Yanwen’s blog

During my last meeting with one of my Korean students, she expressed concern about her daughter’s education. "We will go back to Korea in a few years. I'm afraid my daughter will struggle to adapt to schools there. She might lag behind in both English and Korean because her vocabulary and grammar in both languages aren't strong enough, even though she speaks English like a native."

This conversation made me think about the differences between the Korean and American education systems, their respective advantages and disadvantages, and how one might leverage the strengths of each while mitigating the drawbacks.

From what I’ve learned, the Korean education system shares similarities with the Chinese system in terms of its emphasis and methods. Both are rooted in the same cultural values and strong work ethic.

Firstly, like China, Koreans culturally place a high value on education and academic achievement. Education is seen as a key route to success, leading to significant pressure on students to perform well in school. The system is also exam-oriented, with students required to pass through multiple levels of testing.

Secondly, the curriculum in Korea is rigorous, with a strong focus on mathematics, science, and language studies, particularly English. For this, Korean students work very hard. Imagine if everyone stands up watching in a theatre, you have to stand up if you want to see the performance. So the children feel the pressure to perform well in school.

Thirdly, the learning methods in Korea, similar to those in China, emphasize rote memorization, drill practice, and standardized testing. The classroom environment is teacher-centered, with an expectation of respect and discipline from students.

In contrast, American children experience a more relaxed, fun-filled approach in public schools, which supposedly emphasize the holistic development of students. Academic performance is important, but so are other aspects like extracurricular activities, and social skills. The U.S. system embraces the idea that there are many paths to success, not just through traditional classroom learning. Creativity, critical thinking, and independent learning are strongly encouraged.

These differences explain why South Korea consistently ranks high in global education assessments like PISA, especially in mathematics and science.

On the other hand, the U.S. education system, with issues like inequality, shows more variability in academic outcomes, with some schools excelling while others fall behind.

Culturally, the two countries are vastly different. Korea values collective achievement and social harmony, viewing academic success as a reflection of family honor. Therefore, parental involvement in children's education is exceptionally high in Korea. In contrast, the U.S. emphasizes individual achievement, self-expression, and the pursuit of personal interests.

A Chinese saying goes, 尺有所短，寸有所长 (Chǐ yǒu suǒ duǎn, cùn yǒu suǒ cháng), meaning: "A foot may have its shortcoming, and an inch may have its strength." This implies that everything has its strengths and weaknesses. In this context, both the Korean and American education systems have their own advantages and disadvantages, and one must recognize and leverage the strengths while acknowledging the limitations.

Finally, in a country where everyone runs, you can’t just walk or lay flat (躺平, tǎng píng). While people may not always have the option to choose where they live or to experience the best of both worlds, they can strive to make the most of the opportunities available to them in any given moment. 

This mindset extends beyond education and can be a guiding principle in many areas of life, reminding us to embrace what we have and turn challenges into opportunities for personal growth.

Recently, I came across news about the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) initiating an anti-dumping investigation focused on low-speed passenger vehicles imported from China. These vehicles, including sightseeing cars, electric golf carts, and other personal transportation options like electric tricycles, are under scrutiny due to allegations that they are being sold in the U.S. at prices that beat local manufacturers. The investigation will assess these claims, potentially leading to the imposition of tariffs.

This investigation is part of a broader U.S. effort to address Chinese imports across various sectors. The anti-dumping duties could be significant, with margins potentially exceeding 376%.

International observers have expressed concern, as Chinese tricycles are highly competitive in many markets. For instance, in the delivery industry, FedEx in the United States developed its own electric tricycle a few years ago, which was significantly more expensive and less efficient than Chinese alternatives.

The colloquial term for these three-wheeled vehicles is 三蹦子 (sān bēng zi), referring to motorized tricycles commonly used for transportation in both rural and urban areas. These vehicles are popular due to their affordability and practicality.

Delving into the origins of China's tricycle industry reveals that Yanshi District in Luoyang City, Henan, is known as "China’s Tricycle Capital," producing nearly 40% of the country's tricycles. This local manufacturing industry has successfully expanded internationally, with Yanshi exporting 58,000 tricycles and 540,000 related components last year.

Henan is also home to many other significant export industries. One such industry is lab-grown diamonds, which are nearly indistinguishable from natural diamonds in terms of chemical composition, physical properties, and appearance. However, lab-grown diamonds are priced at only about 10% of their natural counterparts, and last year, they captured over half of the market share. Henan produces 80% of China's lab-grown diamonds.

Another industry from Henan’s small towns that has seen international success is violin manufacturing. Globally, 90% of violins are made in China, and over 80% of China’s mid-to-high-end violins come from Henan. Each year, 400,000 mid-to-high-end violins are produced here, with annual exports exceeding $20 million.

Lastly, Xuchang's wig industry stands out, with its products sold worldwide. Last year, Xuchang's wig exports reached 16.85 billion yuan, making it the top global producer.

Considering the flourishing productivity from just one province in China, I’m reminded of many articles from prestigious publications like The Economist, which have long predicted a decline in China's economy. Yet, the resilience and resourcefulness of the Chinese people continue to generate surprise and immense productivity on the global stage, challenging these forecasts and demonstrating the enduring strength and the richness of Chinese culture and industry.

A Chinese saying goes, 卧虎藏龙 (Wò hǔ cáng lóng), meaning "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon." This phrase describes hidden talents or potential that aren’t immediately visible to outsiders. It reflects how some may underestimate or overlook China’s economic strength, only to be surprised by the immense potential and capabilities that are now emerging on the global stage. This unexpected rise like 三蹦子 has even drawn the attention of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The quarter-life crisis is not a financial crisis. The first time I heard of this was from my son, who mentioned it in relation to his then-girlfriend. She had chosen a college major mainly for practical reasons, even though her true passion lay in art and architecture. Despite having a well-paid job and excelling in her role, she found no joy in her work. Just before turning 30, she decided to quit and started searching for what truly interested her.

