SMALL GESTURES MATTER: Toward a thoughtful Ma Chung

When I was studying in New Zealand in 1992, I had the impression that the New Zealanders youths were boisterous, noisy, and paid little respect for foreigners like me. They seemed to be very ignorant about the presence of foreigners. Somehow I was compelled to change that viewpoint when on one morning I was struggling with the locks of a door that seemed stuck. I was thinking of asking for a help from two young men who showed up down the corridor, but seeing their ignorant demeanor, I decided not to call their attention to give me a hand.

Suddenly one of the two youths swerved round to my direction. “Here, let me help,” he said, reaching the stubborn locks, and yanked them open.

“Oh, thanks,” I said.

“No problem,” he said casually, walking away to continue walking and talking to his friend.

That was very little help, but that mattered much in the way I perceived the whole new culture of New Zealanders. They may be individualistic, they may seem to look through you, and they may maintain this mind-your-own-business-and-help-yourself attitude. But maybe that is not entirely right. Despite their ignorant look, many of them are really aware of what other people are doing, and do not hesitate to offer a helping hand if the others seem to be in trouble.


Here at Ma Chung opportunities like that abound. When you work in one of the rooms in Rektorat building, sometimes you’d see some strangers sitting on the sofa, waiting for their turn to be served upon by the administrative staff. Now picture this: you come early in the morning, and head to your room. In the corner of your eyes, you spot a couple standing near the sofa. You glanced at them and here are some alternatives you may face: (1) trying to feel from their demeanor how they are feeling; (2) offering any help if they turn out to be having a little problem, or (1a) feeling that they somehow are confused about something, (2a) thinking that someone in the front office will eventually come to attend them, and (3a) continuing your steady pace toward your room, or (1c) feeling nothing, and maintaining your walk to your destination.

Which one would you choose?

You decide. Your choice.