I feel that as long as I am authentically nice with no chips on my shoulders, people will tend to gravitate towards me wherever I go. Everywhere I go, I've made friends and got their contact info and even added me on their social media profile. Even people who don't speak English. They would just use a translator to communicate with me. These people are from different races, countries, continents, religions, and economic levels, richest to the very poor. Even kids and pets just approach me just like that. Kids would talk to me in their own language, and some dogs would even just come up to me and play with me. Also just today, I was surprised to get a nice handwritten card from someone I just met and had a few minutes of conversation, welcoming me in her city, considering that she barely speaks any English, and I also barely speak Mandarin. Some would open up and tell me their most private Stories, even when they just met me as if I were their best friend. I can't believe they are able to trust me so easily. I learn so much about a country just by listening to its people's Stories. I just love these experiences. It's something that I treasure. That's why I love living in different countries and learning about different cultures and their histories. I just want to be a world citizen. It's a much better world. These experiences are just priceless. They're authentic, no BS. Very unconditional. That's why I have so much empathy For people.
Lots of Criticism about Me For Posting About My Positive Experience in China, So Here's My Response to Them
Oh boy, let me tell you about the amazing phenomenon of people losing respect for others. It's absolutely mind-blowing! Apparently, if someone dares to have a different opinion, experience, belief, or God forbid, their own thoughts, these lovely individuals just can't help but unleash their verbal attacks. And let me tell you, they're so negative and desperate with their criticism!
You won't believe this, but they actually act as if they have all the knowledge in the universe. But here's the kicker: their profound wisdom often stems from the almighty internet. Oh yes, the internet, the ultimate source of unbiased and unquestionable truth. Because clearly, these enlightened souls are the only ones who have access to this revolutionary tool known as Google.
Of course, we can always rely on the internet for reliable and unbiased information, right? I mean, it's not like there's any hidden agenda behind all the articles we read. Nope, not at all. It's all perfectly legitimate and trustworthy. Trust me, I'm an expert on this, just like every other person on the planet who has probably read the same thing!
But hey, let me tell you something. Experience, my friend, is a whole different ballgame. It's the real deal. It's not just words on a screen, it's actual interaction with the world. IRL, as the cool kids say. So forget about those pesky opinions and knowledge from the internet, because experience is the ultimate authority. Clearly, what we feel and observe in our own lives is infinitely more valuable than any silly information found online.
So, in conclusion, isn't it simply fascinating how people attack and belittle others for having different thoughts or relying on internet knowledge? It truly is a joy to witness the great minds of our time engaging in such logical and respectful debates. Keep up the good work, guys.
Time To Continue my Adventure Where I've Left Off
It's totally fine if not everyone likes you. What really counts is that you're surrounded by the right people who get you and share your sensibility. They're the ones who support you unconditionally, without any expectations in return, and help you grow into an even better person. To be with the right tribe that feels like real family.
It's incredible how my friends are over here in China. Even when I have to be away from them, they never fail to remember and provide their unwavering support, as if I were right there with them.
So, the time has come for me to embark on a big travel adventure I had to put on hold for three years due to the pandemic restrictions! However, it's a necessary evil, but now I need to pick up where I left off with some exciting projects that got put on hold during the pandemic. Time to get going now that everything is back to normal now!
It's time to really focus and get those projects done, so I can take my work to the next level. Excellence isn't achieved by simply staying still - it's all about pushing myself to the limit!
China - A Great Canvas for Photographers and Filmmakers
China is a country that offers endless opportunities for photographers and filmmakers. From its majestic landscapes to its vibrant culture and history, there is always something new and exciting to capture.
As a photographer, China offers a rich tapestry of subjects to photograph. From the bustling streets of Shanghai to the serene beauty of the countryside, there is no shortage of interesting scenes to capture. The Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Warriors, and the Forbidden City are just a few of the iconic landmarks that are worth photographing. Additionally, the vibrant street life, traditional festivals, and colorful costumes provide ample opportunities to capture unique cultural moments.
China is also a filmmaker's dream come true. With its diverse landscapes, ancient and modern architecture, and rich cultural traditions, there is no shortage of visual inspiration. Filmmakers can explore everything from the bustling streets of Beijing to the tranquil rice terraces of Guilin. Furthermore, China's rich history offers a wealth of material for period dramas and historical documentaries. From the Qin Dynasty to the Cultural Revolution, there are countless stories waiting to be told.