Recently, I’ve noticed another type of quarter-life crisis affecting people around 30. Again, it’s not about struggling to advance in their careers, but rather about those who have settled comfortably into their positions, becoming stagnant and complacent. They no longer have the drive to learn new skills. They lose the sharpness and sensitivity to things that once excited them. They become indifferent to beauty and novelty, reacting to new technologies like seniors, slow to adapt. Many of them even begin to accumulate fat around their waists. They rely entirely on their limited and outdated experiences, believing that the future will mirror the present, coasting through life till retirement.

A Chinese saying captures this mindset well: 当一天和尚撞一天钟 (Dāng yī tiān héshàng zhuàng yī tiān zhōng), which means "Live like a monk for a day, ring the bell for a day." This phrase implies a minimal, disengaged approach to life, akin to just going through the motions without deeper investment.

However, unlike monks who embrace detachment from worldly concerns, regular people are not bound by such ascetic ideals. We are meant to engage fully with our passions and aspirations. 

Ultimately, keep in mind that the richness of human life lies above mere material comfort and financial stability. It comes from striving to grow, continuously learning and finding meanings, and contributing to the world. It’s about constantly seeking with renewal purpose and energy. By embracing curiosity, pursuing passions, and striving to make a difference, we engage with life’s deeper and broader dimensions that make us worthy being called Human beings.

Happy birthday to my youngest sister's son!

There are three things on my mind today.

First, our internet service was down since last Saturday. Both our internet and cell phone services are provided by Verizon. Yesterday, I nearly exhausted my cell phone data without realizing it and couldn’t get online to buy more. For a while, I felt very disconnected from the outside world, especially from my family in Beijing.

This took me back to when I first came to the U.S. in 1984. Back then, my family had to go to a distant telegraph office to make a long-distance call to me. It was very expensive at the time, and we were truly living in a disconnected age, separated by the vast Pacific.

Now, I find myself in a similar situation as my parents were when they sent me off to a faraway and unknown world. However, today’s mode of communication is far more advanced, and people are supposed to be more connected than they were 40 years ago. Yet, despite being physically closer to my children, with the internet being down, the feeling of disconnect persists.

By the way, a Verizon technician fixed the internet on Monday afternoon. He checked both the outside box and the inside equipment without finding the problem. After climbing up to inspect the high-hung wire, he left to investigate further. Eventually, he found the issue in our neighbor’s backyard—the low-hanging wire had become tangled with plant vines and was cut down by their trimmer.

Second thing, on the train to Manhattan, a young man who seemed like a recent migrant sat across from me. He was wearing a winter coat and carrying a bag, possibly his only possession. I took out a soft cloth to wipe my eyeglasses. He looked at me, and perhaps I reminded him of his distant family—his mother possibly struggling and hoping he could make a living in America and send money back home. I tried to recall if I was like this when I first came to the United States, but I couldn’t remember. At least, my family was better off than I was at that time.

Third thing, there’s Salem, my son’s cat. Salem has a weight problem, so they bought him diet food, a healthy choice. However, it’s not as tasty as the unhealthy treats he’s used to, so he absolutely refuses it, meowing loudly and angrily in protest. We also need to alternate between different flavors of canned food for him.

The issue is that the old Salem has been indulging in unhealthy food for so long that he’s grown accustomed to it. The switch to something healthier, though necessary, is hard for him to accept. Life would have been easier if he had been fed a healthy diet from a young age.

A Chinese saying goes, 习惯成自然 (xí guàn chéng zì rán), meaning "Habit becomes second nature." The saying emphasizes that habits, once formed, can become so ingrained that they feel like an inherent part of someone’s behavior. It captures how habits can shape actions and responses over time. In Salem's case, his reluctance to change his diet reflects a learned behavior rather than an unchangeable nature.

Raising pets shares some similarities with raising children, in that guardians need to instill good habits and behaviors early on. Old bad habits are difficult to break and often set the stage for big challenges later in life.

Our internet service was down when we returned home. After calling Verizon, I learned that the earliest a technician could come was Monday, meaning we’d be without internet for two full days. I’m currently dictating and editing on my phone.

On Saturday morning, my daughter came over, and we spent some time together shopping and having breakfast.

During our time together, we discussed the importance of dedicating more time to creating art and visiting museums to draw inspiration and nurture creativity. Like writing, the time invested in art creation is one of the best investments you can make in your future self.

She shared the joy of selling her artwork, which led us to talk about the added value that comes with creating art.

First, art serves as a powerful form of self-expression and can be deeply therapeutic. Engaging in creative activities can reduce stress, cheer you up, and provide a profound sense of accomplishment. These emotional benefits can have long-lasting positive effects on your overall well-being.

Second, consider the broader impact and legacy you leave behind. This is something people need to start thinking about earlier. Art has the unique power to inspire others and become part of your enduring legacy. The work you create today can influence and contribute to society, making your investment in art creation not only personally fulfilling but also socially significant.

Third, the time spent creating art also hones your skills that are transferable to other areas of life. Whether it’s problem-solving, attention to detail, or abstract thinking, these skills will benefit you in various future endeavors. A Chinese saying, 艺不压身 (yì bù yā shēn), meaning: Skill you possess is always useful. It suggests that the more skills or knowledge you accumulate, the better prepared you are for future challenges.

Finally, creating art demands focus and presence, which promotes mindfulness. This practice enhances your ability to stay present in other aspects of life, improving your future interactions and experiences.

In essence, engaging in art creation offers profound and multifaceted benefits. It’s not just about immediate satisfaction or monetary gain but about making a long-term investment in your future self.