"Starving"

I remember many years ago as a child, my mother would say to us "don't throw your dinner in the trash, people in China are starving". Well, I would say that they are still starving....to achieve the dream. I have been so impressed with the level of dedication from all of the college students that we have met this week. I have spent every night at the library because it is the only place that has reliable, free Wifi. Every night that I was at the library, which included Friday and Saturday, the library was packed with students studying. When I say that the students were studying, I mean that they were really studying. There was no goofing around, no "scoping" for someone of the opposite sex (like we used to do), it was 100% dedication. These students know that the dream is within their grasp and they will stop at nothing to get it. 

We had the opportunity to tour many of the different schools on campus. The first couple of schools- nursing, engineering (HVAC, automotive, ceramics) were not all that impressive. In fact, down deep I felt a bit sorry for the students here. It wasn't until we went to the Supply Chain and Logistics school that I was blown away. These people are serious about being competitive internationally. There were many very practical rooms within the school such as the "international negotiations table", the dinner table to highlight the differences between Chinese and Western dining and the logistics room that simulated a product being taken from the factory and put all the way on a plane or boat. These students are getting first-hand experience on what needs to happen in an international environment. I have not seen anything like it up until this moment. So, I would say that "Yes, China is starving. It is starving to be recognized as serious global player and it will stop at nothing to receive that recognition." 

Exercise and tough talk

It has been interesting the last few days to see the difference in East vs. West. Yesterday, there was the difference in exercise habits when I noticed a few Americans sprinting along on their morning run. Each man was running at his own pace and in his own little world. On the other hand, all along my route there were Chinese exercising in at least a pair - playing tennis or badminton or in a group. I thought that this very nicely illustrated the differences in culture. 

Today, we were in meetings with staff and students and the interesting event was when the director stated that the students weren't good enough to go to Harvard or Stanford and that they needed to set their sights much lower. Now, it's probably true that most would not get into either if those schools but I couldn't believe that at least one didn't have a chance. This kind of blunt, almost negative, talk would not be something that would go over very well in U.S. schools. 

Traveling at 400 km

Today's post will be short and sweet. We took a high speed train from the airport to Shanghai- 40 miles, 7 minutes. So I ask, which country is the developing country? The El or the Metra can't get me downtown in 7 minutes from 40 miles away! 

"Where ya been…China?"

How many times in my life have I used something like "Where ya been, China?" or "Where did you park, China?" or "Where did you go, China?". I like to tell people when they ask me where I live, "China" which means "far from where we are right now". All of these expressions are meant to be dramatic. And while it's true, China is a long way from Chicago, I think that these expressions are more than just about distance but difference. No one would deny that China is much different culturally than the U.S. China is very much a collectivist society where the point is to blend into the group as best you can. Being a superstar or calling attention to oneself is looked down upon. Yet,these differences seem to be just the engine that is propelling China forward. I'm curious to understand more about this aspect of the Chinese culture and the impact on the economy. I expect to experience a people who are very welcoming and eager to share their culture. I'm confident that I won't be disappointed. I can't wait to answer the next person who asks "Where ya been, China?" and I will be able to confidently say "yes, and you have to see it to believe it!"

Right place, right time!

Sometimes it's about being in the right place at the right time. Today was one of those days. Today, July 9th is the Feast of San Pancrazio, the Patron Saint of Taormina. 

We were on our way home when we wandered down to the church of the city namesake, San Pancrazio. A full mass was just about to start so we stayed. It was a neat experience to be outside attending mass before a big procession. Everyone was there including the mayor! 

After mass, a bunch of men from the parish took the statue around the town as part of the procession. The local band came to the church and helped to lead the procession. 

This experience was very neat for me especially because we don't really have anything like this in the U.S. We certainly try very hard to keep church and state separate. 

It definitely was a great cultural experience! 

"It does not exist that..."

"It does not exist that you come to Italy and don't come to Sicily". These were the words, directly translated, when I told my Sicilian friend that I was coming to Italy this summer and I didn't know if I was going to see her. For the last few months, I would recall her email and think "who in their right mind would deny a Sicilian woman after that kind of "request""?! 

Well, I've made it to Sicily and all I can say is "I'm glad I gave into her demand". As the bus slowly approached the familiar area of Taormina, I could feel my level of anticipation rising rapidly. When I finally got off the bus and saw her standing there, all we could do is hug, kiss and cry! 

