Introduction In recent years, the doctor-patient relationship in China's Grade-A tertiary hospitals has become tense, with over 70% of hospitals experiencing violent conflicts. Research indicates that reducing the information gap in patients' understanding of diagnoses and treatments, as well as enhancing trust, can alleviate this situation. This study involved more than 30 field interviews across four tertiary hospitals in Beijing to identify two specific information gaps that need to be addressed. We conducted outreach using brochures, posters, custom tissues, presentations, and videos, distributing over 700 brochures and achieving more than 4,000 video views. Additionally, a comparison of 300 questionnaires confirmed that we effectively bridged the two identified information gaps, contributing to the improvement of the doctor-patient relationship in Beijing. Research Methodology Our study involved conducting over 30 field interviews with patients, their families, and doctors across four prominent tertiary hospitals in Beijing: Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Japan-China Friendship Hospital, and Capital Medical University Affiliated Beijing Children's Hospital. These interviews allowed us to gather diverse perspectives on the specific information gaps that contribute to the strained doctor-patient relationship. Findings Through qualitative analysis of the interviews, we identified several key factors contributing to the tension: Mistrust and Communication Gaps A prevalent theme was the lack of clear communication from doctors regarding hospital rules and processes. For example, patients often do not understand the need to transfer between departments for treatment or why they cannot enter the resuscitation room. Many patients are also unclear about the correct process for receiving treatment in complex hospital settings. Patient Expectations vs. Reality Patients frequently have unrealistic expectations regarding medical outcomes and experiences. The complexity of medical information, combined with sensational media portrayals, leads to heightened anxieties and misconceptions about treatment processes. Additionally, many patients struggle to choose the appropriate hospital, resulting in wasted time at large hospitals for minor health issues. Systemic Issues : Our research also highlighted systemic problems, such as uneven distribution of healthcare resources and the pressures of a tiered medical system. To tackle these challenges, we created a comprehensive outreach program to enhance communication and understanding between doctors and patients. Although we cannot solve deeper systemic issues, our efforts concentrate on bridging the information gap by clearly explaining hospital rules and processes and informing patients about the benefits of using secondary hospitals for minor ailments. Outreach Initiatives Educational Materials : We created brochures and visual aids summarizing common patient concerns and providing clear answers. These materials addressed nine frequently misunderstood topics, such as the reasons for long wait times, the necessity of certain medical tests, and guidelines for following medical prescriptions. Over 700 copies of these brochures were distributed, with approximately 70% taken by patients and their families. Multimedia Content : An animated video titled "Navigating Your Visit to Chaoyang Hospital" was produced to visually illustrate the patient journey, including registration, consultation, and treatment processes. The video has garnered over 4,000 views online, with more than 100+ sharing, significantly enhancing patient awareness. Video on the Hospital Visit Process and How to Choose the Appropriate Level of Hospital Interactive Engagement : We established a "Free Tissue Station" in the emergency department of Chaoyang Hospital, where custom tissues printed with healthcare tips (such as how to choose proper hospitals based on your diseases) and contact information for further inquiries were distributed. This initiative resulted in the distribution of over 800 tissue packets within a day, effectively drawing attention to our outreach efforts. Public Presentations : We held four in-person outreach sessions at local schools, targeting around 140 students. These presentations emphasized the benefits of the tiered healthcare system and encouraged students to consider secondary hospitals for non-critical health issues. Feedback collected through 93 post-event surveys indicated that students' willingness to consider secondary hospitals increased from 11.8% to 84.9%. Impact and Results We gathered over 300 questionnaires from participants surrounding two innovative actions. After excluding responses from those who did not match or had not viewed the posters, the valid response rate for the poster questionnaire reached 51.9%, yielding 113 usable entries. We focused on two key analyses: the awareness level of the tiered healthcare system and the willingness to seek treatment at non-tertiary hospitals. Increased Awareness : Improved Decision-Making : Statistical Significance : Chi-square statistical analysis confirmed a significant association between our outreach materials and students' healthcare choices (p=0.0559), validating the effectiveness of our innovative actions. Limitations: However, we identified some limitations in the poster campaign: the proportion of individuals who had heard of but did not understand the tiered healthcare system increased. This indicates that the posters lacked interactive elements