However, exploring China as a photographer and filmmaker comes with its challenges. The sheer size and diversity of the country can be overwhelming, so it's important to plan and prioritize what to capture. Navigating China's crowded streets and tourist attractions can also be challenging, so it's essential to be patient and persistent to capture the perfect shot.
Another challenge is navigating the cultural and political landscape. China has strict regulations on media production and distribution, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the relevant laws and regulations. Be respectful of local customs and traditions and always seek permission when photographing or filming people.
Despite these challenges, exploring China as a photographer and a filmmaker can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The country's rich culture, history, and natural beauty offer endless opportunities for creative expression. So grab your camera or your film equipment, and get ready to capture the beauty and diversity of China. #adayinthelifeinchina #adayinthelifeasaphotographer #adayinthelifeasfilmmaker #adayinthelifeinasia #exploreanddiscover #christopherrevon
It's Okay Not to Be Liked
It's better to be liked by people who have the same sensibilities as you do, rather than by everyone else. Even if my own family doesn't like me, it's okay. If you're gonna like me only because I've got something you want or as long as I give you what you want, well you're not worth my time. At least I know what I'm worth to you. On this side of the world, I've learned that real unconditional relationship/friendship (almost like a family) is the one that builds you up, not bring you down. I believe it has something to do with the East Asian culture (China, South Korea, Japan). Mind you, this is very different from some Southeast Asian culture. I can see how the two philosophies: Confucianism and Buddhism (no, Buddhism is not a religion contrary to what everyone believes) influence a society. History plays a big part in how people are influenced too.
Podcast About Travel Advice, Photography and Making Videos/Filmmaking
I've been getting more and more serious about vlogging as I continue my travel all over Asia so far. I've been to and lived in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, South Korea, Indonesia and Mainland China, so I want to share my experience about living in those places. But now I want to do a podcast so I can tell more about my travel experience and with that experience, I can share some travel advice. I will also teach some photography and and also on how to make videos videos (filmmaking). Of course it's something that you should do when you travel so you can share your experience and also have a digital record of your memories. And I hope you subscribe like or follow any or all of my social media channels, especially my Facebook, my YouTube and my Podcast channels since these are the platforms I'm going to use to broadcast my podcast. Thanks and see you soon.
Some Americans Criticize The Chinese in China, so Here's my Take on It
People can criticize and joke around about someone or another group of people, but that's all they can do while a person who works hard, uses his brain, skills and creativity and does action, creates positive and productive results. Words are just words. Action speaks louder than words. That person doesn't have to say anything. And most of the time, he doesn't say anything because it's a waste of words and energy. He just chooses to use that time and energy to enjoy what he's accomplished.
People Are Afraid of Anything That They Don't Know About
Some differences between China and the U.S. are:
1. Cultural differences: China has a long history and a unique cultural heritage that is distinct from Western cultures like the U.S. Chinese values, traditions, and customs may differ greatly from those in the U.S.
2. Political systems: China is a communist country with a one-party system, while the U.S. is a democratic country with a multi-party system.
3. Economic systems: China has a state-controlled, mixed economy with elements of socialism and capitalism, while the U.S. has a market-based economy with a strong emphasis on capitalism.
4. Population: China has the largest population in the world, while the U.S. has the third-largest population. This difference in population size has implications for various aspects of society, including infrastructure, resources, and public services.
5. Language: The primary language spoken in China is Mandarin Chinese, while English is the main language spoken in the U.S. This language difference can create communication barriers and impact intercultural interactions.
6. Education systems: China places a strong emphasis on education and has a highly competitive education system. In contrast, the U.S. has a more diverse education system with various approaches to teaching and learning.
7. Religious beliefs: China has a mix of religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity, while the U.S. is predominantly Christian but also has a diverse religious landscape.
8. Social norms: There may be differences in social norms and etiquette between the two countries. For example, concepts of personal space, greetings, and table manners may vary.
Another Reason Why China Is Standing Up Against the West
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, several parts of China were colonized by Western powers. Here are some prominent examples:
1. Hong Kong: Hong Kong was a British colony from 1841 until 1997 when it was returned to Chinese sovereignty. It was an important British trading port and developed into a major financial hub.
2. Macau: Macau was a Portuguese colony from the 16th century until 1999. It served as a trading post and later as a gambling and entertainment destination.
3. Shanghai International Settlement: The Shanghai International Settlement was a territory in Shanghai that was jointly administered by several Western powers, including the British, French, and American, from 1863 to 1941. It was an important center for trade and commerce.