We came back to her house and it was like I've never left.  We had a great time catching up. Now, don't think that catching up means going back a year. No, I'm only talking about a month which is the longest we've gone without talking and the only reason it's been a month is because the last two weeks I didn't have Internet access. 

The crowning touch of our first few hours together- she pulled out a Diet Coke and gave it to me after dinner! She remembered that last year I had to have my addiction every night so she made sure to have one chilled and ready to go for me tonight. And that beautiful little gesture,  my friends, is a sign of Sicilian love. 

The 4th of July Tigulian style

Last night, I had the opportunity to watch a fireworks display on July 3rd from a boat on the Tigulian coast. It was interesting to me that the display was on the 3rd. I asked around trying to find out what the show was in honor of, if anything. No one seemed to know with certainty. 

I couldn't help but wonder if the awesome display of fireworks wasn't in some way a tribute to the U.S. It's true that most Italians have an affinity for the U.S. The Italians that I talked to who were born around World War II make no bones about how the "U.S. saved Italy". It gives me great pride to hear such kind words from people who live in another part of the world. So many times we say "Why do we need to be the police officer for the world?". Well I would say as good of reason as any is because the world counts on the U.S. to be the last hope. When real people from other parts of the world say to you "if it weren't for your country, I don't know where we would be." It really does put things in perspective. 

God Bless America- the land that I love for so many reasons! We are definitely not perfect but there many around the world that love us and what we stand for- imperfections and all!

Passeggiata

What is it with Italy and the passeggiata? I find myself longing for my evening stroll when I'm here. It's very strange. I'll run in the morning like I usually do and then, in the evening I feel the need to go for a stroll. I take a passeggiata before dinner and after. Sure, I enjoy the exercise but it's more than that. I like to see other people walking about on their evening stroll. Occaisionally, I'll even do a little eavesdropping to see what the latest topic of conversation is. I love it when I run into a couple with their children in tow. It takes me back in time to before we had high-tech games and the Internet and families actually spent quality time together in the evening rather than gulping down their meal and heading for the favorite electronic toy. 

The Italian mother

Much has been said about the Italian mom-this week I got to experience it for better or worse ;-)

Last night at dinner, I couldn't think about taking another bite of my food. My host mom wouldn't take no for an answer. The result- let's just say it wasn't pretty. I don't know that I'll ever be able to have panna cotta again! 

This morning I woke up to her demanding my laundry! Why don't you give me your laundry, Lisa? " oh Maria, I couldn't!". Long story short, for the first time in almost 40 years someone besides me is doing my laundry! I'm not sure how I feel about that. When I told her that most kids in the U.S. start doing laundry as soon as they're able to reach the knob to turn on the washer. She asked " the boys too?!". Yes, the boys too. We are all equal :-) 

Efficient Italy?!

This weekend I had the opportunity to go to Cinque Terre and almost had a heart attack. I will explain.

Cinque Terre is definitely a beautiful place and can take your breath away but that's not why I felt like I was going to have a heart attack. 

Cinque Terre is definitely a challenge to get up and down the steep hills but that's not why I felt like I was going to have a heart attack. I'm fit and can maneuver those hills with ease. 

I almost had a heart attack at the cluster that is the Italian train system. Never have I experienced such chaos in a public transportation system! There are self service machines that are so cumbersome they practically want a sample of your blood type! It takes at least 6 minutes to purchase your ticket assuming the machine is cooperative! On Saturday, I was trying to go from Monterosso- the first stop in the Cinque Terre - back towards Genova. The only self service machine was broken. This is a very touristy area and the fact that they only have one machine is mind-boggling! I waited in line ( with my music blaring on my iPhone so as not to want to kill someone) while the customers in front of me debated " should I go to Milan or maybe Rome" - in the meanwhile the rest of us stood there like idiots! It's true, I love so much about this country but the one thing I can do without is the inefficiencies! 

Stereotypes set straight!

The other day we were having a lively conversation about stereotypes when my teacher and classmates all said "We love Americans". Now, mind you, my classmates are a French couple and of course, my teacher is Italian. I wasn't all that surprised by my teacher's response but I was shocked at the French couple. The couple flat out said "your country saved us." Wow, it was so good to hear that. So often we hear "the French don't appreciate what we did for them". This couple couldn't have been more convincing to the contrary. The French couple confirmed that Parisians are "special" and even the French people aren't crazy about them :-)

I also thought it interesting that the Italian teacher said "My name is Maria but when my mother named me she fully intended that I would be called "Mary" because of her love of the Americans". By the way, these three people were all in their late 60s so they were born right after WWII ended. 