that could facilitate a deeper understanding of the system. These insights will guide us in enhancing the effectiveness of our future poster campaigns. Conclusion Our research underscores the crucial role of communication and education in improving the doctor-patient relationship within Beijing's tertiary hospitals. By addressing the information gaps and fostering mutual understanding, we aim to alleviate tensions in healthcare settings. Moving forward, we plan to establish a nonprofit foundation to sustain these outreach initiatives and expand our collaboration with educational institutions. Our ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare communication will continue to promote a more collaborative and trustful doctor-patient dynamic, ultimately contributing to a healthier society. By documenting and sharing our findings, we hope to inspire further action and dialogue around improving the doctor-patient relationship not only in Beijing but across China. Together, we can work towards a more informed and supportive healthcare environment. Research and Action Report： https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AQ8HMF-NDv8blEqJRpQmrfyjuxUnwXBZ/view?usp=sharing

WeRead WeRead Jr April 5, 2024, 17:25 Beijing Activity Progress Report Since establishing contact with teachers and school officials in Yun County during last summer, the WeRead team has partnered with Yun County Ethnic High School to jointly carry out reading activities. In late September of last year, we officially launched the fourth phase of the WEwithU reading program. Our goal is to use this simple activity to deepen the connection between volunteers and students, fostering a greater understanding of each other and the world through literature. 01 Preparation for the Fourth Phase of Reading Activities 📍 Volunteer Recruitment and Interviews (October 4-11) In early October, the WeRead team shared recruitment information and conducted interviews for volunteers. We welcomed 15 passionate individuals eager to engage in reading and community service. 📍 Volunteer Training Session (October 15) To help volunteers better understand the program's content and execution, WeRead held a video conference training session. Team members introduced various stages of the activity and shared past experiences, followed by a Q&A segment addressing volunteers' questions. 📍 Student Presentation Meeting (October 16) To ensure students understood the reading program and to encourage parental support, WeRead recorded a video introduction. With the help of school officials, students participated in a screening of this video. 📍 Matching Results (October 17) The team matched volunteers with students based on their reading interests. This phase employs a 1-to-2 and 1-to-3 format, pairing one volunteer with two to three students. We believe this approach enhances the reading experience, allowing for individual attention while fostering group encouragement. 02 Current Progress of the Fourth Phase of Reading Activities Since late October, the small groups have been completing the preparatory stages (matching, coordinating, and selecting books). Each reading group typically meets weekly or biweekly. As this phase approaches its conclusion, the WeRead team is planning the closing ceremony. The children will soon share their experiences of reading alongside volunteers over the past few months, expressing their growth not only from the books but also from a deeper understanding of themselves. Many have formed strong friendships with their volunteers. WeRead is planning to distribute certificates and mementos for the volunteers and students involved. WeRead also plans to initiate a new round of book donations. We aim to raise funds to provide more books to students, igniting their passion for reading. In WEwithU, we encounter the pure curiosity of those eager to explore the world. Through books, we spark small dreams and warm each other's hearts through companionship. -END- Photos & Text | WEwithU Fourth Phase VolunteersInformation Collection & Text Integration

iNeon Social Responsibility Organization  is a social action alliance formed by high school students from Renmin University Affiliated High School. Currently consisting of 15 dedicated members, our team is driven by a mission to explore the future and fulfill our social responsibilities. Our goal is to ignite our peers' passion for social issues through personal stories, fostering a sense of engagement and building a more inclusive and responsible society. We aim to cultivate young people's sense of responsibility towards society, thereby promoting positive social development. Over the past four months, we have visited 12 schools, sharing unique insights on social issues with more than 3,000 participating students. Our activities have spanned across Beijing, Zhangye in Gansu, and Lijiang and Yunxian in Yunnan, allowing our team members to exchange ideas with students from various regions and bridge distances. Origin The origin of the iNeon Teens Social Responsibility Organization was quite serendipitous. It all began when Sun Ruihan (Andrew) wanted to visit a classmate in Yunnan with whom he had been co-reading in the WeRead program for a semester. He casually gathered a few other students from different grades and classes to embark on this journey. After their first trip, they were deeply moved by the experience and recognized its significance and impact, leading them to establish the iNeon Social Responsibility Organization. Initially, the