A renewed me: my renewed sense of China

Renewed Sense of Touch

In this sentimental part of the essay, the sense of “touch” being referred transcends the literal meaning. It goes beyond a simple “touch”.

I am a type of person who treasures a lot the people I meet. My China experience has been a venue for me to come across different people: my good friends, my teachers, and my best friend Wu Quan, his family and friends.

The International Cultural Exchange School of Fudan University was a platform for me to not only study Chinese culture, language, and society but also to cultivate lasting friendships with Chinese people and foreigners alike. I cannot forget Benny, Kento, Sangu, Gabriel, and Lisa. Benny is a resident from the Chinese mainland; Gabriel is a Hong Kong resident; Lisa is a Taiwan resident; while Kento and Sangu are Japanese. They have been brothers and sisters to me even until now. My only birthday celebrated in China last April 11, 2010 was so memorable because of them. They arranged a surprise birthday party for me and were together with me as we explored Shanghai and bonded a lot. At present, the friendship is going strong because we keep on contacting and greeting one another whenever there’s a Chinese holiday being celebrated.

Another set of people to whom I’m so indebted is composed of my teachers. They have not just been mentors but also parents to me. Actually, some of them and I have treated one another as family. More than learning Chinese culture, language, and society, they shared their true selves with us outside the class. Ties of no pretensions and wisdom define our relationship. This has made me appreciate Chinese people in general.