn't hard at all. I mean, yes, I can type Chinese just fine, and my average wpm is faster than all the people in my office. However, my main problem was deciphering what my boss had written on the page. To give an example of the difficulties I had, his "人" looked like an "L", and his “发” looked like a scribbled 3 with maybe a stray dot. Fortunately I was not reduced to tears out of frustration, and did my best to type what I could understand, leaving everything else (a large majority) in question marks. I then asked my coworkers to read it out to me instead, as I could type as fast as they could read. I felt bad, because it was 5 pages long, but I seriously could not have finished it otherwise. It took 3 of us combined to get it done, but even then, there were parts that we couldn't decipher from his poor handwriting. Most stressful ordeal ever, something that topped my translation of the equity transfer agreement, since this was for my boss, the boss of everyone at the entire firm. The language itself wasn't hard, maybe in reality 5-10 words I didn't know of the entire document. It was just that I couldn't read his handwriting. “国” looked like "网," so my eyes were crossed like three times over trying to figure out what was what. However, I think I started getting used to it. I may have simply needed a legend. This = this character, because while his handwriting was difficult to read, it did have a certain level of uniformity, and when they could not help me, I could go back and see what a similar squiggle was and apply it to a latter part of the document.
I also sent out an EMS today for another coworker who had to leave early to court in another city (poor lady). Semi-stressful, but the task was easy compared to before. I simply had to copy the information onto the form correctly (which thankfully was very legible; she kindly took into consideration of my limited Chinese skills and wrote it as clearly as she could) and give the money to the delivery man. I think this experience has gone to show me that A) I seriously need like a Chinese 101 in deciphering 草字/Chinese cursive, B) my Chinese needs some major improvement, it's all gone downhill without the academic environment, and C) I need to keep up with my reading skills, because while I actually know a lot of characters, I'm never certain whether I was right, even though my instinct is usually dead on. *sigh* All in due time. Am excited to meet up with all the Nanjing Flagship kids tomorrow though for hot pot! It'll be nice to catch up.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
More Internship Observations
An agitated “coworker” stormed back into the office today after going to court for her client in the 鼓楼 municipal court. As she began to unload her frustrations on her coworkers, I sat there somewhat clueless as to what it was all about. I had written before about the issue of judges and the corrupt system in which they are selected, and this was just one of the prime examples of why China’s legal system needs some serious revamping.
In the front of our office, there is a list of principles that the lawyers at my law firm abide by, and all the lawyers in our firm truly keep one to heart above all else: having the client’s best interests at heart. In this particular case, it was an issue about worker’s compensation, I believe, and was between an insurance company and my coworker’s client. Essentially, they wanted to only pay for the period of time her client was injured, deducting all the taxes, when in reality, the insurance company is supposed to cover much more than that. I wasn’t sure entirely how it all worked out mathematically, but the insurance company was somehow not paying enough, and was going by the wrong numbers. My coworker came back really upset mainly because her client was not going to get the money he needed, and the judge was too ignorant of the Law to 判 the right decision. As she began consulting with the other legal staff, the lawyer in our firm with the most expertise in the area confirmed that she was completely right, and that in a similar case he had done before, it was equally frustrating to get the judge to understand what the law exactly dictates about this area.
My coworker, 范姐, was not necessarily in hysterics, but pretty darn near close to it. She was so frustrated by the judge and his lack of insight into the Law. I don’t blame her. Considering that the average judge has little to no background in Law other than the 1 year of self-study and experience in the field, their judgment is often a bit skewed. They demand that the lawyers provide the actual article written in the law itself, printing off a copy for them to keep, when in practicality, the judge should already know what the law says. The lawyers have these for personal reference, so it is sort of preposterous that the judges are completely clueless. Essentially, due to this, a lawyer’s job is to find the most evidence for their stance and prove it to the judge, convincing him/her to side with their client. The judge merely makes a decision, and has little work to do himself. No wonder the competition to become a court judge is so intense lately. You don’t need to know very much, and you end up taking the credit for others’ work and make a lot of money in the process.
In the front of our office, there is a list of principles that the lawyers at my law firm abide by, and all the lawyers in our firm truly keep one to heart above all else: having the client’s best interests at heart. In this particular case, it was an issue about worker’s compensation, I believe, and was between an insurance company and my coworker’s client. Essentially, they wanted to only pay for the period of time her client was injured, deducting all the taxes, when in reality, the insurance company is supposed to cover much more than that. I wasn’t sure entirely how it all worked out mathematically, but the insurance company was somehow not paying enough, and was going by the wrong numbers. My coworker came back really upset mainly because her client was not going to get the money he needed, and the judge was too ignorant of the Law to 判 the right decision. As she began consulting with the other legal staff, the lawyer in our firm with the most expertise in the area confirmed that she was completely right, and that in a similar case he had done before, it was equally frustrating to get the judge to understand what the law exactly dictates about this area.
My coworker, 范姐, was not necessarily in hysterics, but pretty darn near close to it. She was so frustrated by the judge and his lack of insight into the Law. I don’t blame her. Considering that the average judge has little to no background in Law other than the 1 year of self-study and experience in the field, their judgment is often a bit skewed. They demand that the lawyers provide the actual article written in the law itself, printing off a copy for them to keep, when in practicality, the judge should already know what the law says. The lawyers have these for personal reference, so it is sort of preposterous that the judges are completely clueless. Essentially, due to this, a lawyer’s job is to find the most evidence for their stance and prove it to the judge, convincing him/her to side with their client. The judge merely makes a decision, and has little work to do himself. No wonder the competition to become a court judge is so intense lately. You don’t need to know very much, and you end up taking the credit for others’ work and make a lot of money in the process.
Something Missing...
Over the past month, I have oft blogged about the issue of Chinese and their sense of loneliness. I have mostly reasoned this as a sort of cultural/social bind, but I think I have missed the spiritual aspect about all of this.
Granted, the average Chinese is too engrossed in their work place to really develop any relationships, prioritizing monetary needs and a hunger for power above something as traditional a value as family. Ignored and lost in an education system that simply drills government-approved information (I do not say knowledge, because this is not really learning) into their heads, it isn't hard to see that these people are lonely. Yet, they are empty inside, and I think it is this spiritual emptiness that makes them nervous of being by themselves.
Since religion is virtually nonexistent in China due to the Cultural Revolution, something is seriously missing in their lives. Regardless of whichever religion it may be--though I myself believe that there is only one true way, I think religion often gives people a purpose, a reason for being, and a conduct of both the physical person as well as the spiritual self. Since the average Chinese is missing this one key component, they feel lost and helpless in this pointless cycle of climbing to the top, when in the end, all the material gains they have made will simply fade away. I think it finally hit me that it is really this religious void inside them that makes them so lonely and desperate for attention of any sort. They don't want to be by themselves, because they fear they will discover how pointless their lifestyle is in the end. For some, to compensate, they drink it away, smoke their lungs out, and drown themselves in the noise of the party life, but they come out empty nonetheless. For others, they are alone by themselves in an empty room on the weekend without knowing what to do with themselves other than play an online game that will virtually "connect" them with someone somehow. It is all rather tragic, and it pains me to realize this somehow. I honestly want to reach out to them somehow, but it's hard to know how to respond appropriately.