five naive young students simply aimed to share their growth stories with this new group of friends. As they traveled from Beijing to Yunnan, and then to Gansu, more participants joined, enriching their experiences. By immersing themselves in local life, they gained a deeper understanding of the world around them. Mutual Conversation through Speeches and Workshops During our activities, the iNeon Social Responsibility Organization engaged in extensive dialogues with students from different schools through a series of in-depth speeches and workshops, discussing multiple important social topics. Our speeches covered themes such as responsibility during the pandemic, mental health, gender and body awareness, the meaning of life, the value of sports, and the interplay between academics and talent. The topics we're exploring are diverse, yet they all focus on the important connection between individuals and society. Through these engaging presentations, we hope to spark a sense of responsibility in local students, encouraging them to step up, embrace leadership, and become better, happier individuals. Each speaker shares their unique journey, demonstrating how personal growth and social engagement can create meaningful change. Let’s inspire each other to tap into our potential and make a positive impact in our communities! Social Responsibility and Community Engagement Sun Ruihan （Andrew)’s initiatives during the pandemic, including fundraising for medical staff and promoting public awareness of healthcare rules. Youth Mental Health Dong Tiande’s analysis of youth depression and anxiety, exploring emotional communication through innovative products like emotion-interactive dice. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Personal Growth Yang Lanxin’s emphasis on the importance of finding genuine interests and the interplay between science and the humanities. Gender Equality and Health Awareness Yu Ruomei’s project addressing menstrual stigma and promoting female health through innovative product design. Artificial Intelligence and Technology Education Yao Qingyuan’s introduction to AI concepts, hands-on experiences with ChatGPT, and his research on AI in gaming. Accessibility and Inclusion Tian Runchang’s insights on the importance of barrier-free environments based on personal experiences with accessibility issues. Identity Awareness Wang Siqi’s exploration of identity recognition, addressing societal expectations and personal complexities. Physical Fitness and Mental Well-being Tian Zhe’s discussion on the benefits of physical exercise for both body and mind, including common misconceptions about fitness. Storytelling in Film and Personal Narratives Tang Shi’s insights on storytelling elements and encouraging others to share their personal stories. Value of Domestic Labor Jiang Leyi’s examination of domestic work, its societal implications, and advocating for the recognition of women in this field. Growth Mindset in Learning Jiang Zihan’s exploration of growth mindset principles and how they can foster resilience and personal development in everyday life. Following each speech, we organized various workshops , including debates, to encourage active participation and sharing of personal views and experiences. These workshops provided a safe space for students to express their thoughts freely. During a profound discussion about life and death, one student shared her experience of parting with her grandfather, fostering deep reflections on cherishing loved ones. In another session, many students pondered the meaning of life and death, acknowledging what truly deserves appreciation in their lives. Through these exchanges, we not only disseminated knowledge but also encouraged students to think critically about social issues, enhance self-awareness, and commit to social responsibility, contributing to a better future. This two-way, equal exchange enriched our understanding, facilitating individual growth and societal connections. Our team has been inspired by the enthusiasm and dedication of young students, whose passion for life has profoundly impacted us. In one event, during a mental health-themed speech in front of 400 students, when I asked, "Can I get close to you?" every child responded in unison, "Yes!!!" That moment overwhelmed the venue with their voices, leaving a deep impression on everyone present. The resilience and courage demonstrated by students from Yunnan have deeply moved us. They understand the challenges ahead but never give up, embodying an attitude towards life that has brought us to the brink of tears. We hope more people from large cities can feel the immeasurable spirit of these children. In one workshop, a student shared, "Sister, no one has ever asked me who I want to become before you came." This statement made us reflect; these children crave attention and understanding, and their stories deserve to be heard. We also witnessed their dreams. In a conversation with a young girl, she proactively expressed her passion and bravely asked questions about majoring in English. Although my knowledge was limited, merely passing on some secondary information, her yearning for the future touched me. I realized everyone has the right to choose what they love, and learning to plan one's life after clarifying dreams is a crucial step for her future. Through our interactions with these students, our team has experienced unparalleled growth and inspiration. Their innocence, dedication to ideals, and life’s challenges have helped us see