We have been in China for almost a week now, and I can count on one hand the number of Chinese people we have come across who can speak English. Communication has been interesting to say the least. I can also count on one hand the number of other foreigners we have seen in the city we are staying in. It’s safe to say, that this blondie sticks out like a sore thumb when walking the streets. It is a weird feeling to constantly be stared at when walking around to get dinner, or on a trip to the market. To know that you are seen wherever you go.
I wonder if that is how Jesus felt? I’m sure crowds of people stared and watched as he walked the streets, longing for even a glimpse of seeing him or being seen by him. I don’t know exactly how many people Jesus was able to speak to when walking around, but I would imagine that he would do all he could to smile and see as many people around him. So I decided I could do the best that I am able to see the people of China.
They might not understand me, but I can say “Ni hao” (which is hello in Chinese) and smile. To show the sweet people of this city that I see them. Jesus sees them. And just maybe through a simple hello, wave, and smile, they will get a glimpse of how they are seen and how they are loved.
When we walk around the city, whether it’s a stroll through the park, a trip to get ice cream (aka every night), or walking back to the hostel from dinner at our favorite little hole in the wall restaurant, I started saying “ni hao” and smiling at as many people that cross my path as I can. I wish you could see the change in their faces as soon as you look at them and say hello. The JOY that immediately comes. A simple hello changes a blank stare to a face that is seen and filled with joy. They smile with a huge grin and say “ni hao!” back to you. The people of China are so joyful! When you see their joy, you can’t help but catch on and carry it around with you. Who knew all it takes sometimes is a hello.
We all desire to be seen and known on a deep intimate level. But we have to start somewhere. So why can’t we start with hello? We can start by asking ourselves…Who can you see today? The check out person at the grocery store…passing someone in the parking lot…your waitress…a kid walking home from school…a foreigner…really anyone we cross paths with in a day.
I encourage you to look for people who need to be seen. Even if it’s just a hello. You never know the joy that is waiting to be unlocked with just a look and a smile to know that they are seen.
Go in love. Say hello. See the joy.
