Closing Thoughts
A trip to China requires a spirt of adventure and a willingness to do something different. Those who have that spirit are rewarded with a brief insight into an ancient and different culture that is changing rapidly.
The trip offers a wonder filled blend of history and change. The history includes bitter lessons that are part of the living memory about the chaos that can follow the overthrow of the existing order. The change is fueled by the gains that have been made and the promises seen on television and represented by the overseas Chinese who have the money and freedom to travel.
Part of the success of our bicycle trip came from the insights of our guide, Su. In 1988 he bicycled across America with a group of Chinese. On our trip he was able to use that experience to offer insights about America and provide comparisons with China. If China can find the courage to allow young people to see the world for themselves and can use insightful and experienced people like Su wisely, both China and the world will be well served.
We wouldn't have seen the country of China if we hadn't climbed the Great Wall and visited the Forbidden City and the Terra Cotta Warriors. We wouldn't have seen and enjoyed being with the people of China if we hadn't bicycled. Both are China.
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