4. Tianjin Concession: The Tianjin Concession was an area in Tianjin that was under the control of several European countries, including Britain, France, and Germany, from 1860 to 1947. It was a major trading and commercial center.
It's important to note that these territories have since been returned to Chinese control, and Hong Kong and Macau are now special administrative regions with a high degree of autonomy.
In addition to the regions mentioned earlier, several other parts of China were colonized or came under the influence of Western powers during the 19th and 20th centuries. Here are some examples:
1. Treaty Ports: Following the Opium Wars in the mid-19th century, China was forced to open several ports to foreign trade. These treaty ports became areas of foreign influence. Some significant treaty ports included Guangzhou, Xiamen, Ningbo, and Hankou.
2. Weihaiwei: Weihaiwei, located in present-day Shandong Province, was a leased territory under British control from 1898 to 1930. It served as a naval base for the Royal Navy.
3. Taiwan: Taiwan was under the control of the Dutch Empire from 1624 to 1662, followed by the Spanish Empire until 1642. After that, it came under Chinese rule. However, Taiwan was later ceded to Japan in 1895 following the First Sino-Japanese War, and it remained under Japanese control until the end of World War II.
4. Qingdao: Qingdao, located in Shandong Province, was leased to Germany in 1898. It served as a German colony until it was occupied by Japan during World War I and later returned to China in 1922.
5. Shandong Peninsula: The Shandong Peninsula saw a significant amount of colonization and influence by various Western powers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Apart from Qingdao and Weihaiwei, multiple countries, including Germany, Russia, and Japan, held different parts of the region at various times.
It is worth noting that China's colonization and foreign influence were not limited to Western powers, and countries like Japan also played a significant role in exerting control over parts of China during this period.
Why China Has to Be on the World Stage Now And Cannot Take the Backseat Anymore
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the British East India Company played a significant role in the opium trade with China. The British had a high demand for tea, silk, and porcelain from China, but they struggled to find goods to trade with the Chinese merchants. To address this trade imbalance, the British East India Company began to smuggle opium from British-controlled India into China.
Opium, derived from the poppy plant, was grown and produced in India under British control. The British East India Company provided licenses to British and Indian merchants to cultivate and trade opium. The opium was then smuggled into China, where it gained popularity among the Chinese population.
The demand for opium grew rapidly in China, leading to widespread addiction. The Chinese government became concerned about the detrimental effects of opium on its population and attempted to restrict and prohibit its trade. However, the British continued smuggling opium, leading to tensions between the two nations.
These tensions eventually escalated, leading to the Opium Wars. The First Opium War took place from 1839 to 1842, during which the British military, supported by its navy, defeated the Chinese forces. This resulted in the signing of the Treaty of Nanjing in 1842, which forced China to cede Hong Kong to the British and open several treaty ports for trade.
The opium trade continued to expand, and a second conflict, known as the Second Opium War (1856-1860), occurred. This war resulted in further territorial concessions and trade privileges for the British, as well as the legalization of opium trade by China.
The opium trade played a significant role in shaping Western powers' influence in China and had profound social, economic, and political consequences in both countries. It caused widespread addiction and social problems in China, while also fueling British economic growth and dominance in the region.
The "Century of Humiliation" is a term often used in China to describe the period roughly spanning from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century. This term encompasses a series of traumatic events and foreign invasions that greatly weakened and humiliated China, marking a period of national humiliation and suffering.
The origins of this period can be traced back to the Opium Wars between China and Britain, which resulted in China's defeat and forced concessions to Western powers. Following the Opium Wars, China faced a series of unequal treaties, territorial losses, and foreign dominance. The Treaty of Nanjing, for example, forced the Qing dynasty to pay indemnities, open up additional treaty ports, grant extraterritoriality to British citizens, and cede Hong Kong to Britain.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, China experienced further territorial losses and invasions. The country was divided into spheres of influence by various foreign powers, including Germany, Russia, France, and Japan. The Boxer Rebellion of 1900, an uprising against foreign influence, was brutally suppressed by international forces, further undermining China's sovereignty.
The Qing dynasty's rule weakened, leading to the fall of the imperial system in 1911 with the establishment of the Republic of China. However, the new republic faced numerous challenges, including warlordism, foreign interference, and Japanese aggression.
The Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945) during World War II inflicted significant damage on China. Japanese forces launched a full-scale invasion, committing various atrocities such as the infamous Nanjing Massacre. The war resulted in millions of Chinese casualties and further humiliation.
