Six plus One

Today we got more insight  into the one child rule in China as Lily, our interpreter, has only one son.  There is a phrase in China, "6 plus 1" that is also the title of a popular TV show.  It represents the 6 adults and one child that make up a typical Chinese family:  2 sets of grandparents, two parent  and one child.   Often the grandparents care for the child or take them to school as the parents work.  Violation of the rule is not a crime, but it limits the family from jobs and education opportunities and results in hefty fines; second children cannot receive an ID card which is needed to enroll in school.  The rule is a way of life that is enforced in the cities with more leeway in the countryside.  Additionally, if a husband and wife both come from single child families, they are allowed to have more than one child without penalty.  It is challenging to listen to the unquestioned acceptance of the rule followed by amazing commitment, love and value of all children in every day life.  Our family, especially our children, are all treated like royalty. 

Lily and the group in Temple of Heaven park