Recently, I visited China - a country that has never been on my list of places to visit but when the opportunity presents itself, one must accept it's potential. Not knowing what to expect, and having very little to do with the planning, I was sure that what I was about to experience was going to be a true adventure.
Traveling with the Hamilton's Children's Choir, this trip was about to teach me many lesson's that I was not expecting. Organizing my thoughts about the trip has proven to be somewhat challenging as it all seems overwhelming, but below are some of my reflections.
1. China - a country so unique and interesting from it's physical beauty to the mentality of its citizens. Although my pictures below will not stand as proof, understanding the sheer volume of people is inexplicable.
2. The freedoms we face each day become invisible until plunged into a new society. Things like Facebook, Twitter, and CNN are simple things we take for granted. Thankfully Instagram still worked.
3. The sun is a revitalizing and powerful energy. When not present, it will affect your emotions, your outlook, and not to mention, all 6oo photographs from your vacation.
4. Food is nourishment. It can be as simple as a bowl of rice or as interesting as a platter of duck meat, garnished with the duck's head. Needless to say, I mastered the chopsticks and rice became my best friend.
In all seriousness, beauty takes all forms. Whether it be through the physical attributes of something, the vocal sounds of a group singing or the cultural characteristics of a nation, elegance is present in everything that we encounter. I feel fortunate to have had this opportunity.
Canton Tower, Guangzhou, China