---
On a separate tangent, religion related, today, Kamla and I had dinner at Sculpting in Time. As I talked to Kamla, I watched her eyes narrow into slits as her expression grew darker by the minute. I have never seen her so angry, but as we left in a hurry, I found out that in the table behind me, a bunch of college-aged students were pointing and laughing at Kamla's headscarf, essentially making fun of her religion. It was really all too rude, but I think it is their ignorance that caused it. Granted, ignorance is no excuse for being completely rude, but since they have so little interaction with religion of any sort, I think that what they could not understand, they decided to make sport of. I felt terrible for Kamla. I honestly think she has it the hardest here in China. Being an American-born Chinese is hard enough in China, but combined with being Muslim, it is sometimes unbearable. The pointing and curious expressions she could deal with, but today was probably the last straw when they blatantly were making fun of her religion. Indeed, Kamla only had 2 hours total of sleep (nap included) today, but if I were in her shoes, I would have had an equally difficult time. While she did not dwell on it, or tried not to, I could visibly tell that she was distraught. I often wish that I could shield her from such prying eyes, but it's tough when she's more sensitive to their looks and stares (as she probably has already gotten in the American society). I really should have been more observant, and will keep an eye out for it next time. I'll stand up for her, if that's what it takes. I just wish that this experience will simply fade away soon in her mind. I don't want it to scar her experience here in China.
Granted, the average Chinese is too engrossed in their work place to really develop any relationships, prioritizing monetary needs and a hunger for power above something as traditional a value as family. Ignored and lost in an education system that simply drills government-approved information (I do not say knowledge, because this is not really learning) into their heads, it isn't hard to see that these people are lonely. Yet, they are empty inside, and I think it is this spiritual emptiness that makes them nervous of being by themselves.
Since religion is virtually nonexistent in China due to the Cultural Revolution, something is seriously missing in their lives. Regardless of whichever religion it may be--though I myself believe that there is only one true way, I think religion often gives people a purpose, a reason for being, and a conduct of both the physical person as well as the spiritual self. Since the average Chinese is missing this one key component, they feel lost and helpless in this pointless cycle of climbing to the top, when in the end, all the material gains they have made will simply fade away. I think it finally hit me that it is really this religious void inside them that makes them so lonely and desperate for attention of any sort. They don't want to be by themselves, because they fear they will discover how pointless their lifestyle is in the end. For some, to compensate, they drink it away, smoke their lungs out, and drown themselves in the noise of the party life, but they come out empty nonetheless. For others, they are alone by themselves in an empty room on the weekend without knowing what to do with themselves other than play an online game that will virtually "connect" them with someone somehow. It is all rather tragic, and it pains me to realize this somehow. I honestly want to reach out to them somehow, but it's hard to know how to respond appropriately.
---
On a separate tangent, religion related, today, Kamla and I had dinner at Sculpting in Time. As I talked to Kamla, I watched her eyes narrow into slits as her expression grew darker by the minute. I have never seen her so angry, but as we left in a hurry, I found out that in the table behind me, a bunch of college-aged students were pointing and laughing at Kamla's headscarf, essentially making fun of her religion. It was really all too rude, but I think it is their ignorance that caused it. Granted, ignorance is no excuse for being completely rude, but since they have so little interaction with religion of any sort, I think that what they could not understand, they decided to make sport of. I felt terrible for Kamla. I honestly think she has it the hardest here in China. Being an American-born Chinese is hard enough in China, but combined with being Muslim, it is sometimes unbearable. The pointing and curious expressions she could deal with, but today was probably the last straw when they blatantly were making fun of her religion. Indeed, Kamla only had 2 hours total of sleep (nap included) today, but if I were in her shoes, I would have had an equally difficult time. While she did not dwell on it, or tried not to, I could visibly tell that she was distraught. I often wish that I could shield her from such prying eyes, but it's tough when she's more sensitive to their looks and stares (as she probably has already gotten in the American society). I really should have been more observant, and will keep an eye out for it next time. I'll stand up for her, if that's what it takes. I just wish that this experience will simply fade away soon in her mind. I don't want it to scar her experience here in China.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
A Magnet to Cuteness
Kamla has often referred to me as a “Baby Magnet,” and that is not entirely inaccurate, but somehow it makes it sound like babies are attracted to me. No, in fact it is the other way around: I am a sucker for cuteness. I think China is pact full of cuteness in bundles, and I mean that both literally and figuratively.
With a population of 1.3 billion people, the ratio of babies to adults in China is something ridiculous like 1:5. It may sound like an exaggeration, but I honestly see Chinese babies everywhere, and they are simply adorable. I am squealing inside as I write this. My mother has often found my love of children so contradictory. I love kids, but do not want any of my own. Well, that is not entirely accurate, because I am very open to the idea of adoption, but I think it all depends on whether the Lord chooses to bless me with a husband in the future. Either way, it is not something I care to waste too many brain cells worrying about. The Lord provides abundantly, and at my current place in life, I enjoy goo-ga-ga-ing over all the adorable children in the lovely city of Nanjing.
Due to the really damp winters that Nanjing has, babies are often wrapped up to the point that they look like marshmallow penguins, so stuffed full of layers that their arms stick out perpendicular to their little bodies. For the occasional few children that actually walk themselves in the city, I have often found them waddling down the sidewalk with a grandmother trailing behind them. The thick layers inhibit free movement, and thus, it is so cute to watch as they struggle to balance themselves and walk down the street. I however, feel bad for these children though as the weather has begun to warm up. While their parents are down to 2 layers of clothing, these poor kids are red in the faces with still another 10 layers of clothing on. Regardless though, I adore the kids here in China. They are simply precious.
I guess I have always just had an eye to spot cuteness, because no matter where I am, I will spot the mother hoisting a child over her shoulder across the street. Kamla will always spin around like three times, as I point frantically at the cute baby, and she’s like, “how did you even notice that?” I guess I really am a magnet to babies.
But at the same time, I think I have a soft spot for all things cuddly, fuzzy, and cute. I spot tiny birds like no other, and dogs as if they were the most precious things in the world. In the community where I live, a neighbor across from our building had purchased a puppy a couple of months back. However, from what I have observed, Chinese do not enjoy physically petting their pets as much as we do. In fact, physical interaction or affection with their pets is slim to none. At first, the puppy was super hyper. The friendly creature it was, it would go greet everyone and say “hi!” I cannot resist puppy eyes on any creature, and pet him whenever I get the chance to. However, after a mild scolding from his owner one time, and probably some training of some sort, he was a little more hesitant to come and greet me. However, I still walk over to him and let him sniff me, so that I can pet him. This one simple gesture of affection over the past few months has caused this pup to grow somewhat attached to me, albeit the demonstration of this affection is always brief. I think he recognizes the sound of my heels whenever I come back from my internship. When he hears me coming, he will run up to me to let me pet him. Although I don’t think he really knows how to play, he gets excited simply to have someone reach out and touch him.
In this same sense, I think that is much of the social problem with China. Not to say I am comparing the condition of a dog with the average Chinese, as that would be too rude, but the affliction is much the same. Since Chinese people are often so busy with their school or work lives, they do not have the time to settle down and just relax, interact with a setting other than a structured workplace. As a result, in spite of the company of 1.3 billion people, I find that they are often super lonely. They crave a relationship of some sort, whether romantic or friendship; it is just tragic. I think I need to remind myself that although I am often tired, the simplest gesture of just caring for someone makes a huge difference, especially in China. They will remember you. Whether it is having manners at a restaurant and saying “Thank you” to a waitress when she gives you something, or asking how someone is doing sincerely, I think that is the true way of demonstrating a bit of the kindness the Bible speaks of. Being a witness for the Lord does not mean you have to be in someone’s face about religion. No, it can simply mean showing that something is different about you, and for me personally, that difference is because of Jesus working in my life. We do not choose a religion to participate in it every so often. No, being Christian is your being; it is a lifestyle that needs to be put into practice every day. That is what it means to be Christian, and I need to continue to strive towards this refining of my character into the likeness of Christ.
