| Another half hour and we reach our destination; a farm in one of the smaller villages, high in the mountains. We're expected, and, as is custom in China, our host has come part of the way to greet us. In ancient times a town would have a gate to greet visitors, sometimes as much as five miles outside of the town proper. When guests were expected from other parts, you would go to the gate to greet them. When they left, you would accompany them on part of their journey, at least to the gate. The message is that "I can't wait to see you," and that, "I can't bear to see you leave." |