It's about trust...

Here I am in Italy, again! It still amazes me that someone like me who gets bored so easily could still be infatuated with this country given how many times I've been here. I was thinking earlier today- what will I post about given that I've been here so many times that it almost doesn't seem "foreign" to me. And then, as it usually does, something happened. 

I sit here typing this post in a room, an office really, that is completely empty and has been for at least an hour. This would not be news except that the hour is currently 2:45 pm. Immediately, what comes to mind is "it must be nice, all the Italians living la vita bella done with a day's work by 1:30". Trust me, that thought did cross my mind. And then, another thought came right after that and it was "wow! I don't know how many U.S. businesses would allow a complete stranger to stay as long as they like in an office". 

Now, it's true. There aren't any trade secrets laying around but there are a few computers and a lot of audio/visual equipment. I suppose, if something were to happen then it would be a different story and I would no longer feel the hospitality of the Italian culture but the opposite! For now, I'm very grateful that these people are generous enough to allow me the luxury of working from their offices for a few hours. It literally means the world to me! 

Italy here I come....

This morning when I was running, the song "I'm proud to be an American" came on my iPhone. It was interesting timing as I've just completed my two week stint in Scandinavia and I am preparing for my vacation in Italy. I thought about just how appropriate this song was at the moment. I do love traveling especially in Italy. I love the history, the people, the beautiful langauge and of course, the delicious food. However,  as the song goes "I'm proud to be an American" and there really isn't anywhere else I'd rather be. So...here's to some beautiful experiences in Italy for this very American gal!

Free lunch!

Who said there is no such thing as a free lunch? We had a terrific one today courtesy of IKEA. That's right, we ate lunch at the IKEA headquarters in Sweden and it was good! A few interesting observations- they would pay for our main meal and beverage but if we wanted any sweets, we were on our own. The other surprising item- there was beer or at least a "near beer" as a beverage selection?! Difference in culture. 

Branding fashion

It's no secret, there are certain topics that really light me up. Travel is definitely one but even more than travel, it's clothes! Today we went to the Danish Design Institute where we had a discussion on what the  Scandinavian Design Industry, especially clothes, is doing to improve sustainaiblity. 

It's an interesting concept- branding Scandinavian design as the most sustainable. It is definitely a niche that they can claim, no one else has it. When we think of haute couture we think of French and Italian designers like Chanel, Hermes, Prada and Versace. When we think of American designers we think of high quality designers such as Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger. However, when we think of Scandinavian designers not too many come to mind. It was exciting to see that not only did this industry recognize that they had a branding problem but that they correctly identified an area that they can definitely claim as their niche!

Flag Day in Denmark!

I found out late in the day that I, in fact, didn't miss Flag Day. Yes, it's true that the U.S. celebrates flag day on June 14th and I did miss that. June 15th happens to be Flag Day in Denmark and lo and behold, I was here to see it. Of course, I had no idea that today was Flag Day until my aunt, who is a crack librarian, sent me an email to remind me :-) There is a nice story about the significance of the Danish flag. Here it is: The Danish flag "Dannebrog" is the oldest flag in the World. It came out of the sky in the year 1219 at June 15, during King Valdemar´s fight in Estonia

Too close for comfort

We arrived in Copenhagen to find our accomodations a bit "cozy" and not in a good way! Now, I realize that European standards and U.S. standards are quite different but when you are asked to share a full bed with someone you just met at the beginning of the week, that's pushing it. 

I try not to be an "ugly American" but there are some things that are just not acceptable. This was one of them. 

Now I know....

My first week in Scandinavia has been very interesting. This part of the world has never been someplace that I've thought much about since I have no family connection here. What I've discovered about the Swedes is that they are very hospitable. They like to talk- I think that they could rival the Irish in spinning a story. It's also been interesting to see where "Minnesota Nice" comes from. Anyone who's ever spent much time in Minnesota knows, the people are very pleasant and really don't like to make a scene too much. The same could be said about Sweden. I think I heard a car beep for the first time after being here four days! As a Chicagoan, that seems incredible to me!

