From understanding to admiration

During his free time, Bo used to write down his career experiences and anecdotes in a diary, which he emailed to his family and friends once a week. Little by little, after three years, he managed to write more than 800,000 words.

Keeping his diary encouraged him to further explore his knowledge of local customs. Although his mission was limited to the State of Bauchi, he decided to travel around the country in his free time. During the three years, he visited 31 of the 36 states in Nigeria.

In the street, he often saw Nigerian women carrying baskets on their head. Though this practice may seem unusual to some, Bo found wisdom in the custom: their baskets not only sheltered them from the harsh tropical sunlight, but also freed their hands, while walking to their destination.

“This practice has existed for a long time, so it must have its purpose,” said Bo, who always seeks to understand the local way of life by recognizing its merits.

Sometimes, he saw people who are not familiar with each other, exchange greetings for long periods of time. This is in stark contrast with the Chinese, who are rather reserved when meeting unfamiliar people.

This style of greeting seemed to him a little bizarre at first; however he soon became accustomed to it. Now, having returned to China, he has kept this habit and often greets complete strangers in the street. “It’s such a simple gesture, but it’s very human, isn’t it?” he