Ever thought that Peru and China might share more than just a spot in APEC? 🤔 Meet María, a Peruvian sinologist who embarked on a journey to China and discovered surprising cultural parallels that bridge the vast Pacific Ocean.
Discovering Common Threads
María, fascinated by Chinese culture since her teens, decided to study sinology—a deep dive into Chinese language, history, and society. Upon arriving in Beijing, she was struck by the familiar warmth of community life and traditions that echoed those back home in Peru.
Festivals and Family Ties
From the importance of family gatherings during festivals to the vibrant celebrations filled with music and dance, María noticed that both cultures place a high value on togetherness and heritage. “Celebrating the Spring Festival here reminds me of our own Inti Raymi,” she shared. “There’s a shared joy in honoring our ancestors and embracing communal bonds.”
Food: A Delicious Connection
🍲 And let’s talk about food! María found that both Peruvian and Chinese cuisines are rich, diverse, and central to social life. “Sitting around a table, sharing dishes with friends and family—it’s a universal language,” she laughed.
Youth Bridging the Gap
The younger generations in both countries are increasingly curious about each other’s cultures. Through social media and exchange programs, they’re finding common ground and fostering mutual understanding. “It’s amazing how a meme or a music video can spark conversations across continents!” María exclaimed.
A Message of Unity
María’s experience highlights the underlying connections that tie different cultures together. “Despite the distance, we share values of community, respect, and joy,” she reflected. “It’s a reminder that we’re all part of a global family.”
So next time you think of cultures oceans apart, remember María’s journey and consider how much we might have in common. 🌍✨
Reference(s):
I'm from APEC: Peruvian sinologist sees cultural similarities in China
cgtn.com