"Busy"

I am embarrassed to say it, but the past few days have been rather slow in the office. After the Qingdao Opening Ceremonies on the 9th, there have not been many pressing deadlines or projects for us. That’s not to say that there isn’t anything to do; yes, we still work (don’t get me wrong). However, I have to occupy myself more often than I used to. Usually, I read the news online from sina.com.cn or nytimes.com. I am also finishing up my presentation and essay about my experiences, which I will share at Valparaiso University on September 5.

Despite the light workload, the appearance of idleness is strongly discouraged. Yesterday a notice was circulating about a volunteer who—during working hours—was excessively watching live broadcasts of the Olympics on one of the flat screen monitors scattered all across the center. A dispute broke out with the management staff and his ID was confiscated. He no longer volunteers for the Olympics.

At our office we often take breaks to see some of the fierce swimming or gymnast action. But similarly, our staff is also discouraged from watching the events too much. Today, a sign went up on the TV saying that permitted viewing hours are from 11:30am to 1:30pm, our daily lunch break hour. I guess we’ll be seeing a little bit less of the Games.

It is a great lesson on Chinese culture, where “saving face” is highly important. Appearances are everything. I now spend my days in front of an LCD screen “looking busy.” (Shhhh, I’m translating.)