September 29, 2013

September 29, 2013

Teaching is certainly the most enjoyable and rewarding experience we are having in Nanjing.  Nanjing University is one of the top Universities in China and the students we teach are some of the best in China.  In one of the law classes I taught last we week, we discussed the Bill of Rights and other rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution.  As part of our class discussion, we reviewed a controversial United States Supreme Court case.  I do not let the students know my view of the case.  I simply try to explain the issues and rationale for the case and ask questions that I hope cause deep thinking.  After the class some of the students came to me and expressed concern that the Constitution seemed to be interpreted to allow what they considered to be wrong behavior.  It troubled them that a people with great freedom would use it in that manner.  It is perceptive on their part to understand that with freedom comes a responsibility to be wise in its use.

This last week we sent to a park that had some interesting features as the following pictures demonstrate.

Marilyn and I are standing in front of an active Buddhist temple.

 

A view from the doorway

 

 

A music practice session in the park.

 

 

As you see below, an interesting pastime for many is to bring their caged birds to the park so the birds can get some fresh air and the owners can visit.  I would liken this to the sociality that exists among those in American who take their dog for a walk and enjoy the company of those doing the same thing.

 



This fellow had seven birds that enjoyed some fresh air.  He said he had seven more at home.  It will be their turn next time.


A very interesting feature of the park was a display of polished rocks in their natural shape.  Below are examples of some of the magnificent exhibits.