A little fun with words.....

I love photos, it's true! I especially love taking photos of oddities. One such photo was something I saw on the bus the other day. I was sitting towards the front and saw the sign "Brandslackare". The marketer in me immediately kicked into over drive. I figured that "brandslackare" didn't mean what I read it for literally - a brand that is sub par. I walked around for the next two days wondering "what in the world could a brandslackare be?". Today, I saw a sign and immediately knew- a brandslackare is a fire extinguisher. I like my story better about a subpar brand. Knowing what a brandslackare is, won't deter me from having a little fun with it in my business classes. I may create a gag award of "brandslackare" for the student who is best at putting out fires in their respective groups ! 

Sweden shares their bread

As I headed into Stockholm on the high speed train, I read how the average person in Stockholm pays 59% of their income to taxes. When I read this figure, I let out a gasp! How could anyone function in an environment where more than have of what you make, the government takes?! Then I read further that although it is a conservative country, they are very progressive in social welfare. To me, that is almost schizophrenic. How could a country be both?! Sweden is both and seems to be doing it well. 

I was taken aback when I went to McDonald's and saw row after row of tables with 8 seats each at them. I was there at a slow time so I didn't have to be " forced" to sit with seven other people I didn't know. However, I did imagine what it would be like to share a meal with a bunch of people I didn't know. I didn't like the feeling that came over me when I thought about it. I don't want to share my meal with a stranger under just about any circumstances and yet, we can say that in Sweden they are not opposed to literally or figuratively share their meal with others whether it's giving 59% of their income for taxes or breaking bread in the company of seven unknown people. 

Prof. C is going green?!

I'm about to embark on yet another trip. This time it's a combination of work/pleasure trip. First stop- Scandinavia for a faculty development trip on Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability. Now, before anyone who knows me starts to laugh about this, let me tell you about what I've been up to in my classes. Ever since I've started teaching I've had some sort of sustainability project whether it was supporting a budding entrepreneur in a developing part of the world or having students create projects to feed the hungry. My deeper interest in sustainability came this past school year as I had a "green entrepreneur" as part of my Advisory board. I started to see things from a much different perspective. I've started to do things differently in my daily life- less plastic, even more recycling. In fact, this morning when I went to dump my garbage in a public trash can (shh, don't tell anyone :-) I only dumped the garbage and took the plastic bag home and put it in my recycle bin. I know, I shouldn't have dumped my garbage in a public can but at least I recycled. It has been said that every trip changes a person in some way. I fully expect this trip to be one that opens my eyes to innovative possibilities on how we as a society, businesses and governments can do well by doing good. Stay tuned….

Other stereotypes...

As my trip comes to a close, I was thinking about stereotypes that were busted wide open this week. Things that we are 'sure of' that may not be the case. One of the biggest discoveries that I made this week is that there are many Mexicans that don't have any idea how to dance- not only the salsa but other fairly common Latin dances like the cha-cha. Why is this a surprise? Well, this is a country known for it's music and passion for dance. I was taken aback the other day when I was teaching the locals a few steps just to get them through the dance! Another stereotype that was challenged this week- the openess of the culture. I had a nice stay with a host family this week but I cannot say that I felt the warm fuzzies. This is the third time that I've stayed in Mexico and I've found the families to be pretty much the same- kind but reserved. Finally, the last stereotype was that Mexican men are assertive. Based on my experience this week, I would still contend that this is true. At first I thought it was just men wanting to sell their goods that were trying to engage me but then, I had random men walk up to me and start talking to me that were not in the service travel industry. It was such a strange experience to have so many men try to engage with me. Overall, my experience in Mexico was a very positive experience. I've learned more about the culture and history. The trip has made me want to explore Mexico in more detail and that, I believe, is a good thing.

"Signs"...

In the last few days, I've encountered signs that made me pause. The first was a help wanted sign which would definitely not be allowed in the U.S. It read "help wanted- dishwasher, female between the ages of 18 - 35". I thought it was interesting because in the U.S. we have laws that are supposed to protect applicants from being discriminated against. But isn't that just window dressing? Can't a potential employer tell by your work history and your name approximately how old you are and if you a are a man or a woman? Don't get me wrong, I am all for a color-blind, gender neutral, equal opportunity for young and old society. It just seems to me that why shouldn't we get to ask for what we want? There are reasons that a stock clerk job is more suited for someone 18 - 29 years old. They are stronger and probably have more "pep". 