With a population of 1.3 billion people, the ratio of babies to adults in China is something ridiculous like 1:5. It may sound like an exaggeration, but I honestly see Chinese babies everywhere, and they are simply adorable. I am squealing inside as I write this. My mother has often found my love of children so contradictory. I love kids, but do not want any of my own. Well, that is not entirely accurate, because I am very open to the idea of adoption, but I think it all depends on whether the Lord chooses to bless me with a husband in the future. Either way, it is not something I care to waste too many brain cells worrying about. The Lord provides abundantly, and at my current place in life, I enjoy goo-ga-ga-ing over all the adorable children in the lovely city of Nanjing.
Due to the really damp winters that Nanjing has, babies are often wrapped up to the point that they look like marshmallow penguins, so stuffed full of layers that their arms stick out perpendicular to their little bodies. For the occasional few children that actually walk themselves in the city, I have often found them waddling down the sidewalk with a grandmother trailing behind them. The thick layers inhibit free movement, and thus, it is so cute to watch as they struggle to balance themselves and walk down the street. I however, feel bad for these children though as the weather has begun to warm up. While their parents are down to 2 layers of clothing, these poor kids are red in the faces with still another 10 layers of clothing on. Regardless though, I adore the kids here in China. They are simply precious.
I guess I have always just had an eye to spot cuteness, because no matter where I am, I will spot the mother hoisting a child over her shoulder across the street. Kamla will always spin around like three times, as I point frantically at the cute baby, and she’s like, “how did you even notice that?” I guess I really am a magnet to babies.
But at the same time, I think I have a soft spot for all things cuddly, fuzzy, and cute. I spot tiny birds like no other, and dogs as if they were the most precious things in the world. In the community where I live, a neighbor across from our building had purchased a puppy a couple of months back. However, from what I have observed, Chinese do not enjoy physically petting their pets as much as we do. In fact, physical interaction or affection with their pets is slim to none. At first, the puppy was super hyper. The friendly creature it was, it would go greet everyone and say “hi!” I cannot resist puppy eyes on any creature, and pet him whenever I get the chance to. However, after a mild scolding from his owner one time, and probably some training of some sort, he was a little more hesitant to come and greet me. However, I still walk over to him and let him sniff me, so that I can pet him. This one simple gesture of affection over the past few months has caused this pup to grow somewhat attached to me, albeit the demonstration of this affection is always brief. I think he recognizes the sound of my heels whenever I come back from my internship. When he hears me coming, he will run up to me to let me pet him. Although I don’t think he really knows how to play, he gets excited simply to have someone reach out and touch him.
In this same sense, I think that is much of the social problem with China. Not to say I am comparing the condition of a dog with the average Chinese, as that would be too rude, but the affliction is much the same. Since Chinese people are often so busy with their school or work lives, they do not have the time to settle down and just relax, interact with a setting other than a structured workplace. As a result, in spite of the company of 1.3 billion people, I find that they are often super lonely. They crave a relationship of some sort, whether romantic or friendship; it is just tragic. I think I need to remind myself that although I am often tired, the simplest gesture of just caring for someone makes a huge difference, especially in China. They will remember you. Whether it is having manners at a restaurant and saying “Thank you” to a waitress when she gives you something, or asking how someone is doing sincerely, I think that is the true way of demonstrating a bit of the kindness the Bible speaks of. Being a witness for the Lord does not mean you have to be in someone’s face about religion. No, it can simply mean showing that something is different about you, and for me personally, that difference is because of Jesus working in my life. We do not choose a religion to participate in it every so often. No, being Christian is your being; it is a lifestyle that needs to be put into practice every day. That is what it means to be Christian, and I need to continue to strive towards this refining of my character into the likeness of Christ.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Planning Events, or Lack Thereof
In the short 5-6 months that I have been here in China, event planning is perhaps one of the worst aspects of the Chinese culture. It is virtually nonexistent, and this is made apparent in their transportation system. Train tickets can only be purchased a maximum of 10 days in advance (fairly recently reduced from the original 14); movie tickets can only be purchased for a movie only 24 hours in advance, any earlier and it is unavailable; plane tickets get cheaper as you draw closer to the departure date, etc. The list goes on, but planning, or lack thereof can essentially drive the planner/schedule-driven American insane. In my case, it has really done a number on my nerves.
While most of the times, I am appreciative of the generous gestures Kamla's family members have made, today was almost the last straw. Last night, Kamla's uncle "invited" us to attend a symphony this evening, which in the end, he personally did not attend either. I have been exhausted all week and have been craving a weekend off, a Friday night with which I could catch up on some much-needed house-keeping, cleaning, chores, and writing/thinking. I need an evening to myself that I can just lounge around and virtually do nothing, or be semi-productive in my own book would be perfect. But no, while the concert was fairly enjoyable minus the irritating concert-etiquette-lacking audience, there were moments where I wanted to close my eyes and enjoy the music, but nearly drifted off due to fatigue. And that is saying something. Music is a source of reprieve for me, but when combined with a commentating populace, children running amok in the aisles, and doors opening and closing, my patience wore thin. Granted, I truly appreciate Kamla's family, but sometimes, all I wish they would do is ask. Kamla is often too nice, and I don't think "no" is in her vocabulary. Perhaps I have traditionally been too quick to say "no" to many invitations, but sometimes I think we need to know our limits. So perhaps we ought to balance the two of us out, but I guess it's just a matter of principle.
As Americans, I think we often engage in fights, wars, arguments over a simple matter of principles. And with these surprise outings that are just dumped into my lap all of a sudden, I honestly could use a warning or two. It's just common decency to ask first, instead of forcing someone to go attend something. It is much like drinking in China, you don't just force people to drink, ask. I don't like it when my freedom of choice and decision-making abilities are ripped out from under me. It is not a feeling I enjoy, but I suppose it is something I ought to accustom myself to if I plan on working with people in China. Needless to say, it is something I am working on.
Thankfully the evening didn't go too late today, but the crazy side of me wanting to still accomplish some goals was cleaning the house at 2 a.m. Yes, it's silly of me to be mopping the floor, cleaning the bathroom at 2:00 a.m., but hey, it was mildly therapeutic, and I will not have to force a tired-me tomorrow to do it out of obligation. At least now, those simple chores are out of the way.
While most of the times, I am appreciative of the generous gestures Kamla's family members have made, today was almost the last straw. Last night, Kamla's uncle "invited" us to attend a symphony this evening, which in the end, he personally did not attend either. I have been exhausted all week and have been craving a weekend off, a Friday night with which I could catch up on some much-needed house-keeping, cleaning, chores, and writing/thinking. I need an evening to myself that I can just lounge around and virtually do nothing, or be semi-productive in my own book would be perfect. But no, while the concert was fairly enjoyable minus the irritating concert-etiquette-lacking audience, there were moments where I wanted to close my eyes and enjoy the music, but nearly drifted off due to fatigue. And that is saying something. Music is a source of reprieve for me, but when combined with a commentating populace, children running amok in the aisles, and doors opening and closing, my patience wore thin. Granted, I truly appreciate Kamla's family, but sometimes, all I wish they would do is ask. Kamla is often too nice, and I don't think "no" is in her vocabulary. Perhaps I have traditionally been too quick to say "no" to many invitations, but sometimes I think we need to know our limits. So perhaps we ought to balance the two of us out, but I guess it's just a matter of principle.
As Americans, I think we often engage in fights, wars, arguments over a simple matter of principles. And with these surprise outings that are just dumped into my lap all of a sudden, I honestly could use a warning or two. It's just common decency to ask first, instead of forcing someone to go attend something. It is much like drinking in China, you don't just force people to drink, ask. I don't like it when my freedom of choice and decision-making abilities are ripped out from under me. It is not a feeling I enjoy, but I suppose it is something I ought to accustom myself to if I plan on working with people in China. Needless to say, it is something I am working on.
