Racism and xenophobia

Two very ugly words and something you need to learn how to deal with when you do not look like the people who live around you. Today was the second time I had to deal with racism and xenophobia in China. I have, however, learned the magic trick. Smile at them and say hello.

I was in a restaurant minding my own business when three men about my age walked in and sat down across from me. I noticed right away they kept looking at me, pointing, and laughing. I have learned that it's important to not assume they are purposely being mean. On the contrary, they could be talking about something completely unrelated to me. After a few minutes it started to bother me, so I broke out my secret weapon. I waved and said hello. It worked because a few moments later two of the three men were looking down at their ice cream cones with shamed faces. The third was determined to keep them riled up but the other two had lost interest in the foreigner. By not engaging in a staring contest or escalating the situation I showed who the mature person was. Never ever assume the legal system or bystanders will ever side with you when you are in a foreign country.

Unfortunately for foreigners, and China, anti-foreigner sentiment has been rising lately. I hope it doesn't ruin China's image to the world.