Monday, May 13, 2013

English roses--Do you always play by the rules?


I am not the kind of person who likes to break rules especially when I think the rules are reasonable. But when the rules are set just for the sake of setting them, then I have to find ways to get around them without stepping on others' benefits. 




Years ago I visited England, and Cambridge and its colleges were on the top list. Before I got there, I imagined myself sitting on the long bench and reading my favourite book and paying tribute to one of my favourite Chinese writers who studied there 80 or 90 years ago.




I had no idea that the colleges were not shy from shutting all the tourists out saying that all colleges were closed during exam period--- early June. The first day I was in disappointment. That evening I tried to talk it out to my roommates in the hostel. Then I found out that most exams were held in the morning so basically afternoon visit would not bring such inconvenience to students. I received all kinds of suggestions. 'Hide your camera, try to look like a student.' 'Tell them that you study here.'  'Just break in.' 'Carry a few books then walk in.'  




Next day, I did carry out my plans. First I tried to get in from the back door telling the porter that I travelled a long way to get here and I was not able to stay till the colleges were open for visitors again. She asked me if I study there, being an honest person, I must say no, I am just a visitor. Of course she gave me another chance, again I told her no, I am not a student. So, honesty did not get me far. I must try to be smart.


(The stone was engraved with the lines taken out from the poem written by my favourite Chinese writer who studied in King's college 80 years ago)

For the next few hours, I just took photos outside and I stopped a Chinese student asking him how to get in. His answers surprised me. 'Well, just get in, you dont need to talk to the porter, I doubt if they would stop you as long as you look like you study here.' So he told me to follow him and see if they will stop me. It's true, no one asked for my student ID. After showing me the college he was in and me saying thanks to him. We parted and I continued my own little adventure. 




I used this method again and again, college after college, no one said a word. I remember when I was entering the door of King's college and looked straight at the eyes of the porter and wore a big smile, she remained calm and still. Yes, I got in, leaving others scratching their heads wondering how I did it. 




'I dont know how they let her in.' was the thing I heard when passing a group of students. I dont know either, I guess luck plays a big part, of course courage to take the first step is important as well.

It's worth taking a risk when I got to see the English garden and its roses. 





15 comments:

  1. What a brilliant idea,Cambridge is one of my favorite places, my DS lives just outside of there and works in Cambridge, so I would get a ride into town and spend the day wandering around the city. I never got inside the colleges, with my grey hair wouldn't pass as a student:), maybe I could get one of those black gowns and pretend to be a visiting teacher LOL. What's the name of the famous Chinese writer, I'd be interested in reading his works. I love the teacup, with the beautiful pink background and the gorgeous rose, and the gold trim of course, thanks for sharing your stories, I love them and your beautiful cup. Have a wonderful day. Its great to get your post in my mail:):)..

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    1. Dear Dianne,
      How many children do you have?
      It seems that you have children living all over the world. What a great idea to visit them all and the countries as well. You are a lucky lady.

      The name of the Chinese writer is Xu Zhimo. I will find out the translated version of his famous poem later.

      Hugs,
      Felicity

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  2. Hello Felicity,
    I think I would have been very disappointed too if I had not seen the colleges. You were smart and brave to get in! Yay!
    I have been to Oxford, and it is so beautiful. We rented a paddle boat and went around the river as well. What a lovely day! I am sure your college visits were very enjoyable, and the gardens too!
    Your tea cup is my favorite shape, and those vibrant pink roses are so gorgeous! It is a beautiful cup!
    Hugs,
    Terri

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    1. Yes, it's a long way from where I lived to the UK, i did not have a clue who set the rules. I guess sometimes it;s ok to break the rules as long as it's not affecting others or causing dangers to society.

      I have never been to Oxford, I chose between Oxford and Cambridge. I picked the latter. Save Oxford for next time.

      Thanks for your visit.

      Felicity

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  3. Hi Felicity: Where there is a will there is a away! Good job! Love your tea cup! Blessings, Martha

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  4. Exquisite tea cup. Those roses touch my heart! Susan

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  5. Hi Felicity,
    You always share interesting experiences together with your beautiful tea cups. I've already been to Cambridge myself, on a trip from London just for the day, but didn't visit the colleges inside... the truth is I didn't even try. Just the view from outside and the gardens made my day... and there wouldn't be time for more.
    Hugs

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    1. I can imagine you falling in love with the buildings in Cambridge as I have read your posts about you visiting different factories and buildings.

      I guess there will be another time to make the visit again Dear Maria.

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  6. Great story! I'm so glad you got to fulfill one of your dreams. Your rose teacup is beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

    Peace,
    Linda at The French Hens Nest

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    1. nice meeting you Linda.
      Thanks for your visit.

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  7. You are so pretty Felicity! I love Cambridge, it's fabulous and I enjoyed your story and it's so nice when we have a dream we can realize it one day. You shared another stunning tea cup! The tablecloth you saw is made right here in Ecuador, like tied- died, or Ikat style. Thanks for your sweet visit. Big hugs,
    FABBY

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    1. Thanks for your visit.
      I assume that you understand Spanish language since you live there. I have never been there but wish to visit.

      The table cloth is full of style. I thought it's from Mexico lol.

      Felicity

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  8. Such a pretty teacup! And a pretty young lady. Your adventures in college sound exciting.

    Thanks so much for stopping by!

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  9. The teacup is beautiful and so are you ! I enjoyed your tale of attempting to get into the colleges and also appreciate you're honest.

    You are very well-traveled. Who is your favorite Chinese poet ?

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  10. p.s. on Friday, May 17....Hello Felicity. Hope you have a wonderful weekend! Thanks for your visit. Susan

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