Friendly Governmental Suggestion

             This traditional Beijing home consists of small buildings which open out to a courtyard. The same family has stayed in this complex for a few generations; however, the government “suggests” they allow tourists to view it.  I believe that under the new dispensation, they receive payment.  One of the men was cordial, but several members of the family seemed unhappy to have us gawking at their home.  Having experienced annual parsonage inspections, I understood.  This would be far worse.

           In a discussion with another professor, I referred to China’s new system as Capitalism, and I was corrected.  We call it “revised Socialism,” my colleague said with a grin.