Thankfully the evening didn't go too late today, but the crazy side of me wanting to still accomplish some goals was cleaning the house at 2 a.m. Yes, it's silly of me to be mopping the floor, cleaning the bathroom at 2:00 a.m., but hey, it was mildly therapeutic, and I will not have to force a tired-me tomorrow to do it out of obligation. At least now, those simple chores are out of the way.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Observations on the Law
As I have certainly iterated before, being a lawyer in China does not seem like legal counsel at all. Instead, it is often marriage counseling, or consoling the client for his or her losses. Yesterday, a coworker asked me what it was like to be a lawyer in the US. Did we have to deal with the same kind of “crap,” as it were, everyday? I certainly did not have an answer for him, but after the consultation that I was certain the entire firm heard yesterday, I am almost positive our system is entirely different.
A lady came in yesterday, I have no idea how old she was, but it was indeed a case of lamentation. I have a lot of trouble understanding incoherent Nanjing dialect babble, especially when someone is 激动, but this was definitely an experience. As soon as she sat on the couch in the receptionist area and was met up with the lawyer who usually sits next to me, she started yelling at him. I am positive it had nothing to do with him, but it was her way of explaining. As she yelled so loud like she was getting into a fight, her voice permeated the entire firm. The lawyer, on the other hand, remained calm and collected, simply staying quiet as she yelled her explanation at him. It is somewhat stunning for myself, because I do not see the effectiveness of yelling at your representative lawyer. I guess my impression of law is more laid out or systematic, where people come to lawyers to resolve their problems, that is after they have already calmed themselves and have a semi-level head to fix the problem. I think that’s why in the US, as far as I know, for divorces, they give you one year’s time before you can complete the divorce, giving you adequate time to think things out. Anyhow, as I tried to understand what this lady was lamenting about, all of a sudden, it went from yelling at the top of her lungs to wailing as she began to cry. From the sound of her voice, she was fairly older, and there was just so much pain at the injustice of what I could only assume was either her marriage or the situation she was in (likely a landlord, as that is all I have seen dealt here most frequently).
Indeed, it would seem like family law is a huge practice in China, and all these people are just so desperate for some kind of resolution to a marriage they personally are not willing to fix themselves. It is honestly rather sad to see this situation, but I believe it is in part due to the One-Child Policy. Since every child is spoiled to the point of being treated as little emperors and empresses, they are used to getting things their way, and do not let up no matter what. So when two spoiled individuals used to having their way are put together in a marriage, chaos can only ensue if one does not let up.
I think as a society, their family structures have been truly messed up. Not only will kids within the next few years not have any cousin of any sort (as is happening already to some), but because there is a trend to get married in China by a certain age, a lot of these marriages are not only premature but unstable. I find a lot of couples these days dating simply for the sake of saying that they are in a relationship. As it disturbs me that these couples are so publicly affectionate even in such a supposedly “conservative” society, I wonder at what the future will bring. These couples get married fairly fast, all marrying before the age of 30, and all have kids almost immediately after marriage. They do not have time to simply get to know each other nor do they understand the dynamics of being a couple, and delve into child-rearing, which only escalates problems. As a result, divorce rates are on a rise, and lawyers I suppose in this area are continuing to be in great need. It is tragic though that the mainland Chinese culture has fallen to such a point. In the past, divorce was seen as taboo, because family is central to the Chinese culture. But now, it is the selfish needs of the individual, be it personal liberties, sexual gratification, or professional aspirations that guide the society. I fear for the future. Hopefully the Chinese government has observed this and will find a means to curtail the issue. I was talking to Lauren, and she told me that in a recent poll, 70% of mainland Chinese do not like the One Child Policy. Whereas in other countries, the government will pay you to give birth and raise a child (as birthrates are slumping in other countries), China yearns to have such liberties. I just hope China can find a balance so that families are satisfied with themselves, and yet maintain just enough balance so that the government can sustain such a large population.
A lady came in yesterday, I have no idea how old she was, but it was indeed a case of lamentation. I have a lot of trouble understanding incoherent Nanjing dialect babble, especially when someone is 激动, but this was definitely an experience. As soon as she sat on the couch in the receptionist area and was met up with the lawyer who usually sits next to me, she started yelling at him. I am positive it had nothing to do with him, but it was her way of explaining. As she yelled so loud like she was getting into a fight, her voice permeated the entire firm. The lawyer, on the other hand, remained calm and collected, simply staying quiet as she yelled her explanation at him. It is somewhat stunning for myself, because I do not see the effectiveness of yelling at your representative lawyer. I guess my impression of law is more laid out or systematic, where people come to lawyers to resolve their problems, that is after they have already calmed themselves and have a semi-level head to fix the problem. I think that’s why in the US, as far as I know, for divorces, they give you one year’s time before you can complete the divorce, giving you adequate time to think things out. Anyhow, as I tried to understand what this lady was lamenting about, all of a sudden, it went from yelling at the top of her lungs to wailing as she began to cry. From the sound of her voice, she was fairly older, and there was just so much pain at the injustice of what I could only assume was either her marriage or the situation she was in (likely a landlord, as that is all I have seen dealt here most frequently).
Indeed, it would seem like family law is a huge practice in China, and all these people are just so desperate for some kind of resolution to a marriage they personally are not willing to fix themselves. It is honestly rather sad to see this situation, but I believe it is in part due to the One-Child Policy. Since every child is spoiled to the point of being treated as little emperors and empresses, they are used to getting things their way, and do not let up no matter what. So when two spoiled individuals used to having their way are put together in a marriage, chaos can only ensue if one does not let up.
I think as a society, their family structures have been truly messed up. Not only will kids within the next few years not have any cousin of any sort (as is happening already to some), but because there is a trend to get married in China by a certain age, a lot of these marriages are not only premature but unstable. I find a lot of couples these days dating simply for the sake of saying that they are in a relationship. As it disturbs me that these couples are so publicly affectionate even in such a supposedly “conservative” society, I wonder at what the future will bring. These couples get married fairly fast, all marrying before the age of 30, and all have kids almost immediately after marriage. They do not have time to simply get to know each other nor do they understand the dynamics of being a couple, and delve into child-rearing, which only escalates problems. As a result, divorce rates are on a rise, and lawyers I suppose in this area are continuing to be in great need. It is tragic though that the mainland Chinese culture has fallen to such a point. In the past, divorce was seen as taboo, because family is central to the Chinese culture. But now, it is the selfish needs of the individual, be it personal liberties, sexual gratification, or professional aspirations that guide the society. I fear for the future. Hopefully the Chinese government has observed this and will find a means to curtail the issue. I was talking to Lauren, and she told me that in a recent poll, 70% of mainland Chinese do not like the One Child Policy. Whereas in other countries, the government will pay you to give birth and raise a child (as birthrates are slumping in other countries), China yearns to have such liberties. I just hope China can find a balance so that families are satisfied with themselves, and yet maintain just enough balance so that the government can sustain such a large population.
Cultural Observations
03.15.2010
不文明现象
There are somethings that still have that major shock factor whenever I browse/walk the streets of China. For example, people throwing bones on the streets or draining things into the city street drains (this can range from food excess to pure oil). It is rather disturbing at times, when I watch a seemingly decent lady sitting inside her store at lunch time, when suddenly she flings a chicken bone right in front of my feet as I walk by. This is definitely not what happens in civilized society; however, I think a part of this isn’t so much cultural as it is city layout. Granted, throwing any garbage into the streets is a depiction of uneducated society, but perhaps if the city had a better structure, sewage or even a better layout, more updated technology, they would have a better means to处理 the excess. Then, perhaps they would not use such unsanitary means of disposing their garbage (better drainage systems/garbage disposal in the sink).
