I spent four years in Northeast China getting my bachelor’s degree. It was where I learnt of LifePegs (LP). The first time I joined a LP activity was in June 2009 and at that time, I was close to graduation. It was a pity indeed, I wish I could spend more time with LP during my college days.
My first trip with LP was to travel to Da Qing Gou, a small town in Inner Mongolia which took us 3 hours by bus to arrive from the city centre. Being far away from the hassle and bustle of the city, it was a great place to relax. It was not only about traveling, but a good chance to make friends. The most impressive part was having lectures on life skills on the trip. Strange, you must be thinking, as in China, learning and relaxation don’t seem to go hand-in-hand. Well, that was the biggest difference from a travel agency or an institution. LP trips are about having fun, relaxation and at the same time learning life skills that are beneficial. I could vividly remember the topic of that lecture was about dating. We learnt about what love is and how to show your love. I was impressed with the knowledge that was transmitted to us. You know what? When I was in the college years, I always had romantic feelings which could be dangerous at times. Thankfully I was protected well by my parents and I didn’t do anything wrong which would make me regret my whole life. But I made my parents worry a lot for four years. I am thankful that I finally learnt on that LP trip that love is sacrifice rather than romantic feelings.
One year later, I got a chance to go to Scotland for a year’s further study. I was blessed by the LP lessons, including cross-cultural issues, that I learned which were applicable in real-life situations. I still remember a LP seminar that I joined, the topic was about friendship. What kind of friends do you prefer? Diverse answers were given. “I want to make friends who can help me out when I am in trouble” and “I prefer those who shared the same dreams with me”… well, not bad answers. But I was impressed by the following part. “It is more blessed to give than to receive”. You know what? I realized that we had always focused on what we wanted and what would benefit us but seldom consider others’ needs. I have learned lots of valuable principles about making friends, but “It is more blessed to give than to receive” is a concept that I heard for the first time then! I decided to change from my selfish attitude and apply the principle into my own life, I have since benefited a lot! I am glad that my growth and maturity in life is part of the fun and valuable times spent at LP.
LP is a great blessing to many Chinese college students like me. LP has helped us, the young generation, to see hope and the need to grow. We have been given much guidance through learning lifeskills in activities. Most of us LP members no longer hang out aimlessly on the streets/campuses or immerse ourselves in the internet game bar. Moreover LP is a place full of love and encouragement and positive spirit! Thank you LP for giving me precious experiences that last a long time!
Guest writer Jessica, Volunteer from China