by Xiaojuan Kang

 

This month is the Asian Heritage Month. Although I am a Canadian now, I would really like to talk about my country of birth – China. China is a large country comprising of 56 ethnic groups and over 1.4 billion people. Each region has a different culture which represents its unique national and regional character.

As an Asian Chinese woman, I would say Chinese women have special characters that represent their unique culture.

First, I will talk about my mother’s generation. As the generation of Baby Boomers in China, they were born with the New China, the People’s Republic of China. China just finished the flames of war, and prepared to welcome a new start. The economy was difficult during these years. Most people suffered food shortage, and unfortunately, there were many deaths during this period.

My mom was born in that era; she overcame many obstacles during her lifetime, but she was an open woman and kept lots of traditional Chinese culture.  My mom loved singing when she was young. She used to sing Beijing Opera in a culture troupe. These life experiences allowed her to create many beautiful memories. She also loved stitchwork. I still keep her stitchwork – it’s a memory that she left for us.

After her children were born, my mom used her whole passion and patience to take care of her children. Family was the most important thing in her whole life. I love the traditional food that she made for us, such as Chinese dumplings. Every time I eat dumplings, I will think of my mom. She was a great woman and will remain forever in my heart.

At the time of my generation, China had a huge transformation. China implemented the reform and opening-up policy. The economy developed quickly. Most people lived a normal life. Women in this generation developed a new thought. Education became more important than ever before. The life of a woman also carried new responsibilities, such as taking care of kids, taking care of family, social responsibility, and career. We are the beautiful, professional, sociable, and kind-hearted people in our generation.

In the new century, science and technology have developed to a new level. China developed faster than before, but it still keeps many of its traditional Chinese culture. The culture of Confucianism will forever remains in peoples’ minds. Although my daughter was born in Canada, they learned many traditional Chinese cultures from their parents. I hope it will be transmitted to the next generation.

 

Xiaojuan Kang