Sichuan Visit

當這次旅途行至四川地震山區，在臨時板房小學裡，從這些受災的小學生身上，絲毫感受不
到兩月前此地發生的災難，他們散發出的天真、活潑、自然，很快地融化我這位來自紐約人
僵硬的心。他們是如此的有生命力、沒有包袱，此刻內心有一股無法控制的激動，眼淚不禁
盈眶，在此刻感受大家的心都連接在一起。雖然我對他們所付出的是那么微不足道，但他們
回報給我的是一個有意義、充實的一天；我發現角色也對換了，在內心世界裡，我是一個災
民，這些小學生以他們的方式觸動了我。
在災區裡，居民不愿離開家園，也不坐等政府援助，就做起家園重建的工作，雖然是這么的
簡陋、克難，他們的刻苦耐勞堅持下去了。我感受到中國就像一個有道之士，在過去幾千年
歷史中，承受接連的災難、考驗及外來的沖擊，它堅持下去了。在北京奧運開幕式中，這個
歷史能量在節目中迸發出來，中國以一個全新角色站在世界舞臺，邁向二十一世紀。。。。

---- 国賓

I'm glad to have joined the unforgettable trip to China with Chien Kun this summer. Though
I live in the States, I have an affinity with China and its history in my heart. When our
journey came to Sichuan Province, in the mountainous area devastated by earthquakes in
May 2008, we visited a local elementary school reconstructed in a temporary location. In
meeting with children at the school, I had no impression of the earthquake that took place
here only two months ago. Feelings of innocence, vitality, and naturalness emanating
from the school children quickly dissolved my stiff New Yorker's heart. They are so full of
life, with no burden in their hearts. I was overwhelmed and couldn't help myself, as tears
filled my eyes. I felt we connected with each other in our hearts at that moment. I gave
very little to them, yet in return, they have made this day very special and meaningful for
me. They touched my heart with their lively presence. In that sense, I am instead like a
person stricken by calamity, as I carry such a burden in my heart.
In the earthquake stricken area, many locals did not abandon their homes, nor do they sit
and wait for government assistance. They start rebuilding on their own, despite the tough
situation. They overcome by perseverance. I feel China, like one with the virtues of Tao,
has endured incessant disasters, tests, and impact from foreign powers in its past
history. That enduring spirit and energy exploded in the opening ceremony of the Beijing
Olympic Games. China has redefined its role on the world stage and moves toward the
21st century.