Here's what I wrote:
What Makes China, China
As an aspiring photographer living and teaching in Dalian, I enjoy taking shots of things that really make China, China. Not just the tourist attractions and scenery, but also the people and events which define the country.
On April 4th, Qingming Festival took place. It is held annually to welcome the coming spring and to commemorate family and relatives who have passed away. Traditionally, families will burn auspicious ‘fake’ money to see that their deceased ancestors will remain comfortable in the afterlife.
That night, I ventured out to photograph people in the midst of their honoring. I wanted to capture the dignified process of money burning naturally. I sought neither to interfere nor disturb, therefore I respectfully kept my distance, blending into the shadows while shooting. I saw the devotedness on the faces of those commemorating and felt humbled, even reflecting a bit on my own ancestors.
Later in the week, still feeling inspired, I went on an outing to Labor Park. I was able to photograph more of the people and events that truly make China such a fascinating place. For example, a street cleaner painting beautiful calligraphy on the ground with a water brush. These are the things that continually motivate me and what truly makes China, China.