Better Than Expected.

I had many expectations when it came to travelling to China.  One of the most conflicting was whether I could maintain being a vegetarian.  I knew it would be hard before I came, but the reality was even harder.  It is virtually impossible to remain meat-free in China.  I have encountered several situations where I have been thwarted at maintaining a meat-free diet.  For example, our hosts will treat us to lunch, where Chinese tradition means one person will order the dishes for everyone, often without ever consulting us.  So I'm left with either refusing these dishes, too much for my English politeness, or trying to eat as little meat as possible.  Other situations find me eating a dish that seems meat-free, then without warning, surprise meat attack!

A previous UMSL student had told us that a vegetarian on the last trip had been able to remain meat-free.  Now, unless they ate at the dorms every night, which they may have, there is another factor vegetarians have to consider here.  The Chinese cook everything in animal fat!  So much so, that I'm pretty sure the animal fat, is cooked, in animal fat.  So, even if it has no meat in it, it was most likely cooked in meat.  Another common element in Chinese cooking is oyster sauce.  This once again virtually dashes any chance of staying vegetarian.  So, after a couple of guilt-ridden weeks, to maintain some type of sanity, I have resigned myself to eating fish where needed, and not worrying about whether food was cooked in animal fat, etc.  Being able to control my diet here is impossible.  Unless I limit my experiences and daily routine, in such a manner that will reduce my enjoyment of the whole experience.  I have no desire to eat every meal in my deary dorm!  I will repent for my sins, once I'm back in America.

Another element that I was completely in the dark about before I came, was the way in which the children would accept me.  Well, I have found they have accepted me with great fondness and warmth.  The high school students in particular, have offered me their friendship.  I have never met such honest, friendly people.  I can say without a doubt, that I will be truly heart broken when I leave.  I can never in a million years imagine a class of Western students embracing me with such endearing friendship.  The friendship of the Chinese people in general has been overwhelming.  I spent a semester at my internship school in America, and over three months had about four or five teachers talk to me.  Here all the teachers go out of their way to make you welcome.  They bring you food, invite you to eat with them, help you with problems, and generally take pleasure in helping you, and becoming your friend.  It is deeply touching.  I feel sad, that I know it would be different if they were in my situation in the West.