Being a foreigner in China leads to many interesting encounters, mostly with the locals, people of everyday countenaces. Directly across from my apartment is a little strip of stores and restaurants. It's quite convientent when dinner time rolls around, and tonight I sauntered through the alley to the restaurant that is nearest my apartment. Upon entering I was greeted with shocked faces, as I'd never been in there before and it's quite possible that the people in the restaurant had never seen a foreigner close up. I busted out my phrasebook and ordered a couple simple dishes. The workers in the establishment were quite surprised I could order in Chinese and their suspicion melted away and was transformed into smiles and offers of cigarettes and beer. I sat down and waited for my food as two gentleman initiated some conversation. I found out that they were workers across the street at a major construction project. They wanted to know what I did in China and of course the subject of my salary came up. I told them to bring their food to my table so we could chat a little more conviently. They were more than happy, and promptly told me to help them finish their dinner. Every time I reached over for a little of their food, their faces lit up and I could tell they were content I was making myself at home. I sat with them for an hour or so, and when I had to leave, they made me promist I'd come back tomorrow to continue our conversation. Seeing as it's so close, I'm quite sure I'll be seeing them and the restaurant again. Little treasure such as that restaurant and it's patrons are numerous, if you only have the courage to look.