China—Big City, Big Problems I head south into China. Aſt er many months, I arrive at a place called Kunming. T ree million people live here. It is noisy. It smells of cooking, animals, and bus exhaust. T e air is heavy with pollution. T e people here look at me darkly. It seems


like an unfriendly place. I feel nervous. My phone is stolen. T is city is not for me. I move through this place as quickly as I can. I stock up on fresh supplies then plunge into the Chinese countryside.


Mountain Beauty Everything changes when I reach the Sichuan Mountains. My walk takes me through pine forests, across rivers, and past the camps of fascinating people. T e mountains are home to more than 50 tribes. T ese people live far removed from modern-day cities. Each tribe has its own language and culture.


I am greeted with respect and dignity. I am invited to be a part of daily activities. We gather water, prepare meals, and wash clothes in the river. I feel joyful.


ADVENTURER


15


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