However, the end of World War II marked a turning point for China. The Chinese Communist Party, led by Mao Zedong, emerged victorious over the Nationalists in the Chinese Civil War, establishing the People's Republic of China in 1949.
The Century of Humiliation deeply impacted China's national psyche, fostering a deep sense of resentment and determination to rejuvenate the country. It served as a rallying cry for Chinese nationalism and influenced the policies and rhetoric of subsequent leaders, including Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping, who sought to restore China's strength and assert its role on the global stage.
Today, the memory of the Century of Humiliation remains influential in Chinese society and government, reinforcing the narrative of China's rise and its commitment to never again allowing foreign powers to dominate or humiliate the nation.
Is China that bad? Why the West is against China so much?
Watch the video below and then read this blog after.
I know about this too. Not because someone from here told me. We never talk about politics here. It's based on my research, observation and experience in this country as well, but this lady said it so much better. When I came to the US, I could tell no one was happy that I am doing well and ask how I am, considering I have got Long Covid, even from my own family. Instead, I was confronted with these arguments, but I was able to answer well, and I believe I had won most arguments. Ignorance might be bliss but it is also just blatant stupidity that does not get its sources from different points of view. In the end, when they don't get to win an argument, they resort to a very racist or self-righteous religious or who is better remark. And that, my friend, is what the real root of the hate is. Nothing to do really with politics but racism, envy and religious self-righteousness, I am sorry to say it since I was born a Christian, of Christianity.
The truth of the matter is when I first decided to move to China, someone close to me was so against it. She was saying all these negative things not just about its government but its people, but of course, I am an independent thinker. I have to see it for myself, and a lot of things she said. Of course, some people or majority of people still believe their own truths as long as it serves their own point of view, their own sensibility. You can never win an argument against them. You can show them a red apple, but they will argue that it is pink when it's obviously red. Why? Because their mind is already deep rooted on their mind that it is red. Maybe that's how they grew up to believe.
I am not into politics nor about how some types of people behave or go about their lives, their religions or cultures, but when I went to the US, I was put in that situation in which I had to deal with it.
The way I see it. Live your life. Try to become better than you were the day before. Care about what you have some control of and not about something you have no control of. Have empathy and respectful towards other people, even those who don't share the same faith as you do, the same values as you do.
Writing in my Spiritual Home
Ernest Hemingway: "There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed."
Taking a break from Writing and Exploring and Discovering another Neighborhood in this City. I love this City of Hangzhou China. It is my spiritual home.
Racism From a White Guy in Singapore
No, this is not in the West. Not the US. Or any other Western country. This is Singapore, The most multi-racial country with most major religions represented living in harmony side by side, second to Malaysia, in Asia. It is composed of Chinese, Malays and Indians with a lot of Foreigners from the West. Its majority is Ethnic Chinese with its government mostly composed of Chinese-Malaysians. Few months ago, I also saw a woman from the West who told the driver of the bus she was on to go back to China, and the funny thing about it was that she was in China. The racism has become more blatant and rampant now than before. I felt it when I was back in the US. It's not as hidden as the way it was before. KINDNESS AND RESPECT ARE OUT. Just so everyone knows, I've encountered this kind of situation quite few times in the US, Canada and Europe. It would be a lot if I tell my stories. It's dehumanizing. It makes you less of a human being. It feels like you're an animal. For the most part, I remain calm and just smile. Somehow I remember my friend here telling me after going through the same thing in Europe, all you have to do is remain calm and do your best work. Because for the most part, they're all just words, and what you produce by doing your best work is what counts. Their words don't achieve anything.
I Don't Believe in Any Religion
I don't believe in any religion as a true religion. What matters is that people know compassion, empathy, kindness, respect and bevolence towards other human beings and to care more about their own path to enlightenment and self-improvement in order to have a harmonious and peaceful co-existence with everyone. To lay claim to the monopoly on truth and salvation (and that's what Christianity tends to focus on) is just exclusivity that results in a war, conflict and even ethnic cleansing that almost wiped out a lot of races in this world. And religion was even used to justify a lot of atrocities towards other human beings. It is about your actions and your behaviour that matter, not what club (religion, race, country you belong to) you belong to. Mind you, this is my own individualistic opinion based on my observation, my knowledge of world history and my experience traveling and experiencing different cultures and religions and as a person who was born and baptized as a Christian.
Experience Being In Los Angeles California USA After Living In China and Asia for So Many Years Now.