another version of ourselves. This empathetic process has empowered us and driven us forward together. We reject conventional norms, firmly believing that the world can change, and we look forward to exploring more possibilities alongside these children in the future. Postcards and Ongoing Connections In our activities, the "Postcard" initiative has become a significant aspect aimed at deepening our connection with students, allowing them to express their feelings and thoughts following discussions. Each participant received a postcard to write their voices or questions, along with a school-customized postcard. These postcards not only serve as a bridge for communication but also ensure their voices are recorded and valued. From the over 3,000 postcards collected, many students expressed genuine feelings about our speeches and activities, which provided us with profound insights. One student wrote, "I want to go out and see the big cities, to communicate and collaborate with more outstanding people!" This reflects their desire for the future and pursuit of knowledge. Another student noted, "I only realized the misunderstandings I had with my grandfather after his passing. I believe he would want me to be an excellent person who contributes to society, so I work hard every day to not disappoint him." In discussions about life and death, one student shared, "I feel like death seems distant but is actually very close; it relates to how we face our current lives, matters, and people around us." This deep reflection on life led them to see various perspectives and sparked new thoughts and hopes. Another student confessed, "For the first time, I feel understood. I previously contemplated suicide, but seeing what you all do makes me want to be like you, to live bravely." This shows their courage to express themselves and take on social responsibility. Facing the pressures of the college entrance examination, one student reflected, "The pressure is immense, but after listening, I realize the process is more important than the result. I can be a happy ordinary person, even if I don't get into my desired school." This perspective emphasizes the redefinition of self-worth and a more open attitude towards the future, highlighting that life is not defined by a single outcome. "I was thinking about forming a practice group to do something meaningful during our break, to learn from you all. Although we may not do it as well as you, we can still engage in activities that help others while also enhancing our own skills." "I feel inspired by you! Our society truly needs more caring individuals like you. Your charisma has captivated me. After listening to your speech, I had only one thought: I want to explore the world! You seem so gentle and patient. When we asked for your autograph, you graciously signed for us, even kneeling down to do so!" "Listening to your words really excited me for the whole night and truly motivated me. After hearing you, my desire to attend university has reached new heights! I want to be someone who makes a difference in society and helps others. I don’t know if we’ll meet again, but as a junior, I wish you not just success but also good health and happiness!" To inspire more people, we displayed these postcards (anonymized) at school, attracting widespread attention. From students to principals, everyone drew strength and inspiration from these genuine voices, prompting deep reflections on social responsibility. We have maintained ongoing connections with students; every weekend, when they have access to their phones (which are usually restricted), they actively share their lives and thoughts with us. Additionally, we created a group chat to facilitate communication. In this space, students can freely discuss issues, share experiences, and support each other, fostering a warm community atmosphere. Through these interactions, we not only spread knowledge but also encouraged students to reflect on social issues, enhance self-awareness, and embrace their social responsibilities as teenagers. Each postcard and message serves as a reminder that this two-way communication allows us to learn from each other, grow together, and move towards a better future. Future Outlook After this enriching and meaningful journey, the iNeon Social Responsibility Organization is filled with hope and anticipation for the future. We will continue to promote communication and interaction with students, deepen discussions on social issues, and further enhance the sense of social responsibility and engagement among youth. To this end, we have reached out to relevant foundations and are actively negotiating collaborations. They have expressed strong support for our project and are willing to provide resources and assistance to achieve a broader social impact. This collaboration will enable us to conduct more activities, reach more schools and students, and engage more young people in public welfare. Moreover, we plan to expand the "Postcard" initiative to showcase more authentic feelings and reflections from students. By bringing these voices to larger platforms, we hope to generate broader attention and discussion, helping young people better understand themselves and others. We firmly believe that through continuous effort and exploration, the future of the iNeon Social Responsibility Organization will become a proactive force for social progress. We look forward to working alongside more like-minded partners, contributing to the construction of a better society together.

