Almost one year ago the big earthquake happened in Sichuan province (May 12, 2008). I'm just watching on the news now of couples and families that have tried to re-build their lives. The CCTV news crew interviewed a couple who got married today and was taking pictures in front of their home, well, what is left of their home. It was mostly destroyed last year. Some mother's are about to give birth and some are remembering loosing their children this time last year. Other school aged children were sent to Guangdong province to continue school, as theirs was destroyed. Make-shift communities have been set up - and people are living with just the bare necessities. When I was watching the look on people's faces...hope was the most evident expression. I couldn't take my eyes off their beautiful faces.
One thing that particularly struck me was watching a group of mothers getting to see their children via video from their schools in Guangdong province, and tears filled their eyes as they said, "Mommy is so proud of you, you will soon be able to return to your school here and we can be together."
I remember hearing a story last year about a young mother who lost both her children in the quake. As one was still a new born, this was absolutely heartbreaking. At the time, there were also a number of young ones who had lost their parents. What made this woman remarkable is that she ended up breast feeding a number of these parentless children. This, to me, epitomizes the heart of the Chinese character. Soley thinking of the needs of others before their own. I guess I think especially think of mother's doing this for their children.
In the midst of loosing your own children, but giving yourself to other children, I guess makes me think about the deep love of a mother. China has really brought this to my attention. One thing I am just starting to understand about Chinese culture is how deeply they respect and love their mother. Children's connection to their mother is very strong, remaining into adulthood. She is a kind of life force in the family. In traditional culture, songs and dances have been composed for the sole purpose of honoring mothers. I think we have some what lost this kind of reverence for our mothers in Western society.
It is Mother's Day...and I miss my mom. My relationship with her has changed over the last few years. I see her as a person now, with vulnerability and beauty. I'm so proud of her for supporting me in my dream of living in other countries.
Happy Mother's Day to the beautiful, vibrant, and talented women who give us life.
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