A lesson in the realities of life

When our son learned his exam marks weren't high enough to enter a top university, the 18-year-old got a part time job at a ceramics shop, delivering bowls and plates to restaurants.

Throughout the summer vacation, he toiled between 7:30 am and 6 pm. Aside from a free lunch - a few pieces of fat and plenty of spice - he earned 10 yuan ($1.46) a day.

But we all believe the experience has been priceless.