I marvel at the energy and enthusiasm of the younger members of our crew. Keaton and Graham spent hours in the blazing sun surfing the waves in the southern most city of Kenting. After a 3 hour drive home they wanted to bike the city and dragged me out for ice-cream at 10:00 pm. It feels as if the western youth may be a bit riskier than their Taiwanese counterparts. Even the “ruffian” scooter riders who drive too fast and refuse to strap their helmets are a bit tame compared to what we endure from our dare-devil children back home (at least as far as I can see from my limited vantage point). Well, enough about the young… it also strikes me that most workers, from the office worker to the dentist to the hairdresser, we pass by in their storefronts are working incredibly hard and long hours. They are still at their trades late into the night. Some I am told take a 4 hour mid-day break and return to work for the late afternoon and early evening. Most, I think need to work long hours to keep up with the high cost of living here. I am told that the workers at the McDonald’s around the corner make only 60NT or about $2.00 (US) pay.
Each day is a new adventure for us. There is so much to take in and absorb. I am learning more about Taoism (and its familiar Yin and Yang symbol) and Buddhism (sadly we have not encountered a monk as of yet… they were so prevalent in Cambodia during our travels 10 years ago). I am told that the peaceful way of life (low crime rate) has much to do with a concern not to bring imbalance or negative karma upon oneself. A new friend also shared that the reverence for extended families also positively impacts the nature of the Taiwanese people. This sense of oneness and connection with the world in all its sacredness is calming to me. I wonder what life has in store today?
Pagoda on Lotus Lake
Buddhist Temple
Surfing at Jiaulashui beach
Southern most point of Taiwan
Three K's