Old people 体操by my law firm
One interesting sight I have found is that there are a bunch of elderly individuals who come in front of our building lately and simply just dance or do Tai Chi. It is rather amusing in the morning, when I find so many elderly individuals riding the bus specifically just to get to that area at 9:00 a.m. or 8:00 a.m. to practice. It’s rather cute.
Bus Riding
I am constantly sliding around on the bus like there is no tomorrow, and I have found that the floor in general is precarious to those without traction on their shoes. The reason being is that the floor is SOOO dirty with sandy mud that I slip all over the place with my 1 inch heels.
Car accident
There was a car accident today, and I was rather surprised by how they handled the situation. It was between a lady in a red Mazda and a man in a taxi. The lady took pictures of the accident, but they were both very anxious about the situation. While they handled it fairly effectively in terms of normal American traffic laws, they refused to move to the side of the street to resolve their dispute (as would be the logical and polite thing to do). Instead, they created a traffic jam as both cars refused to move until the transaction was settled between the two of them. Surprisingly, other cars simply just moved around them and there was no yelling or frustration with such an inefficient way of coping with the situation. I myself, rather, stood on the side, practically screaming at them in my head for them to just move to the side of the road and stop blocking traffic (and I was merely standing at the bus stop). This perhaps reflects though the value that they place in cars. Since they all spend more than they can afford on cars of luxury for “face,” even the littlest scratch will not be let go, and they will indefinitely seek compensation.
不文明现象
There are somethings that still have that major shock factor whenever I browse/walk the streets of China. For example, people throwing bones on the streets or draining things into the city street drains (this can range from food excess to pure oil). It is rather disturbing at times, when I watch a seemingly decent lady sitting inside her store at lunch time, when suddenly she flings a chicken bone right in front of my feet as I walk by. This is definitely not what happens in civilized society; however, I think a part of this isn’t so much cultural as it is city layout. Granted, throwing any garbage into the streets is a depiction of uneducated society, but perhaps if the city had a better structure, sewage or even a better layout, more updated technology, they would have a better means to处理 the excess. Then, perhaps they would not use such unsanitary means of disposing their garbage (better drainage systems/garbage disposal in the sink).
Old people 体操by my law firm
One interesting sight I have found is that there are a bunch of elderly individuals who come in front of our building lately and simply just dance or do Tai Chi. It is rather amusing in the morning, when I find so many elderly individuals riding the bus specifically just to get to that area at 9:00 a.m. or 8:00 a.m. to practice. It’s rather cute.
Bus Riding
I am constantly sliding around on the bus like there is no tomorrow, and I have found that the floor in general is precarious to those without traction on their shoes. The reason being is that the floor is SOOO dirty with sandy mud that I slip all over the place with my 1 inch heels.
Car accident
There was a car accident today, and I was rather surprised by how they handled the situation. It was between a lady in a red Mazda and a man in a taxi. The lady took pictures of the accident, but they were both very anxious about the situation. While they handled it fairly effectively in terms of normal American traffic laws, they refused to move to the side of the street to resolve their dispute (as would be the logical and polite thing to do). Instead, they created a traffic jam as both cars refused to move until the transaction was settled between the two of them. Surprisingly, other cars simply just moved around them and there was no yelling or frustration with such an inefficient way of coping with the situation. I myself, rather, stood on the side, practically screaming at them in my head for them to just move to the side of the road and stop blocking traffic (and I was merely standing at the bus stop). This perhaps reflects though the value that they place in cars. Since they all spend more than they can afford on cars of luxury for “face,” even the littlest scratch will not be let go, and they will indefinitely seek compensation.
Nothing says Supsicious like an American Passport
Contrary to what China Daily will have you believe, Sino-American relations are not as fine and dandy as they make it out to be. My boss today in passing asked me what forms of Chinese identification did I have. I had none, other than my own passport and the Chinese visa inside it. He had wanted to bring me to the court house, but was afraid that there would be complications if all I had was an American passport. Attorney Shi had informed me that in the past, American passports have proven tricky to get into a normal courthouse.
I think China remains suspicious of Americans, and don't want any of us anywhere near places of power, fearing that we might influence the general populace. In Connie's case, her initial internship plan with the local newspaper flopped because she had an American passport. And now, it is me and entering a government facility that metes law. What kind of "good" relationship is that if you suspect that Americans will mess up the current system in place? I grow tired of this suspicion towards us. Just because I have my differing opinions does not mean that I will necessarily impose them on you. It is frustrating, and something the general populace ought to take into consideration before trying to impose their own social philosophies on me... I am not planning on converting to communism any time soon. I am attached to the democracy and freedom I enjoy.
I think China remains suspicious of Americans, and don't want any of us anywhere near places of power, fearing that we might influence the general populace. In Connie's case, her initial internship plan with the local newspaper flopped because she had an American passport. And now, it is me and entering a government facility that metes law. What kind of "good" relationship is that if you suspect that Americans will mess up the current system in place? I grow tired of this suspicion towards us. Just because I have my differing opinions does not mean that I will necessarily impose them on you. It is frustrating, and something the general populace ought to take into consideration before trying to impose their own social philosophies on me... I am not planning on converting to communism any time soon. I am attached to the democracy and freedom I enjoy.
Blind Side
Blind Side is a remarkable film, and I was stunned by some of the underlying themes. As usual, my pensive side got the best of me, and the brilliant movie really got me thinking.
At the young age of 23, Michael Oher, since 2009 signed to the Ravens in the NFL was once mistreated and looked down on in a high-class, Anglo-Saxon, Southern community. As I watched the film indicate some prejudices that still remain to this day, these issues shocked me as they occurred merely 5-6 years ago. Indeed, racism remains an issue to this day, but it still shocks me that there are still communities with such extreme prejudices and stereotypes towards others of a different color. Indeed, being slightly lighter on the "color" spectrum and further up north has indeed blessed me without such painful experiences, but when I think back on it now, I think racism still happens in some form around us. Granted, I have never been called something as demeaning as "chink," but "that short Asian girl" can sometimes hit a nerve when you want to be seen as more than that. Growing up in the Northwest was indeed a blessing, as I did not face many racist notions from the community, but indeed, I think I stuck out like a sore thumb back in preschool, being 1 of only 2 Chinese girls. I think as children, we are not aware of this concept of "race" or "color." It is a social construct that is drilled into us through our education. Whether it is a conscious action or unconscious on our government's part (such as surveys and censuses), in some ways, being in such a diverse society as America can have its ups and downs.
Diversity is something we emphasize as a nation, but at the same time, because of it, we often draw lines of division to specify what that diversity is. I recall commercials at a young age where they flashed through people of different races saying "I am American." While it may be heartwarming, this is often not the case. In no way am I perceived as the "true" American. Even though I am as American as you can get, born, raised, educated in America, I will always never be purely identified as such. I will always have an attachment to the title, a hyphenation as American-Chinese or Chinese-American, whichever you will. And yes, while I find immense pride in being Chinese by ethnicity, my nationality is indeed American, but I will never be recognized that way, whether by my own government or by others. It is a frustrating paradox. I do not think that the typical WASP (White Anglo Saxon Protestant) faces this issue. They never have to identify themselves as, "I am American-British-Irish-Native American-Russian-German" or vice versa. They simply say "I am American," and as a global society, we have accepted that. Sometimes I just find it a painful realization.
