March 28

I traveled to Shenzhen for work today. Once I had finished what I needed to do, I wanted to wander without a destination. There were no winding little streets near the office, only tall buildings, so I chose the nearest mall and went to look around.

I cycled there for the exercise and the chance to see the city. Much of the ride looked alike, and I grew bored. I also nearly ran into a car, which gave me a fright. Luckily most of the route was straight, and I arrived safely. It was hot outside, so I went into the mall.

Shenzhen feels new to me, in both its history and its buildings. The shops were not so different from those in Guangzhou, but the whole place looked unusually fresh by comparison. I found some interesting corners, though much of it was familiar.

Just as I was about to leave, I passed a Pop Mart store. It was busy, and the display was creative. LABUBU, whose popularity had spread everywhere last year, was at the center. The crowd seemed at odds with the recent plunge I had seen in Pop Mart’s share price, so I stayed to watch. As I left, I asked a staff member whether it was always this busy. She turned me away rudely and made a cutting remark. I kept my composure, smiled, and thanked her anyway. I had learned something more valuable than an answer.

As the old saying goes: when you find enough joy within, you scarcely notice what others have that you do not…