This was my interview during my middle school graduation. As our three years at Peking University Affiliated High School come to an end, we prepare to say goodbye to this beautiful campus. At this moment of graduation, let’s take a look at what PKUHS means to our classmates. Through this video, we hope to capture the countless memories we’ve made over the past three years! A heartfelt thank you to all the teachers and classmates we've met during this journey. As we all continue on our own paths, I hope we don’t forget to stay connected and meet up from time to time!

Traveling always brings encounters with different people. In this Sri Lankan taxi driver working in Abu Dhabi, we see a passion for work, a pursuit of enjoying life, and a remarkable ability to constantly adapt to new environments. His journey reflects resilience, an openness to change, and the courage to restart his life in different countries. Whether it's behind the wheel or navigating the challenges of various cultures, his story is a testament to perseverance and the drive to make the most out of every opportunity.

This is the story of a ride-hailing driver who, amidst economic shifts and the pandemic’s impact, finds himself working over ten hours a day with an uncertain income. Once a passenger himself, he now faces intense competition, as many former riders have also become drivers. Despite the pressures of supporting his family and the added responsibilities of caring for elderly parents and young children, he remains hopeful and committed. His story reflects how COVID-19 and economic change have reshaped livelihoods, highlighting resilience and the drive to persevere through challenging times.

In this campus interview, we explore how teachers and students at Peking University perceive the concept of "enlightenment." Through their perspectives, we gain insights into how education fosters critical thinking, personal growth, and intellectual exploration. This reflection on enlightenment showcases the university's emphasis on nurturing not just academic knowledge, but also a deeper understanding of the world and oneself.

In the bustling streets of Beijing, ride-hailing driver Master Sun is writing his life story through hard work and resilience. Unlike many drivers who harbor grievances against the platform, Master Sun expresses deep gratitude for Didi. He says, “During the three years of the pandemic, it was Didi that helped me through the toughest times; it saved my life and provided me with food.” Transition from Taxi Driver to Ride-Hailing Driver At 55 years old, Master Sun has been working in the ride-hailing industry for five years. He starts accepting orders promptly at 7 AM from his home in Tongzhou, Beijing. Choosing to become a ride-hailing driver was not his first option; due to his age and limited education, he felt he had no other choice. “At my age, without much education, this is the only industry I can choose. No one else would hire me,” he explained. Before becoming a ride-hailing driver, Master Sun worked as a taxi driver. However, due to health issues, he had to stop driving for a few years. After recovering through rest and exercise, he returned to driving. He reflected on his time as a taxi driver, sharing, “Taxi companies can be frustrating with their tricks and oppressive practices. For instance, if you run a red light, the traffic authority issues a fine, and the company imposes an additional penalty, even publicly shaming you at meetings.” In contrast, while Didi has its issues, Master Sun feels it provided him a lifeline during difficult times. The Hardships of Life and a Grateful Heart During the pandemic, Master Sun's income plummeted as passengers became hesitant to spend money. He noticed many people opting for cheaper transportation methods. “People are reluctant to spend money, so many who would have taken a ride are now using the subway or cheaper options,” he noted. His earnings now amount to only half of what they were before, and with an increasing number of drivers, competition has intensified. Despite these challenges, Master Sun maintains a heart full of gratitude. “I never complain about Didi because it helped me survive the toughest three years during the pandemic,” he admitted, expressing that his gratitude for Didi even surpassed his reliance on family. “No one in my family could help me; it was Didi that supported me during the hardest times.” Acceptance of Reality and Future Aspirations When discussing the future, Master Sun has limited plans. “I’m in my fifties, and I’ll probably work until I’m 60, which is when I can retire. It’s just how it is,” he accepts, feeling content with his current state of life. “People in Beijing tend to be easily satisfied. I work hard; many of my peers are enjoying life, while I’m still grinding.” He works 14 to 15 hours a day, often feeling tired but chooses to bring meals from home to save time and money. “I bring my lunch in a small thermos; eating out is expensive, and parking is a hassle,” he said. He is mindful of his health, managing his diet to ensure he can continue to work efficiently. “For dinner, I control my blood sugar by skipping carbs, eating just an apple or some nuts, maybe an egg,” he explained. Even with the tough conditions, Master Sun remains optimistic. “Ordinary people live by their mindset; you can be downcast or cheerful, but either way, it’s still one day,” he remarked. He hopes to