Kamla today had an awkward question from a taxi driver, saying "If the US and China were to go to war, which side would you pick?" I'll give her props for having the guts to answer this can of worms honestly, as I typically avoid these questions with a simple "It's too complicated." No, instead, she said, "I'd pick America, because I was raised there and identify with them more." However, interestingly enough, the driver said, "But, you know deep down inside,you're really Chinese right?" Sometimes it's more a statement than a question, but it's frustrating. Could I ever truly break into this market or this society? Would they trust me more simply because I am Chinese by descent? Or would I be seen as a potential threat, never truly able to discern where my loyalties lie? It is indeed a complicated dilemma and somewhat why I am beginning to shy away from the idea of a permanent vocation in mainland China.
Anyhow, back to the movie Blind Side. As my eyes teared up at this one particularly emotional scene, I realized how much I take for granted. Michael Oher's later adoptive mother had brought him into her home and decided to give him a guest room to permanently stay in. As she lists off all the things that are now his and that he can use, she stops and smiles at his amazement. "What, you've never had your own room before?" In a sobering moment, Michael replies, "No, I've never had my own bed before." As her eyes began to tear, she quickly muttered, "Well, you do now," and briskly walked into the solace of her own room to cry. I found myself instantly crying with her as I realized how many things in life I took for granted. This is not some third world country we're talking about. This is modern America, a man who is merely 3 years my senior five years ago did not ever have his own bed. I realized in that moment that I am not only blessed, but have indulged too much in luxury. I expect to live in the lap of luxury, I expect comfort, and yet, some people can barely get by. Granted, I doubt that this will instantaneously curb any of my luxurious tastes, but I will indeed reconsider my shopping habits and get back into being a better steward of my money. It's just been spend, spend, spend.
Lastly, the theme of family in the movie made me miss my own family deeply. I miss the family dynamics that seems so lacking here in China. Since many family structures have a reversed focus, with 2 generations of people focusing all their attention on the only child, I miss a family that is willing to give up so much for their fellow brother, sister, mother, or father. At the same time, I think I have come to understand a bit more about parenting. Michael Oher's birth mother was a cocaine addict, and although he was in the throes of it all, his mother would always tell him to close his eyes so that he would never see her use a needle or the bad things she was engaged in. I think that's what's amazing about any parent. While a "parent" is a loose term, I think no parent ever wants their child (no matter how emotionally distant) to get involved in the same wrongs or mistakes that they have done in the past. Now, I begin to become more grateful for all the things my parents have done. While it may be annoying at times to hear their nagging, I know that it comes from a good place, and that they are simply trying to get me to understand, help me avoid the mistakes of their own pasts. Of course, nothing teaches much like a lesson of experience, and I am and have always been a glutton for punishment, but I think I'm beginning to see that my parents know best. They are after all much older and much wiser than I am. The more experiences I have, the more I realize how little I know both about life and about the world. Therefore, if I were smart, I should definitely listen to the advice of the generation before me.
At the young age of 23, Michael Oher, since 2009 signed to the Ravens in the NFL was once mistreated and looked down on in a high-class, Anglo-Saxon, Southern community. As I watched the film indicate some prejudices that still remain to this day, these issues shocked me as they occurred merely 5-6 years ago. Indeed, racism remains an issue to this day, but it still shocks me that there are still communities with such extreme prejudices and stereotypes towards others of a different color. Indeed, being slightly lighter on the "color" spectrum and further up north has indeed blessed me without such painful experiences, but when I think back on it now, I think racism still happens in some form around us. Granted, I have never been called something as demeaning as "chink," but "that short Asian girl" can sometimes hit a nerve when you want to be seen as more than that. Growing up in the Northwest was indeed a blessing, as I did not face many racist notions from the community, but indeed, I think I stuck out like a sore thumb back in preschool, being 1 of only 2 Chinese girls. I think as children, we are not aware of this concept of "race" or "color." It is a social construct that is drilled into us through our education. Whether it is a conscious action or unconscious on our government's part (such as surveys and censuses), in some ways, being in such a diverse society as America can have its ups and downs.
Diversity is something we emphasize as a nation, but at the same time, because of it, we often draw lines of division to specify what that diversity is. I recall commercials at a young age where they flashed through people of different races saying "I am American." While it may be heartwarming, this is often not the case. In no way am I perceived as the "true" American. Even though I am as American as you can get, born, raised, educated in America, I will always never be purely identified as such. I will always have an attachment to the title, a hyphenation as American-Chinese or Chinese-American, whichever you will. And yes, while I find immense pride in being Chinese by ethnicity, my nationality is indeed American, but I will never be recognized that way, whether by my own government or by others. It is a frustrating paradox. I do not think that the typical WASP (White Anglo Saxon Protestant) faces this issue. They never have to identify themselves as, "I am American-British-Irish-Native American-Russian-German" or vice versa. They simply say "I am American," and as a global society, we have accepted that. Sometimes I just find it a painful realization.
Kamla today had an awkward question from a taxi driver, saying "If the US and China were to go to war, which side would you pick?" I'll give her props for having the guts to answer this can of worms honestly, as I typically avoid these questions with a simple "It's too complicated." No, instead, she said, "I'd pick America, because I was raised there and identify with them more." However, interestingly enough, the driver said, "But, you know deep down inside,you're really Chinese right?" Sometimes it's more a statement than a question, but it's frustrating. Could I ever truly break into this market or this society? Would they trust me more simply because I am Chinese by descent? Or would I be seen as a potential threat, never truly able to discern where my loyalties lie? It is indeed a complicated dilemma and somewhat why I am beginning to shy away from the idea of a permanent vocation in mainland China.
Anyhow, back to the movie Blind Side. As my eyes teared up at this one particularly emotional scene, I realized how much I take for granted. Michael Oher's later adoptive mother had brought him into her home and decided to give him a guest room to permanently stay in. As she lists off all the things that are now his and that he can use, she stops and smiles at his amazement. "What, you've never had your own room before?" In a sobering moment, Michael replies, "No, I've never had my own bed before." As her eyes began to tear, she quickly muttered, "Well, you do now," and briskly walked into the solace of her own room to cry. I found myself instantly crying with her as I realized how many things in life I took for granted. This is not some third world country we're talking about. This is modern America, a man who is merely 3 years my senior five years ago did not ever have his own bed. I realized in that moment that I am not only blessed, but have indulged too much in luxury. I expect to live in the lap of luxury, I expect comfort, and yet, some people can barely get by. Granted, I doubt that this will instantaneously curb any of my luxurious tastes, but I will indeed reconsider my shopping habits and get back into being a better steward of my money. It's just been spend, spend, spend.
Lastly, the theme of family in the movie made me miss my own family deeply. I miss the family dynamics that seems so lacking here in China. Since many family structures have a reversed focus, with 2 generations of people focusing all their attention on the only child, I miss a family that is willing to give up so much for their fellow brother, sister, mother, or father. At the same time, I think I have come to understand a bit more about parenting. Michael Oher's birth mother was a cocaine addict, and although he was in the throes of it all, his mother would always tell him to close his eyes so that he would never see her use a needle or the bad things she was engaged in. I think that's what's amazing about any parent. While a "parent" is a loose term, I think no parent ever wants their child (no matter how emotionally distant) to get involved in the same wrongs or mistakes that they have done in the past. Now, I begin to become more grateful for all the things my parents have done. While it may be annoying at times to hear their nagging, I know that it comes from a good place, and that they are simply trying to get me to understand, help me avoid the mistakes of their own pasts. Of course, nothing teaches much like a lesson of experience, and I am and have always been a glutton for punishment, but I think I'm beginning to see that my parents know best. They are after all much older and much wiser than I am. The more experiences I have, the more I realize how little I know both about life and about the world. Therefore, if I were smart, I should definitely listen to the advice of the generation before me.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Observations about the Workplace
One of the things that I have noticed about the Chinese workforce, whether culturally or simply system-wise, is that people are uncomfortable by themselves. Unlike the U.S., where cubicle spaces are seen as the lowest of the low, I found that a majority of Chinese people seem uncomfortable with the idea of being left alone by themselves. While indeed, people of high positions get their own offices, or at the very least share it with one other individual, there is always a mild comfort in the company of another person. Since the original water cooler must be cleaned on a monthly basis (as it grows this weird algae), as an office, they unanimously decided to simply use a water kettle instead. The legal staff, however, takes this as an opportunity to enter the “cubicle” area, where they refill their cups with water and then engage in conversation. The conversation is never anything surprising, the usual talk of the weather or asking about a case, or simply questions about their families’ welfare, but I always find it interesting that they would go out of their ways to do this.
