Fluttering flags and songs of praise Zhang Wenfang

As I set foot in Da Mag village, the first thing I noticed was that the Chinese national flag fluttered over almost every house.

What I didn't know was that I would hear and see many more expressions of love and gratitude during my 10-day stay.

"It was China that accepted us and established the village so we could have a home. I often tell my children that nothing can compare with the country's help, and they should never forget that, no matter what they do or where they go. We're very grateful to China," said Tashi Dhodrub, a 50-year-old blacksmith.

Lhakpa Dondrub, 24, who has taught at the village kindergarten for almost five years, said: "We have lived happy lives since obtaining Chinese nationality in 2003. There is nothing to worry about, and you often see smiles on the faces of the elders and the children. I really appreciate what the country has done for us."

Dradul, another young teacher, told me: "Nobody cared about us in the past. Now China is my country and I am Chinese. I feel proud to be Chinese. We no longer need to live the way we used to. Without China, I can't imagine what I would be doing now and what kind of life I might have. I know this year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of New China, and I hope the nation becomes stronger and evermore prosperous."

"Thanks China" were the words I heard most frequently during my visit.

The villagers have even rewritten the lyrics of a folk song to express their feelings about their new lives and becoming Chinese citizens.

During every festival and important occasion, the villagers dress in colorful ethnic costumes and perform the song along with traditional dances.

Since 2012, the village has held a flag-raising ceremony every Monday.

After I participated in the ceremony on May 13, a senior fetched his household registration, or hukou, book and ID card from his home. He proudly showed them to me, saying they were extremely important to him.

The villagers really cherish everything related to the country.

(China Daily Global 05/29/2019 page5)