The second sign was at the grocery store today. It had the items in the aisle listed in Spanish and in English. I wonder how many people who complain about Walmart or Target listing signs in Spanish and English would complain if they were here in Mexico trying to buy a box of cereal. You see, business doesn't care about where you come from, they just care that your money is good. This may sound harsh but it's reality and because of this reality, they are going to do whatever possible to make sure you know where and how to spend it. So, it's not a matter of "catering" to one group or another- businesses will do what they have to do to help you spend your money. The bottom line is the bottom line!

Donkeys, parking spots and understanding cultures

This morning on my run, I ran into "picture perfect" moments that I believe illustrate why I love to travel. The first, I was running past the local supermarket chain when I saw a donkey "parked" outside. I don't run with my glasses on so I had to get fairly close to confirm it was, in fact, a donkey and not a horse. Sure as shootin'....it was a donkey parked on the Main Street that runs along the beach. For me, it was a "fun" discovery. I would never imagine that I'd see a donkey on my morning run. Fast-forward a few blocks....I'm finishing my run and there on a side street that leads to the main entrance of the beach was a parking spot being saved by buckets. I know this routine because in Chicago, we do the same thing with freshly shoveled parking spots. People break out the brooms, chairs and whatever else they can find to ensure that some bum doesn't take their spot after they spent an hour cleaning it out. It then dawned on me, these two incidents really are an excellent metaphor for people in general. No, I'm not going to say what you might think (although it is a coincidence I didn't think about before...hmm..donkeys and jerks that want your parking spot. There is a connection!). What I was referring to is that while we may have differences...some may take a donkey to work while others the "A train" and others their Vespa, we have more in common than we think such as saving our parking spots with whatever domestic items we can find. So, next time you're quick to say "Ah,those guys are strange because....." Remember, we probably have more in common than you would expect.

Perspective....

I'm excited to be in Mexico (again) on Día de los Reyes Magos- or as we know it "The Feast of the Ephiphany"- the day the 3 kings paid homage to the infant Jesus. Día de los Reyes is something unique to the Spanish-speaking world. It's the day when children wake to see what presents the Three Kings have left for them. It's a magical time to be in Mexico. It is exciting for me to see and experience different traditions. It is my goal to get to experience many holidays in different countries. I think that you really get insight into the culture to see how holidays are celebrated, what kind of food is eaten, what kind of gifts are given etc. Speaking of experience and perspective....I was thinking today about two quotes from two different leaders regarding U.S. - Mexico relationship General Porfirio Diaz- Poor Mexico, so far from God, so near the United States John F. Kennedy- Geography made us neighbors, tradition has made us friends I think if you were to ask the average U.S. and Mexican citizen, you would probably get similar responses to this. I always try to remember that Mexico is a separate country with its own rich traditions and culture and not an extension of the U.S. I would be willing to bet that my way of interacting with the locals will be a bit different as I keep the perspective of Diaz in the back of my mind this week.

Lisa esta lista!

Lisa esta lista means "Lisa is ready" or many times they'll say "lista Lisa". I just love that little saying. It rolls off the tongue so nicely. And, how could I not be ready? Puerto Vallarta in January! Before anyone gets too envious, I am going to school so it will be a little work. I'm off for another language excursion and it "just happens" to be in sunny Mexico. This trip will be a little different in that I will have my own personal Spanish instructor with me! My Spanish tutor happened to buy a school in P.V. so he will be one of my instructors (and most likely, tour guide) while I'm in Mexico. This is particularly exciting for me as I will have someone who will be able to give me "color commentary" on some of the sites. As always, I'm excited and a bit nervous about the trip. What will I learn? Will I be able to communicate clearly? What if I don't like my host family? It my surprise some people that I still get nervous before a trip considering how many I've been on. I actually look forward to the butterflies in my stomach as it a sensation that I only experience right before a big excursion. I often talk about this "feeling" with my students in my international business classes. I believe that having a little bit of an uneasy feeling before a trip is good. It reminds me that I'm about to experience something new, that I need to keep an open mind AND closed mouth so as to immediately jump into "ethnocentric" mode and start listing all the things that are "weird". My plans for this week are: to focus on the subjunctive (the bane of my existence), participate in some cultural activities such as taking a cooking or dance class, soak up some sun and explore some sites.