My Supports

My first and most important daily support system is God. Like Moses of old (Exodus 33:15), I have often times dug my feet in and said to Him, 'I will not move unless I know You are going with me.' Daily He gives me guidance, grounding, wisdom and security from His Word and His Presence. Thankfully, I do not have to imagine His ever not being there. Hebrews 13:5 promises He never leave me or give up on me.Thankfully He is a Person of His Word.

My next support is my friend, colleague and principal. Even though a generation apart, we complement and support each other. She is the one I want to text when I have successfully completed a difficult task, if I made a good grade or if I just heard a funny story. I do not make close friends easily and to have to think of doing this without her is difficult. I would flounder, be disjointed and have difficulty going on at my job and life here. We were separated when she first came to Beijing but still kept in contact by phone, text and email. But to be estranged, I do not want to and do not think I can imagine.

I have a few bi-lingual friends who literally get me through the day. In the complex where I live Lily helps me with Chinese workmen, housing issues and even directions. At school Annie advises me professionally as well as personally. I honestly do not know how I could manage without these two ladies. I have panicked called them from half way across the world and even from the Police Station. I suppose there would be other supports that could take their place, but they know me and I them. There is probably more dependence than I realize.

My assistants not only physically support me in keeping the children safe and happy. They also guide me culturally. They translate, not only language but intentions. They are incredibly patient. I want to be like them when I grow up. I simply could not do my job without them.






Being able to deal in the local currency and use a Bank card is such a convenience. When my wallet has been stolen there were emergency numbers and English speaking people to assist me. Life would be untenable without the ability to operate in this currency.



Taxis, buses and subways make travel here very convenient and inexpensive. I have vowed, I would never drive here but of course I could if need be.It would take quite a bit longer, but I could bicycle or walk to most places that I need to be.

CHALLENGE

The challenge is buying a house. 
Barriers: Language, legal system, knowledge of the housing market, quality control, any kind of better business information, foreign ownership regulations.

Emotionally,I would need the support of a Chinese person who either is a property owner or is familiar with the Chinese housing regulations. This would need to be a person that I trusted and that I knew had my interests at heart.

I would need English legal representation whom I also could trust both who knew the system and was honest. 

I would need financial advice and guidance, also in English.


Frankly, this is an undertaking I have thought about but backed away from because of the enormity of the barriers. I have been thinking about this sort of thing lately. I have the security of my job helping me find lodging and paying for it. I cannot imagine coming here and having to do it on my own. And I have no dependents that I am responsible for.  Thinking of doing that as a foreigner in this country is a formidable task. I sympathize to immigrants everywhere and admire their courage and fortitude.

However, there is the thing of following your dream. Sometimes things have to be difficult before we can enjoy the benefits.