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Quake-struck populace unbowed by tragedy
By Bian Yi (China Daily)
Updated: 2009-08-24 07:54
 Despite its terrible cost in human lives and the extensive damage caused across the region, last year's Sichuan earthquake did, once again, highlight the positive-thinking, yet hardy, characteristics of the robustly-wrought citizens of Chengdu. The people of the capital city of southwest China's Sichuan province have long prided themselves on their positive attitudes, sense of humor and ability to achieve a perfect balance between ancient traditions and modern culture in their day-to-day lives. Once dubbed the "Land of Abundance", the city has benefited from pleasant weather and comfortable living conditions for thousands of years. Even last year's devastating earthquake could not dent the city and the spirit of the city, even though it is located only 73 km away from the village of Wenchuan, the very epicenter of the quake. Writing after the quake, one local author expressed it well: "I find that Chengdu's geologic structure is very like the mentality of the city's populace: despite occasional upheavals, they settle down with good grace." Visitors are frequently impressed by the easygoing and humorous nature of the local people, even during the earthquake.
One anecdote from the time of the quake has circulated widely on-line. According to the possibly apocryphal tale, a man was rescued after being buried under the debris for more 50 hours. Though severely injured, as soon as he saw the journalists, he asked if their laptops could connect with the internet and urged: "Can you check out the stock market for me?" Some people compare Chengdu with Paris - with both cities boasting a unique character and ambience, alongside a highly individual culture. Amazed by the countless world famous historical and cultural icons to be found throughout the ancient capital, visitors also find the city full of modern elements from all over of the world. Female tourists here can shop at the luxurious Louis Vuitton boutique one minute then, just minutes later, dine on traditional hotpot served alfresco by street vendors in the gateway of some 700-year old building. Here in Chengdu, Chinese traditional culture and modern civilization seem to co-exist in perfect harmony. Local people here truly believe in the benefits of a relaxed lifestyle. They maintain leisure is the default mode of life, whilst work is but a passing aberration. They enjoy a unique way of life, one that involves a singular social code, a refined philosophy and a healthy emphasis on recreation. Some compare the populace of Chengdu to a goose cruising serenely across the water, but with its feet below-the-waterline discretely, pumping away enthusiastically. Drinking tea, eating hotpot and playing mah-jong segue seamlessly between networking and not working for the people of Chengdu, ensuring the city retains a unique aura that combines tranquility and industry. (China Daily 08/24/2009 page6) |