When I went to visit LA to see my Mom, the conversation I had with people seems to tend towards negativity. For example, the focus on the people I live with and the country I live in. As if they want to put me in a different reality, that's more imaginary than real. Well, I know my reality, not what you get from books, religions, politics, the media, the news or the Internet. I live it. I experience it. I interact with it. I touch it with my hands. I smell it with my nose. I see it with my eyes. I hear it with my ears. Not from a safe distance but right there upfront. A broad experience is what I have. I immerse myself in my own environment and fully experience everything from all sides with no judgement and with empathy. I don't let anything around me influence my own perception. For sure, I would rather prefer to be liked and to be surrounded by people with the same sensibilities as I do and as positive as I am. Anyway who cares about being liked? It's much better when people do things for you without expecting anything in return rather than just being liked. Negativity is such a poison that just consumes the mind and the way a person lives. On the other hand, positivity and empathy enrich a person to live with such harmony and peace of mind and makes you much more productive and beneficial to the society, the world. People should focus on how to become a better human being rather than focusing on other people or other things. The hatred, the jealousy, the judgemental attitude, the self-centered view of themselves (as if the world revolves around them and the place they consider their home and that they're better than others, either with their looks, intelligent level, social status, religion,etc). It's way too much. I could never ever live in that kind of environment. Life should be peaceful and enjoyed. These people should look at themselves and see themselves for what they truly are, imperfect creatures, who need to do better and to improve themselves, to become better human beings. I am glad that I am surrounded by people who share the same sensibilities as I do. Here's something I've learned about people. For the most part, so many people nowadays are self-righteous and have too much pride. And this makes them terrible human beings. You can never win an argument with them. As long as your statement, no matter how true it is, does not fit their own narrative, you will never win an argument. I just let go and tell them that it only matters to me if it directly affects me. More likely most stuff we have no control of, and if we do have the control, do you have the time and the energy for it instead of just talking about it, which is a waste of time? Has anyone seen anything change just by talking about it instead of doing something about it? Well, let me know. Well, at least when I want something or a change, I do something about it. Talk is cheap.
Vacation in Los Angeles California from Hangzhou China
After more than 4 Years of not visiting my Mom in Los Angeles CA, I was able to come and see her. While over here, I was able to Experience using the public transportation and should be able to do a vlog comparing the public transportation in China and the USA.
Go check my YouTube: www.youtube.com/christopherrevon
I Have Been Back in Hangzhou, China after 4 Years of Being Away (I Lived Here For Four Years)
Please subscribe. I upload at least one short everyday, and I will have more long form videos shot/edited and uploaded about my experience living in different parts of the world and about my Photography and Film and Video projects.
Comparison Between Hong Kong and Thailand.
Just like any other cities, there are a lot of things you can do in this city. Unfortunately this city is pretty much an urban jungle, so it doesn't have much nature, except for the parks. Definitely the city of Hong Kong wins that one with its 70 percent nature: beaches, mountains, islands, hiking trails, bike trails, parks, etc. But what HK does not have is a better street markets with street performers, delicious street food, handcrafted stuff, etc. Now Bangkok wins that one. As for nature, the whole country of Thailand definitely has great natural landscape, and it can give the city of Hong Kong a run for its money, but then again, it is an unfair match since Hong Kong is a city, and Thailand is a country.
I Finally Left Hong Kong
So after a year-and-a-half in the Hong Kong, I finally left. It's been a great experience. And I fell in love with the city of Hong Kong some more, the longer I stayed. But now, it's time for me to focus on what I really need to do. That is to resume doing my photography and film/video projects which I set out to do before the pandemic. I just had to put them on hold due to the pandemic. Now I have to complete them. And at the same time, keep on discovering and exploring places in the world and finally to be with someone I love.
I Am Leaving Hong Kong. Where to? That’s a Surprise.
Hong Kong is that city that's full of possibilities because it has everything, not just an urban landscape but 70 percent nature with more than 200 islands, beaches, mountains, countless hiking trails, bike paths, countless parks with a lot of amenities such as basketball courts, volleyball courts, football fields, some with skateboard parks, swimming pools, etc. I could never run out of subjects to film and photograph here so it is also a photographer's and filmmaker's paradise. I will definitely miss it, but I am sure I will come back at least as a tourist. I've actually visited this city so many times even before I started living here. For sure, as a resident, you discover more of this city than being a tourist. There's so much to explore and discover here. Now it is time for me to explore and discover what's out there in the world now. At least here in Asia or the rest of China, which I still have so much to explore and discover. Where do I go next? Make sure to follow, subscribe and like one of my social media channels to get updated.