Personal Observations
The very first thing that I personally observed in this study tour is the magnanimous hospitality of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, particularly the Divinity School of Chung Chi College. From my arrival at the Stewards High Rock Center, the staff was there to guide me. This was followed by an orientation to the campus, and I was awed by the size and beauty of the campus, especially the libraries.
The second thing I observed is the good accommodation. There are only two of us in an air-conditioned room, with a study table, and a common dining area with all the kitchen and laundry appliances. To me, this is great comfort.
The third thing is the long and distant walks. Going up to the Stewards High Rock was a long walk and so high, true to its name! The unexpected long walks wherever we go were something new to me, but nonetheless, I got used to it as the days passed by, and little did I realize the good of it when my smartwatch congratulated me for walking the minimum 10,000 steps a day!
The fourth thing I observed is that some of the groups we visited had extreme doctrines. Much more is revealed during the Q and A time. Yet, it was clear to me the passion of all these groups and sometimes, they are even more passionate than some Christian groups.
The fifth thing I observed is the sad plight of some migrant workers. It was heartbreaking knowing the sacrifice they faced to come to a foreign land and work as domestic helpers to earn the income to support their family back home, but they are not able to have that income due to problems with employers.
The sixth thing I observed is the inclusivity of the Chung Chi Divinity School and the pluralism in Hong Kong society. This is good in the sense that all feel welcomed and accepted.
Last but not least, I observed that we were allowed to take photos in several restricted areas like in the Sik Sik Yuen. I felt privileged and grateful to Chung Chi for the connection they made in making it possible.
Highlights
As for the highlights, I see the need to be away and contemplate. The Theology building where we are staying has a lot of areas where you are reminded to go away and contemplate, then go back to your work. This was highlighted when we visited the Tao Fong Shan Christian Centre. Life can make us forget why we do what we do, but the need to be away from the noise is a must in this busy and noisy world that we have.
Secondly, meeting new friends from other Asian countries as well as from the United States added color to the study tour.
Third, our hike at Tung Ping Chau was worth it when I saw the sedimentary rocks formed millions of years ago. Those rocks I had only seen in books during my geology class. I climbed up to a challenging rocky area and took a jump shot there, signifying that you can take whatever challenge as long as God is with you.
Cultural Experiences
In my cultural experiences, I see the vast diversity of religion in Hong Kong, which is not so rampant in the city where I lived. Another experience is the taste of food. The noodles look the same, but the taste is different from what I am used to. Related to this is the language used, especially when you order at restaurants. The little Chinese language I know was of no help in ordering the food.
The next thing is the fast pace of people. People in Hong Kong seem used to walking, and they walk fast. Then comes the efficient transport system. You will not easily get lost since there are guides everywhere plus a convenient payment system.
Challenges and How I overcame Them
On the challenges, I found the long steep slopes challenging, but I overcame them by going through them. There are times when you're grasping for breath, but the only way to conquer is to go for it, and then I have that sense of fulfillment once I did it.
Another challenge is the Cantonese language. Having a background in Mandarin and Fookien, I found the sound different, but nonetheless, I will note some of those words and practice speaking them.
Finally, the long trail and high sedimentary rocks of the Ting Ping Chau was a huge challenge, but I deliberately climbed one of the most difficult areas and had a jump shot there, saying to myself, 'I did it!'"