Sophie Steiner's experience of moving from Chicago to Shanghai a decade ago highlights the profound challenges of cultural adaptation. Initially confident in her ability to integrate, she faced a steep learning curve, discovering that in China, conformity to local customs was essential. Despite efforts to bridge cultural gaps—by learning the language and embracing local traditions—she often felt like an outsider, a 'laowai.' After a recent trip back to her hometown, Steiner felt alienated there as well, illustrating the complexities of belonging and identity in an increasingly globalized world.
The lesson came swiftly: China does not bend its will. Instead, one learns to adapt, to alter one's rhythm to the customs of this vast nation. I've found that the answer to most questions is merely, 'because China.'
No matter how many Chinese landmarks I visited, soap operas I watched, pop culture references I learned, or hours I spent practicing writing Chinese characters, I would forever be a laowai.
I was well-traveled and expected to settle in quickly, but it took longer than I anticipated.
On a recent trip back to my hometown in the Midwest, I felt like I didn't fit in there either.
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