Eric's Beijing Diary

Last night I was climbing up the steps to the old Tang Dynasty temple site. I usually go to the park after the crowds have gone home, so it was pretty peaceful. Suddenly, a group of working ladies came running up to the steps. I think they were probably trying to squeeze in an outing after work, and were not able to get to the park until just before dark.

As they approached the steps, part of the group broke off and started walking up the winding road that runs back and forth along the old stone steps. One of the ladies who had started climbing the steps yelled at them, "Why are you going that way?"

"Because the steps are too steep."

"Nonsense! The old man is climbing them, why can't we?"

Like I said, reminders.