Entry is free - a culture of sharing

I have talked about how close the Chinese people are to each other. Especially in lifts, when queueing at intersections, when shopping and there's a sale on, on the streets, in lines for food stalls and at bars waiting for drinks but I have not mentioned how sharing they are.

A walk through any of the big parks first thing in the morning but especially on the weekends will show you what I mean.

They are people that like to learn and better themselves, they are also willing to share their learnings with others. They teach each other without question, without ridicule, embarrassment or expectation (of payment). It's a pleasure to see their collective energy to learn and culture of sharing.

The other great thing is how the large parks have little 'corners' (as they are often called) where common interests are shared. This makes for a wonderful environment and a pleasurable wander (even if a few things are a bit strange)

Let me share with you some of the 'culture' I have spotted so far.

Dancing in the streets (ballroom lessons)










The woodwind section in the rock garden














Solo singing
(I couldn't get a shot of the choral singing as the crowd was too big)

Card playing (this happens everywhere)

Top spinning (fun to watch when they get tangled)











Tai Chi (anyone can join in, no matter how small you are)














These people have posters and signs up. They are actually match making (for family and friends). An interesting angle on the theme of sharing.

A bit like advertising your children or friends children for marriage. (although arranged marriages are pretty old school now)

Badminton (any wonder they got medals at the Olympics)

Playing the... (thing with strings)

Entry to the park is free, so is the entertainment, the lessons, as are the smiles - all thanks to a culture of sharing.