Over the years, I have written and ranted about how much I hate the way Western media portrays China and how much this is affecting how their readers view the Chinese population.
Of course, it’s driven by fear and misunderstanding [not to mention hypocrisy, given everyone demands cheaper products and higher share returns] but that still doesn’t excuse the shit they keep heaping on this magnificent country.
Yes, madness and pain exists and yes – like every other country on the planet – there are some terrible, terrible people who live here … but that doesn’t mean every person, company or product in China is created with the sole intention of disrespecting or destroying other people’s lives or livlihood.
Anyway, the reason I say this is because Leon – of Method Planning infamy – recently sent me this sign from a construction site:
I’m not sure if any of you can read mandarin so let me translate for you.
Please be aware of safety. If you’re in an accident, somebody else will sleep with your wife, beat up your kid and spend your pension.
Now I know that can sound like massive fear-mongering – and to a degree it is – but everyone here who has seen it has found it amusing … not because of it’s ‘honesty’, but because of the cheeky way they’re getting people to appreciate the importance of safety.
And before anyone say’s they shouldn’t need a sign to tell workers to look after themselves … I would like to point out that most construction sites in the Western World have signage reminding people to be conscious of safety standards.
Anyway, the reason I post this is because, in some small way, this sign sticks two fingers up the prejudice of Western media.
While they keep printing articles that try and brainwash Western culture into thinking this country doesn’t care about standards or people or emotion, this kind-of-says otherwise.
China has many issues, but fundamentally it’s an amazing place filled with amazing people so rather than base your opinions on the mad ramblings of the Daily Mail – who have probably never even been here – come and visit for yourself because as Northern said, if you want to understand culture, you have to play in the jungle not in the zoo.
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Last thing, I know today will be an especially tough day for Dave – not to mention Andy – so I hope it goes OK. Or as OK as it can be. Thinking of you both … and not in a bad way for once.