improve his life through hard work and wants to share his experiences to inspire others. Challenges of Serving Daxing Airport One unique challenge Master Sun faces is accepting rides to Daxing Airport. “Picking up passengers from Daxing Airport is high-tech; after five years, I still haven’t had the courage to go there,” he explained. While the fare to the airport is lucrative, the return trip is often empty, meaning many drivers are reluctant to take those orders. In the past, he could wait for a long time at the airport for a ride, but now he prefers to return to the city immediately after dropping off passengers. “There’s an option in Didi to avoid accepting orders from the airport, but many drivers hesitate to disable that option,” he noted, acknowledging that not accepting airport orders could impact their business. Despite this, he has chosen to take a balanced approach and avoid airport orders as much as possible. Honoring the Everyday Warriors Master Sun’s story is a reflection of the lives of countless ride-hailing drivers. They work quietly in various corners of the city, contributing their labor for their families and society. In this rapidly evolving era, it is these ordinary yet steadfast individuals who form the backbone of society. Master Sun stated, “I start accepting orders at 7 AM and usually work until evening. It’s tough, but at least I know I belong to the lowest tier of society, just relying on hard work. I feel like a modern-day ‘Camel Xiangzi’ from the old society, but I’ve come to accept this job.” He remains loyal to Didi, unlike many drivers who run multiple platforms. “I only drive for Didi; if they don’t give me orders, I’ll just wait it out. I won’t download other platforms.” Let us pay tribute to Master Sun and all the ordinary people striving for a better life. Through these interviews, I hope to shed light on the lives of ride-hailing drivers, revealing the opportunities and challenges they face amid societal changes. In the next issue, we will continue to explore more stories from ride-hailing drivers, gaining insights into their happiness and sense of fulfillment. Stay tuned for our upcoming interviews, and let’s walk closer to these extraordinary yet ordinary individuals.

In this video, Mr. Chen shares his journey of adapting to a new life after his business venture failed. Once a co-owner of a mining business with friends, he led a fulfilling life but ultimately had to give up this career due to financial difficulties. Now, he drives a rideshare vehicle alone in Beijing, working 15-hour days to support his family and shoulder his responsibilities. The video highlights Mr. Chen’s genuine attitude towards life, showcasing his shift from the peak of enjoying life’s luxuries to coping with challenges. He speaks candidly about family, responsibility, and the changes he has faced, yet he remains optimistic, continuing to work hard for his family and his dreams. Liu, a ride-hailing driver from Shandong, rents a car for 3,800 yuan a month from a friend. He works long hours—15 hours daily, from 6 AM to 10 PM—continuing this routine for a month and a half. Each day, he completes about 35 orders, earning 820 yuan, plus an additional 180 yuan in bonuses. After deducting commissions and rent, he nets around 10,000 yuan monthly. Liu currently lives alone in a small flat in Daxing Langfang, paying a rent of 1,200 yuan. On the bustling streets of Beijing, Liu navigates his car amidst the city's rhythm. Although this lifestyle is tough, he perseveres. His journey as a driver began not in Beijing but during his time from 2010 to 2015, when he and friends operated a mine together. Despite low mineral prices and disappointing returns, he cherishes the entrepreneurial spirit of those years, saying, “That time was the most enjoyable. I lost a lot of money, but it was my own business, and I loved it.” However, as losses mounted, he had to close the venture in 2014 and returned home to work for a local company. The salary there was insufficient to support his family, which included elderly relatives and children. Faced with mounting pressure, Liu decided to resign and move to Beijing alone, beginning his new career as a ride-hailing driver. The shift from being a business owner to working for someone else was a significant drop for Liu. Once living comfortably, he now found himself in a precarious situation. After six months of feeling down, he realized that life couldn't remain in a rut. “How can I stay down forever? I just had to start working,” Liu said. He humorously quoted Yue Yunpeng, saying, “I have no choice,” and added that if he had other options, he wouldn’t need to drive for a living. During his month and a half in Beijing, Liu has explored the city extensively. Although he had worked in Beijing over 20 years ago, he never had the chance to appreciate it fully. Now, as a ride-hailing driver, he has rediscovered the city, gaining a new perspective and appreciation for its charm. Despite the challenges of life, Liu's story reflects the reality for many middle-aged Chinese individuals. Many have once run their businesses but had to abandon them for various reasons and seek new means of livelihood. Liu's resilience showcases his ability to adapt to change and his deep understanding of life, coupled with a positive attitude. Each day in Beijing, he writes a new chapter in his life story, embracing the opportunities that come his way.

