秋高气爽 （qiu1gao1qi4shuang3）
It’s been a while, but here it goes.
Classes are in full swing right now, with our first midterms just around the corner.
The campus at Beida is absolutely amazing; besides the lake (未名胡), which is by the way a popular spot for smooching (mostly locals), there are rustic Chinese buildings, prominent maple trees and bicycles-galore. Every time I walk outside, I am reminded of how blessed I am to study here at this university. Winter is slowly creeping closer, too, but the weather has been capricious, one day brisk, the next day warm. But, one thing is certain, the skies have been remarkably clear. Autumn is here!
Recently I’ve started an independent study. I’m still working out the details, but so far I’ve decided that I will be studying China through the lens of team sports (most notably, basketball). It is no doubt that the Chinese have made significant strides in sports as of late—but, the fact remains that the Chinese still have a ways to go in team sports, most notably in basketball and soccer. It’s fascinating to see the rapid growth of China first hand; at the same time I think the question of whether this growth is sustainable long term can be ascertained through other mediums, such as sports. Anyways, I will keep you all posted on my findings.
While I am thoroughly enjoying my time here in Beijing, I can’t help to think about home often. Conversations like the ones below keep me young.
Intro: My Mom likes to test me often.
Mom: “Vin, what are the three things you are never supposed to do?”
Me: “Uhh… I’m not sure.”
Mom: “Okay, I’ll give you a hint, I’ve told you before.”
Me: *puzzled*
Mom: “Alright, I will tell you. Don’t do drugs. Don’t join a gang. And, don’t gamble.”
Me: “Err, okay, mom. I won’t.”
Mom: “Do you understanddd?”
