Blossom of Youth

There is an old saying that goes like this, “The grass looks greener on the other side of the fence.” It means that other places often look better, more interesting than the place where you live. Nowadays, a large number of Chinese kids prefer to enjoy American food and Japanese movies. They are often heard to say to each other, “Let’s go to the KEC for dinner and then watch some Japanese cartoons!” Some people are worried when they see young Chinese buying Japanese cartoon books, watching Korean soap operas and even celebrating western holidays.

Foreign books and soap operas are good, but actually, Chinese writers and actors are just as good. As for holidays, Christmas is nice, but it can never have the meaning for Chinese that the Spring Festival has, and the West has nothing to compare with the Mid-Autumn Festival. Besides, China has lots of cool things that are unique to its culture, such as calligraphy, Beijing Opera and so on. And let’s not forget the part of Chinese culture I like best: its friendliness. Not all countries are as warm as China.

It’s good to enjoy other cultures and to learn from them, but they can never replace your own culture. It’s good to look on the other side of the fence, but make sure you take a good long look. You will find that the grass isn’t always greener.

Although some people become worried about that, I don’t think it necessary. Will we get more powerful without learning from other countries? Will Chinese people live more happily without American fast food? Besides, Chinese kids can learn about other cultures and have fun, but what is important is that they also need to learn more about their own culture and be proud of Chinese culture and of being Chinese.

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Most Americans take pride in inviting guests with open arms. What should you do if an American friend has invited you to visit his family? You've never been to an American home before, and you're not sure what to do. Should you take a gift? What time should you arrive or leave? How long should you stay? Take it easy. I’ll tell you all about it.

The question of whether or not to bring a gift often worries guests. Giving your host a gift is not just a social custom in some cultures—it's expected. But in American culture, a guest does not have to bring a gift. Of course, some people do bring a small gift for their host. Proper gifts might usually be flowers, candy or—if the family has small children—toys. If you choose not to bring a gift, don't worry. No one will even notice.

Plan to arrive on time, or call to tell your host that you will be late. When you've finished the meal, the host may invite everyone to move to the living room for dessert with tea or coffee. After an hour or so, it's about time to head for the door.

Americans usually like to invite guests ahead of time. Only very close friends visit the host unexpectedly without being invited. This is especially true if the guests want to stay for a few days. Here's one golden rule for house guests: short stays are best. Even relatives don’t usually stay for several weeks at a time. Your host family will appreciate our consideration (体贴), and they may even invite you back!