A city which nurtures its traditions
Updated: 2016-02-19 08:46
By Mei Jia(China Daily)
|
|||||||||||
Xiong Qiang runs a teahouse in his family compound in the suburb of Chengdu.[Photo provided to China Daily] |
On the seventh day of Lunar New Year, which fell on Sunday, residents of Chengdu gathered at Du Fu's Thatched Cottage in the city's Qingyang district to recite poems and celebrate.
The custom has been followed for decades, and Qing Dynasty writer Fu Chongju (1875-1917), a Chengdu native, recorded it in his book An Overview on Chengdu.
In a city where traditions are alive and valued, Xiong Qiang happily speaks about his family values passed down through generations.
"It's about being authentic and always having goodwill towards others," the 52-year-old owner of the mid-sized farmhouse resort says.
"My father, being a teacher, always tried to inculcate these values in his four children. They're deeply rooted in our minds," says Xiong.
Xiong and his wife, a teacher, manage their compound containing a teahouse and restaurant Mei Lu in the southeastern suburb's Sansheng Flower Town, and these are values they follow even today.
The flower town is known for its horticulture business, scenery, and numerous farmhouses that have been turned into resorts. They are representative of the city, which aims to develop its leisure economy.
"I'd rather tell customers in advance that we offer only a set menu and charge a little bit more, which might put them off, rather than offering low-quality food at a lower cost," he says, adding that customers often appreciate his being upfront and accept his way.
Xiong's 20-year-old son skipped university and is devoted to starting an IT business.
The father finally supported the son's decision after lots of contemplation.
"But I told him the same thing my father told me - be credible and be kind in all circumstances," he says.
Xiong says he believes that people are born nice and kind, even despite the years of pervasive mutual distrust during the "cultural revolution" (1966-76).
"I don't resent anybody, and am always willing to help if necessary," he says.
It might be due to Xiong's family values, but his father, now 92, still enjoys life, which consists of two hours of computer games and two hours of reading daily.
As Xiong's wife says: "I'm really lucky to have a father-in-law like him. He's so easy-going, happy and kind and he even manages to turn his hospital stays into party time for the family."
meijia@chinadaily.com.cn
Related Stories
Lunar New Year's popularity in the US going to the moon 2016-02-18 12:16
Gansu sees baby boom at beginning of Lunar New Year 2016-02-18 09:12
Ties shine during Lunar New Year in US 2016-02-18 08:30
2.62 million visit Suzhou during lunar New Year holiday 2016-02-17 17:07
White House celebrate Lunar New Year 2016-02-17 10:30
Today's Top News
Stronger united Europe is 'in the interests of China'
Huawei to increase co-op with European partners
Turkey's Erdogan to fight forces behind bombing
Aston Martin to develop electric car with LeEco
Huawei bids to become 'Internet of Things' platform
Britain's Cameron defends EU deal
Sichuan opera proves a hit with UK audiences
WeChat to charge fees for digital wallet transfers
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Beijing theme park adds flavor to the Year of the Monkey |
China's role in Africa is 'exaggerated' |
Toward continuing 'entente cordiale' |
Famous rebel with the golden gaze |
Jack magic |
Artist shares Peony's secrets |