We then entered the Confucius Temple area just as people who work there were arriving. It was so quiet and peaceful. The buildings are all very old and are now primarily used for commercial purposes. We walked along streets and alleyways that looked like they came straight out of a movie. As we neared the river that splits the area, we saw a beautiful reflecting pool and a pagoda. We decided to go to the museum attached…the Imperial Examination Cultural Exhibition. From 605 to 1905, China used special examinations given in each province and then in Nanjing to select and evaluate students for special assignments, government positions and for prestige within their own province. Even international students came to participate in the examinations. The goal of the students was to become the "Principal Graduate" or top student each year. This system is said to be the "fifth greatest invention" of China (I'm not sure what the top four are!) and has spread all over the world. We were struck by the vast history of Nanjing, the intense pressure on the students (some were threatened to be disowned by their families if they didn't pass) and the beauty of the place. Here's what it looked like:
We then had a delicious lunch at a little restaurant and the spiciest noodles either of us have ever eaten. We were completely entertaining to the folks working at the restaurant. :)
And tomorrow…we meet Emmy! Our Nanjing guide, Anna, just called and said she'll pick us up tomorrow at 1:20 to go meet our sweet girl. Keep praying, friends, we can feel your prayers.
Love,
Mandy and Steve
Mandy and Steve
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