Behold, the wonder of the Chinese New Year is upon us. We are exiting the year of the sheep and ushering in the year of the monkey. The school grounds are deserted and my existence in Tengzhou feels hollow. I have completed my work here and my move to Beijing is bearing down upon me and those I have known while here.

They tried to hinder my advance across the northern Chinese frontier of course. They made last ditch efforts promising higher salaries and school funded excursions throughout the province. I didn't waver, however, my banner did not fall. My resolution to escape what has become mundane proved too strong for them. Although they were armed with Chinese charm showcased in smiles and banquets, I stood my ground and stirred my desire to not offend with a staunch rebuttal of, "I can't. Thank you all the same."

And now, the final bell has rung and the students have trapsed over concrete paths on their way to enjoy their Spring Festival holiday. I am left with the residue of a semester spent in an anonymous Chinese city and I feel accomplishment rush over me in waves. I have lived with the Chinese in a real way, outside of brazen developement brought on by western capital. I've existed in the clutches of basic needs that are satisfied with nothing more than a full stomach and a home to return to. Families pool funds to provide a basic education, and family bonds are fortified at the communal dinner table. I've watched the beauty of simple life transpire and I'm ready to leave it. My selfishness makes me twinge as I take from a place that has only unseen things to offer. Unseen but felt like a dead weight dropped from upon high.

Given a way to show my thankfulness, I'd do it. My friendship shared over jars of steaming tea in one room abodes is all that I can give though. The gift of my culture would harm a society not ready or willing to accept it. I can only observe and smile. My time here is done, there is little left to do, indeed there is nothing left to do but depart.

I will make the journey into the northern capitol and relish the fresh sights and sounds. The sprawling metropolis that has absorbed the tides of change and has blossomed into a hotbed of culture and newness. It is there that I can spread my wings for one last final assault before striking camp and heading home. Taking with me the spoils that will neither rust nor mold.