We visited a hutong, an old district like was in the "old China". Met the matriarch of the household. 5 generations have lived there, she now with her two sons, 2 daughters-in-law and one grandchild. But that granddaughter when she marries will live with her husband's family so it will leave the family after 7 generations.
Not wanting to be a cynic, I have to say some things. That hutong was not like what was there in 1978. What I saw was abject poverty and slum. What we saw had been fixed up by the government and was worth many millions of $. They want us to think it wasn't so bad in the old times. I saw the old times. It was awful. Also Jerry said Mao was good for the country, brought it out of poverty. It was his wife and the Gang of Four that were terrible. Well, that is what they are taught now, because they still venerate Mao and can't say he was bad. But he was. Interesting that Jerry would say nothing that would not be "party line" but our guide for the day in Xi'an was more open about her thoughts. It was fascinating to talk with her. She is an only child, only daughter , and when marries will leave living with her parents and grandparents. A big decision for her. Jerry is a second son, from Harbin, way north east ("Ice City") and had to go to Beijing and make his own way. Brother #1 stays to live with parents and looks after them.
I hope I figure out how to attach some photos for you. I hope you will figure what they are.
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