Indeed, I believe this is in large part the reason why a lot of interns have little to do, at least in a law firm. The traditional photo copies and refilling of coffee responsibilities for the intern have been of no demand or little use, as it would take away from the little social interaction that these individuals have with one another. Instead, it is an excuse to walk around, move their legs, communicate with one another, and have something to do in the office other than work all day.
The work efficiency of the average Chinese is surprisingly rather low. I mean, indeed, some people do not care at all, but the overall business in itself does not demand much from them. While I always feel like there is overstaffing in any company, store, or firm, I think this is in large part due to the population size. The government needs to find a way of keeping these people employed, but as a result, the tasks have been divvied up in such a manner that each individual in reality has very little to do. Unfortunately, this system only creates clutter and limits the total efficiency of their workforce.
For example, I went to a skincare franchise called “It’s Skin,” and the store was probably only about the size of my bedroom. However, the store itself was empty of customers, but had 7 employees at its disposal. As soon as you walk in, half of them flock around you, because there is so little to do. As soon as we left though, I discovered that most of these employees turned back around and returned to trying out the sample products on display intended for customers. From a business perspective, I would not hire that many useless people. But in China, wages are so cheap, and in the Chinese mindset, the more the merrier. It is not a matter of efficiency, but the demands of the market as well as the Chinese culture of “face.” It definitely sounds better to say that I have ten employees as opposed to having only three in your store, even though the ten work about the same as three people.
I suppose in this sense, most of us, at least American interns, feel pretty useless. For me, I feel completely useless most of the time, because I am not even given clerical work to busy myself with the time. On occasion, there is some, but the firm is so over-employed at times, that even the clerical work is snatched up so that they are not bored out of their minds. The lawyer’s desk that I sat in came in yesterday, but had absolutely nothing to do. Without a computer on his desk, he merely read the newspaper and walked around the office to talk to people. Since it was his “down time” per se from cases, his lack of a task merely meant show up to the office for about an hour, and deeming it pointless, he left early at about 2:00 p.m. I suppose this is simply with law firms, as I have yet to hear this kind of freedom to leave work whenever you want from other jobs. I guess it just goes with the territory. The more you put in to achieve the license to practice, the less you will have to work as a result of that initial effort.
Indeed, I believe this is in large part the reason why a lot of interns have little to do, at least in a law firm. The traditional photo copies and refilling of coffee responsibilities for the intern have been of no demand or little use, as it would take away from the little social interaction that these individuals have with one another. Instead, it is an excuse to walk around, move their legs, communicate with one another, and have something to do in the office other than work all day.
The work efficiency of the average Chinese is surprisingly rather low. I mean, indeed, some people do not care at all, but the overall business in itself does not demand much from them. While I always feel like there is overstaffing in any company, store, or firm, I think this is in large part due to the population size. The government needs to find a way of keeping these people employed, but as a result, the tasks have been divvied up in such a manner that each individual in reality has very little to do. Unfortunately, this system only creates clutter and limits the total efficiency of their workforce.
For example, I went to a skincare franchise called “It’s Skin,” and the store was probably only about the size of my bedroom. However, the store itself was empty of customers, but had 7 employees at its disposal. As soon as you walk in, half of them flock around you, because there is so little to do. As soon as we left though, I discovered that most of these employees turned back around and returned to trying out the sample products on display intended for customers. From a business perspective, I would not hire that many useless people. But in China, wages are so cheap, and in the Chinese mindset, the more the merrier. It is not a matter of efficiency, but the demands of the market as well as the Chinese culture of “face.” It definitely sounds better to say that I have ten employees as opposed to having only three in your store, even though the ten work about the same as three people.
I suppose in this sense, most of us, at least American interns, feel pretty useless. For me, I feel completely useless most of the time, because I am not even given clerical work to busy myself with the time. On occasion, there is some, but the firm is so over-employed at times, that even the clerical work is snatched up so that they are not bored out of their minds. The lawyer’s desk that I sat in came in yesterday, but had absolutely nothing to do. Without a computer on his desk, he merely read the newspaper and walked around the office to talk to people. Since it was his “down time” per se from cases, his lack of a task merely meant show up to the office for about an hour, and deeming it pointless, he left early at about 2:00 p.m. I suppose this is simply with law firms, as I have yet to hear this kind of freedom to leave work whenever you want from other jobs. I guess it just goes with the territory. The more you put in to achieve the license to practice, the less you will have to work as a result of that initial effort.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Feeling Guilty
In the good 6 months that I have been in China, never have I felt so compelled to return home immediately. Today, as I conversed with my younger sister over Skype, I was disturbed by the fact that I was completely oblivious to the fact that someone (who I shall leave unnamed) was not only insulting my father, but being condescending to him. It took all the strength I could muster to keep the tears brimming in my eyes from falling.
As I write this now, I am overwhelmed with emotion; I am wracked with guilt at not being able to defend my defenseless father, and yet in that guilt, I am also touched by my father's spiritual maturity. I feel guilty that I was not able to help more. While my father was being 侮辱ed (insulted), I was dilly-dallying my days away. While my father stressed over wording things in English and getting things figured out, I was thousands of miles across an ocean, unable to help. I think it was my sheer obliviousness to the matter and the fact that I did so little, that I may have actually contributed to the conflict happening that bothers me so much. For the first time, in this very moment, I wish I was back home so that I could have done something to help him.
But too much too late, and my guilt does little good. I have a mind to throw some colorful language at this individual that insulted my father so rudely, but that would be unprofessional and un-Christian-like. No, instead, the part where I am touched is the manner in which my father responded to this situation. I think my ire in this situation reveals my lack of maturity. I am too quick to speak, and too quick to anger, when the Bible (James) advises me to be slow to both. I am too quick to throw back insults at those that wrong me, when the Bible (I Peter) encourages me to bless those that seek to hurt me. I struggle and am still struggling with this, especially every morning when I cross the precarious road traffic in China. By some miracle I am alive after each extrication. But anyhow, instead of hurling back like-toned language, my father responded with sincerity. This individual had thrown out a completely "ridiculous" proposal, thinking no one would ever go for a deal like that, as it would not benefit my father. However, my father, thinking only of the client, accepted the offer, and I think it was this sincerity that touched even the individual that insulted my father.
This is what it means to witness to unbelievers through your life and actions, and not just words. I am very proud of my father for having such spiritual maturity in the way he handled this matter. I would've had some choice words for the individual, but no, I am very impressed by my father, and have much to learn from him. I have been extremely blessed by my Heavenly Father with such a wonderful earthly Father. I think with time, I have come to realize how little I know and how immature I truly am. All that people see as maturity is merely a facade, standards of which are wordly and not heavenly. I have much to learn.
As I write this now, I am overwhelmed with emotion; I am wracked with guilt at not being able to defend my defenseless father, and yet in that guilt, I am also touched by my father's spiritual maturity. I feel guilty that I was not able to help more. While my father was being 侮辱ed (insulted), I was dilly-dallying my days away. While my father stressed over wording things in English and getting things figured out, I was thousands of miles across an ocean, unable to help. I think it was my sheer obliviousness to the matter and the fact that I did so little, that I may have actually contributed to the conflict happening that bothers me so much. For the first time, in this very moment, I wish I was back home so that I could have done something to help him.