On the bustling streets of Beijing, an elderly woman makes her living selling secondhand books, standing in stark contrast to the modern high-rises of Sanlitun behind her. As factories shut down and libraries close, the once-stable jobs that defined her past have faded away. Selling books on the street, she clings to each one as a reminder of her former life and struggles to make ends meet. Amid the city’s rapid development, have some been quietly left behind? With industrial shifts and urban renewal, many former workers are forced into makeshift jobs on the streets, revealing a structural challenge that extends beyond individual hardship. While the rise of towering buildings and rapid economic growth captivate us, how do we care for those pushed to society’s margins? This question demands our collective attention. I don't know how she lives now, but I remember her parting words to me: “Stay away from spicy food; it’ll keep your skin clear.” How Did She End Up Selling Books? The elderly woman used to work as a librarian at the Textile Ministry Library until it closed in 1993 during a nationwide wave of layoffs. As a result of this upheaval, she lost her job, and the library, unable to pay her wages, compensated her by giving her the very books from the library’s collection. She had held onto these books for years, but now, facing hardship, she felt compelled to sell them to make ends meet. The 1993 layoff wave marked a significant shift in China, where many state-owned enterprises underwent restructuring. Employees were laid off, losing their "iron rice bowls." The elderly woman was one of those who found herself out of work during this tumultuous time. The Struggles of Daily Life Every day, she earned around 50 yuan, while her husband received a pension of just over 3,000 yuan—a meager amount for survival in a bustling city like Beijing. To save money, she would forage for discarded vegetable leaves at a nearby morning market, soaking them in salt water for disinfection. Alongside half a carrot, this was the extent of their daily meals. Concerned for my family’s well-being, she asked if my mother had paid into social security, urging me to ensure that we do. She lamented that her generation missed out on these essential benefits, leaving them without medical insurance. Sadly, she herself suffered from high blood pressure, while her husband had diabetes, necessitating regular medication. To avoid the exorbitant fees at Chaoyang Hospital, they typically went for check-ups at their local community clinic after visiting a larger hospital for tests. She recounted how major hospitals often admit patients for minor ailments, but they simply couldn’t afford the cost of hospitalization. Respect for Knowledge Despite the difficulties of selling books on the street, she remained committed to her craft, opting to sell individual books rather than wholesale to a book distributor. She recounted that a distributor had once offered to buy her entire collection, intending to resell it at higher prices in the Panjiayuan Market. However, she declined, unwilling to see the books sold for profit or mishandled by others. Instead, she wanted to ensure these books reached those who truly needed them. To her, selling each book was not just a transaction; it was a chance to pass on knowledge and preserve culture. Even with thin margins, she insisted that these books find their way into deserving hands. As we chatted, a potential buyer approached. “You should buy two books for a photo; this really is hard-earned money!” she urged. “This ‘Shuo Wen Jie Zi’ is 150 yuan, and it’s the only one available—no duplicates, they’re all rare editions. And these books by Lu Xun can sell for over 200 yuan in museums.” The books, remnants of a bygone era from the Textile Ministry Library, were treasures from 80 years ago. After the library closed, she had to find a way to make a living, selling her collection to cover basic necessities like flour and rice. When she noticed someone using their nails to flip through a book, she quickly intervened, concerned about damaging the pages. Reflection This encounter with the elderly bookseller not only enriched my Valentine’s Day experience but also deepened my appreciation for the struggles and resilience inherent in her daily life. She embodies the pure and unpretentious lifestyle of Beijing's grassroots laborers. In this fast-paced metropolis, everyone has a story, and each story, whether joyful or sorrowful, deserves to be heard and reflected upon. Through this blog, I hope to share her narrative with a broader audience, reminding us not to overlook those who strive quietly in life, embodying resilience and hope.

