Breaking Stereotypes: A Chinese Girl’s Adventures at Sea
Have you ever been locked into a preconceived notion that the behavior of a certain culture or group of people is fixed? As I embarked on this unknown journey, I deeply felt the importance of breaking these stereotypes.
In the eyes of many people, Chinese people seem to have an innate fear of the sun and the ocean. We are afraid of tanning, afraid of swimming in the sea, and seem to prefer taking pictures and rushing during travel. However, when I stepped on a surfboard and faced the wind and waves, I discovered how one-sided these concepts were.
During my days in Bali, I heard a voice: "Don't swim upstream, let go." But I chose differently. I swim upstream, not to challenge the waves, but to challenge the stereotypes about Chinese people. I spent eight years thinking, why do we do that? Why can’t we enjoy the ocean and have fun getting a tan?
In China, we are taught to fit in with the group and not to have our own opinions. But when I went abroad, I found that the world is so vast and diverse. I began to learn to be curious, learn to be humble, and learn to adapt to different cultures. I am grateful for this journey, which has made me a more complete and authentic version of myself.
Now, when I travel to a foreign country, people no longer guess where I come from. Because they discovered that I am not the Chinese who is afraid of the sun and the sea, but a brave, curious and energetic traveler. I am proud to say that I am Chinese, but I am also a global citizen.
Everyone has their own story and every culture is unique in its own way. Let us abandon stereotypes and use an open mind to accept and understand the diversity of this world. I believe that when we start asking and listening, we will hear more great stories and enjoy more interesting discussions. Let us work together to create a better future.
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