Jasper Huang G10 Stand-up comedy has gained increasing popularity in recent times in China. As a devoted fan of this form of entertainment, I enjoy watching comedians in my leisure time. I often download their videos to have them handy for moments when I want to unwind. For me, watching stand-up comedy provides not only enjoyable entertainment but also serves as a wellspring of inspiration and knowledge, shedding light on novel ideas and overlooked issues in a humorous manner. One of my favorite comedians, Jimmy Yang, has illuminated the different ways through which Western and Asian people express affection and care for others, a topic that has frequently occupied my thoughts. Growing up in a typical East Asian family, my days were filled with rigorous academic studies. Alongside my regular school curriculum, I took numerous tutorial classes covering subjects like mathematics, English, and Chinese, all supported generously by my parents. Although my family has always provided well for me, expressions of love were rarely articulated within the household. I didn’t say “I love you so much, Mommy,” and my parents didn’t tell me “You are the best” when I made academic achievements. The question of how love is communicated and perceived has often crossed my mind. Recently, thanks to insights from Jimmy, I’ve come to realize that food serves as a binding element within our Chinese culture. In Chinese tradition, food occupies a central role, serving as a catalyst for building connections among people. The most common way for us to show respect and affection is through preparing elaborate meals for loved ones. As far as I can remember, my parents always went to great lengths to prepare delicious meals for me. Whenever I returned home, regardless of the hour, a spread of warm dishes awaited me. The comfort of the meal not only warms my stomach but also warms my heart. While our culture may not emphasize verbal expressions of love, it excels in something even more profound. Love is conveyed in a tangible and warm manner. |