When Dutch student Kelson Teo embarked on his journey to study law at Tsinghua University in Beijing, he didn’t anticipate the profound impact Chinese culture would have on him. Before settling into his new academic life, Teo participated in a cultural exchange program called \”Quest for Roots\”, which took him to the historic city of Xinzheng in central China’s Henan Province.
\”Although I only visited a few sites, I was deeply impressed by the rich and time-honored history of the area,\” Teo shared. The program offered him a glimpse into China’s ancient past, but it was the visit to the renowned Shaolin Temple that left an indelible mark on him.
At Shaolin Temple, famous worldwide as the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu, Teo was amazed by the discipline and perseverance of the young practitioners. \”They would train incessantly in sweltering heat without taking a single sip of water,\” he marveled. \”It truly exuded the spirit of Chinese martial arts.\”
Witnessing the dedication of the youth at Shaolin Temple inspired Teo to delve deeper into Chinese culture. \”Their commitment to mastery and their resilience are qualities I aspire to incorporate into my own life,\” he said. \”It’s not just about physical strength but also about mental fortitude.\”
As Teo begins his studies at Tsinghua University, he carries with him the lessons learned from his cultural immersion. \”China has so much to offer beyond its economic development,\” he noted. \”Understanding its cultural roots enriches my perspective not only as a student but also as a global citizen.\”
Teo hopes to share his experiences with fellow students and encourages others to engage with different cultures. \”Stepping out of your comfort zone opens up new horizons,\” he said. \”I’m grateful for the opportunity to be here and to learn from such a rich heritage.\”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
