FAMILY IS NUMBER ONE: WFWP HACKENSACK, NJ LEARNS ABOUT VALUES IN CHINA
"Made in China." What does that invoke in your imagination? Well, China not only exports many goods, but also places a high priority on family and family values.
On May 20, WFWP Hackensack, NJ was blessed to hear from Bella Zhao, a housewife from Beijing, China who has been living in America for nine years. She graduated with a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Golden Gate University in San Francisco. Bella shared how Chinese people are very loyal to their mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, and other family members, and they look forward to family reunions with all their heart. Because parents in China are only allowed to have 1 child, they deeply love and support their children through college and in their married life. Participants asked Bella many questions about Chinese life, tradition, and philosophy.
We learned about 15 words in Mandarin and received a first class paper cutting lesson. We learned how to create beautiful designs with simply a square piece of paper and a pair of scissors. Paper crafts are a popular activity in China and many people pass the time by cutting beautiful designs and flowers.
Finally, Olivia Vozza and WFWP Hackensack, NJ Chairwoman Cynthia Nakai presented two men, Richard Schwartz and Anthony Renna of Little Ferry, NJ, with a gift card thanking them for their volunteer cleaning efforts at the local library. In WFWP, we encourage volunteering and living for the sake of others.
We left with a new understanding of family relationships and respect in China. We hope to convene again in a month.
Reflection from participant, Olivia Vozza
On May 20, 2018, my daughter, Arabel, and I attended the WFWP Hackensack meeting at the La Havana 59 Restaurant. We had an enjoyable afternoon with Chairwoman Cynthia Nakai's guests, Bella Zhao, Richard, and Anthony. Bella's contribution to the meeting was both informative and heartfelt. As a native of China, her pride in her country’s advancement in the 21st Century is obvious. It was shocking to realize how quickly China has progressed since the death of Chairman Mao.
She shared the secret of how Chinese people manage to survive in the most impoverished circumstances: they value the family so much. Even if there are elderly people who never had children of their own, surrounding family members within the extended family will make sure to take care of them. The family is the most valuable thing they have. If they have children, all family members help to make sure they receive all opportunities possible. If the parent is in need, all siblings are involved in assisting them. No matter the age of their children, the parent will provide emotional and financial support. It was remarkably refreshing and inspiring to hear her perspective.