Yesterday, as I was taking a ride-hailing service home, the driver asked if we all finished classes at this time, noticing a lot of passengers heading to similar destinations. I wasn’t sure, but I decided to take off my headphones and chat with him. During our conversation, I learned that he is a post-90s entrepreneur from Fengtai, Beijing. Previously, he owned a restaurant in Fengtai, serving home-style breakfast dishes and other local favorites. However, after the tragic fire at Changfeng Hospital, the Beijing authorities tightened safety regulations for restaurants. They mandated that eateries using natural gas switch to electric stoves. Unfortunately, his restaurant relied on natural gas and would require significant investment to upgrade to electric cooking, which posed a substantial cost barrier. Moreover, after the lifting of pandemic restrictions, he found that his takeaway orders had dwindled, contrary to my initial intuition that business would bounce back. Coupled with high rent, he decided to close the restaurant and transition into the ride-hailing industry. Reflecting on our chat, I had two strong impressions: Despite the setbacks in his entrepreneurial journey, he retained a distinctive entrepreneurial spirit. This was evident in his high-quality service and articulate communication. I had assumed the pandemic dealt a severe blow to the restaurant industry, but for this young entrepreneur, the reduction in takeaway orders post-restrictions had a more significant impact. Individual destinies can be influenced by numerous factors in the current era, some apparent and others subtle. While a thorough safety inspection is warranted following the Changfeng Hospital fire, it’s equally important to consider how to reasonably and effectively address the safety issues facing vulnerable businesses. The driver spoke with a remarkable acceptance of life’s challenges; he didn't utter a single complaint. Instead, he engaged me in an honest conversation, showcasing his clear logic and resilience. I truly admire his spirit of pursuing a second entrepreneurial venture and am touched by his positive attitude towards life!

After school, as I was leaving the campus, I spotted an uncle distributing flyers at the school gate. With a friendly demeanor, he introduced himself as an English teacher at a well-known training institute, promising free classes if I scanned his code. Intrigued, I decided to engage him in conversation. To test his English skills, I asked him to introduce himself in English. To my delight, he spoke fluently and seamlessly transitioned into a full conversation. It was refreshing to communicate with someone so passionate about the language. I scanned his WeChat code and verified his affiliation with the reputable training institution, which made me curious about his story. The uncle shared that he was born in a rural area of Northeast China. Growing up, he was inspired by television dramas that depicted translators as cool and influential figures. This aspiration motivated him to self-study English and eventually enroll in college. Although he didn't fulfill his dream of becoming a translator, he carved out a successful career as a bilingual tour guide for 15 years, leading foreign tourists through the vibrant streets of Wangfujing. Along the way, he developed keen insights into the personalities of his visitors, noting that those from California tended to be particularly chatty and warm. However, the pandemic brought unforeseen challenges. With the drastic decline in foreign tourists, his business suffered significantly. In response to this crisis, he found a position at the training institute, which was transitioning from traditional education to a more experiential education and travel program. Distributing flyers outside the school was part of his new role; he mentioned he was there that day to share course information with parents attending a meeting. My conversation with him was unlike any I had ever experienced. We communicated mostly in English, and I sensed a palpable excitement on his part to converse in the language. His words were imbued with sincerity and reflected not only an honesty towards me but also a deep acceptance of his life experiences over the past three decades. Rather than focusing on the economic hardships caused by the pandemic, he expressed a sense of fulfillment with his current situation. He viewed individual development as intricately linked to broader societal circumstances—his passion for English translation became a profession due to the economic reforms in China, while the pandemic forced him to adapt by joining the training institute and taking on the role of distributing flyers. This encounter with the uncle was enlightening; it revealed how the pandemic has affected not only the tourism industry but also the education sector. He understood these challenges but maintained an optimistic outlook, embracing change with grace. I couldn’t help but wonder if he truly felt the profound impacts of the pandemic on his life or if he simply chose to focus on the positives, perhaps to avoid the pain of discussing such difficult realities. His ability to find joy in his work and communicate his journey was inspiring, leaving me with a sense of hope and a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.