Artistic Traditions of Amdo, Summer 2007

Guiseppe (Sue's son) throws it up while while Jen and Cheryl spin mani wheels at Rongpo Gonpa

Take off your hat upon entrance
Sit where the host directs you
Try to sit cross legged, taking up only a small area
Do not step over people or their clothing
Do not step over books or photographs
Gather your skirt when moving past someone or something (women)
Do not smell food before eating it
Always try to eat or drink a little bit of what your host offers
Remember: it's okay to ask for more
Do not rub your belly after meals
There are no "take outs" in a Tibetan household
Do not kiss or show open affection to the opposite sex in public or in front of elders
Do not touch people on the top of their heads (it's considered sacred)
Remember to present or accept items open handed
Remember not to point
Do not put shoes or socks near a shrine or under your pillow
Do not pass an object over a stove
Do not step on a pillow or quilt
Remember to use both hands when accepting a bowl or cup from a person
Remember: gifts are usually presented to host families as a sign of appreciation
Whistling at night= Bad!
Try to use mainly the right hand when eating

Guidelines courtesy of Joseph, a student at Kevin Stuart's English Training Program at Qinghai Normal University, in Xining China.

Tomorrow we begin the "meat and potatoes" of our course here in Tibet. We will be introduced to our homestay families and have the opportunity to live with them and gain understanding of their lifestyles. Good luck everyone and put your best foot foreward!

Love and best wishes,

Tiffany