But too much too late, and my guilt does little good. I have a mind to throw some colorful language at this individual that insulted my father so rudely, but that would be unprofessional and un-Christian-like. No, instead, the part where I am touched is the manner in which my father responded to this situation. I think my ire in this situation reveals my lack of maturity. I am too quick to speak, and too quick to anger, when the Bible (James) advises me to be slow to both. I am too quick to throw back insults at those that wrong me, when the Bible (I Peter) encourages me to bless those that seek to hurt me. I struggle and am still struggling with this, especially every morning when I cross the precarious road traffic in China. By some miracle I am alive after each extrication. But anyhow, instead of hurling back like-toned language, my father responded with sincerity. This individual had thrown out a completely "ridiculous" proposal, thinking no one would ever go for a deal like that, as it would not benefit my father. However, my father, thinking only of the client, accepted the offer, and I think it was this sincerity that touched even the individual that insulted my father.
This is what it means to witness to unbelievers through your life and actions, and not just words. I am very proud of my father for having such spiritual maturity in the way he handled this matter. I would've had some choice words for the individual, but no, I am very impressed by my father, and have much to learn from him. I have been extremely blessed by my Heavenly Father with such a wonderful earthly Father. I think with time, I have come to realize how little I know and how immature I truly am. All that people see as maturity is merely a facade, standards of which are wordly and not heavenly. I have much to learn.
The Chinese Lawyer turned Marital Counselor
You would think that lawyers in general have a high status in modern society, but in China, sometimes it feels like they've been reduced to marital counselor, or at least a coach of some sort.
Half the time, I hear these calls to the legal staff's cell phones that go something like this: "Hello? How can I help you? No, no you can't sue your husband for that. His actions aren't liable for such a high offense, but you can bring this up with the police and file a report instead. No, no that will not get you any money. You want a divorce? Well, you'd still have to file this report first to establish that there is a problem. No, ma'am, *sigh*, here's what the law is about this..."
It's like these people have so many relationship issues, and when they don't know how to solve it, they say, "I want a divorce!" and take it up with a lawyer. Half the time, it's this whole, back and forth thing, "No, I don't want to talk to him. You tell him for me." "But ma'am, I can't do that as your lawyer. I would be compromising the integrity of the case. No, you will need to find someone else to accompany you as a witness." I feel bad for these lawyers. I mean, they spend so many years invested into studying the legal system, and probably have the greatest understanding of the law and have the greatest burden for justice, but all this becomes jaded as they are reduced to solving issues for people who neither care for justice nor understand the law. It's a tough situation, so I must say I admire their patience.
Half the time, I hear these calls to the legal staff's cell phones that go something like this: "Hello? How can I help you? No, no you can't sue your husband for that. His actions aren't liable for such a high offense, but you can bring this up with the police and file a report instead. No, no that will not get you any money. You want a divorce? Well, you'd still have to file this report first to establish that there is a problem. No, ma'am, *sigh*, here's what the law is about this..."
It's like these people have so many relationship issues, and when they don't know how to solve it, they say, "I want a divorce!" and take it up with a lawyer. Half the time, it's this whole, back and forth thing, "No, I don't want to talk to him. You tell him for me." "But ma'am, I can't do that as your lawyer. I would be compromising the integrity of the case. No, you will need to find someone else to accompany you as a witness." I feel bad for these lawyers. I mean, they spend so many years invested into studying the legal system, and probably have the greatest understanding of the law and have the greatest burden for justice, but all this becomes jaded as they are reduced to solving issues for people who neither care for justice nor understand the law. It's a tough situation, so I must say I admire their patience.
Noise Complaint
I must say that living with Kamla has brought me a lot of rare experiences. *laughs* There are always those situations that leave you feeling embarrassed and slightly indignant to mask that sudden flush in the cheeks, and today was just one of them.
I am reminded of the large population in China, the limited living space, and oh yes, paper-thin walls, I kid you not. Today, as Kamla was practicing her erhu after dinner, she was a good 10-15 minutes in, when I suddenly I heard the doorbell. My hearing may not be as good as it used to, but I can still pick up things like that. Our neighbor, kind soul that she is, gently asked us to stop playing the erhu and to be more quiet in the hallway when we leave. I apologized, feeling embarrassed, but not before feeling highly indignant. I had never complained about all the noise that came from their side of the house, and for crying out loud, it was only 9:10 p.m.
Granted with more level-headed thinking, many thanks to Kamla, I came to realize that it probably wasn't her fault. I could understand that she has a young girl who has school tomorrow, so is probably trying to go to bed at 9:00. We found it comical after thinking about it, that her daughter likely complained about the awful noise coming through the walls. Although the other likely half is that her husband was too irritated, wanted to rest in peace and quiet after a long day's work, and told his wife to shut the weird American neighbors up. Granted she was nice, but I still felt somewhat indignant until calming down some from feeling riled up.
I mean, I never complained about hearing her husband's snoring through the walls for the past 5-6 months. It's not like I could say, "Hi neighbor, I know it may seem like a bother, but could you ask your husband to stop snoring? I can hear him through the walls, and I can't fall sleep at night." Granted, there were quite a few nights where my brain stayed wide awake due to the constant reminder that I couldn't fall asleep yet, but my neighbor already was. I haven't mentioned a thing when I hear, "Thump, thump, thump, I scored!" as she and her daughter played indoor soccer between their kitchen and their living room. I never said anything about the intense argument I heard that was sure to end in domestic violence or a divorce (much crying and yelling). So I guess I was mildly irked by the fact that they were the first to make a noise complaint when I have kept quiet. However, I think overall, there is only one thing that I have come to the conclusion of: China needs soundproof walls. ;p
I am reminded of the large population in China, the limited living space, and oh yes, paper-thin walls, I kid you not. Today, as Kamla was practicing her erhu after dinner, she was a good 10-15 minutes in, when I suddenly I heard the doorbell. My hearing may not be as good as it used to, but I can still pick up things like that. Our neighbor, kind soul that she is, gently asked us to stop playing the erhu and to be more quiet in the hallway when we leave. I apologized, feeling embarrassed, but not before feeling highly indignant. I had never complained about all the noise that came from their side of the house, and for crying out loud, it was only 9:10 p.m.
Granted with more level-headed thinking, many thanks to Kamla, I came to realize that it probably wasn't her fault. I could understand that she has a young girl who has school tomorrow, so is probably trying to go to bed at 9:00. We found it comical after thinking about it, that her daughter likely complained about the awful noise coming through the walls. Although the other likely half is that her husband was too irritated, wanted to rest in peace and quiet after a long day's work, and told his wife to shut the weird American neighbors up. Granted she was nice, but I still felt somewhat indignant until calming down some from feeling riled up.
I mean, I never complained about hearing her husband's snoring through the walls for the past 5-6 months. It's not like I could say, "Hi neighbor, I know it may seem like a bother, but could you ask your husband to stop snoring? I can hear him through the walls, and I can't fall sleep at night." Granted, there were quite a few nights where my brain stayed wide awake due to the constant reminder that I couldn't fall asleep yet, but my neighbor already was. I haven't mentioned a thing when I hear, "Thump, thump, thump, I scored!" as she and her daughter played indoor soccer between their kitchen and their living room. I never said anything about the intense argument I heard that was sure to end in domestic violence or a divorce (much crying and yelling). So I guess I was mildly irked by the fact that they were the first to make a noise complaint when I have kept quiet. However, I think overall, there is only one thing that I have come to the conclusion of: China needs soundproof walls. ;p
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