From Grits to Chopsticks

In the west, we often have a special day for taking a child to work.  The son or daughter may get a tour of the factory or office, participate in a meal, and hear a special speaker.

For many people in China, everyday is “take your child to work day.”  Tiny children wander through the market while their parents sell vegetables; they sit in the back of large trikes while their mother sorts through trash; and they climb on piles of recyclables while their father bargains for a decent price:

Here is a photo of the most extreme case I’ve seen – a woman busting rocks with a sledge hammer (to scavange rebar) with a baby on her back:

Remember this image the next time you’re tempted to complain!