Born in Hong Kong, the speaker moved to the U.S. at 3, where he learned English, loved English literature, and forgot how to read/write Chinese. At 9, his parents suddenly announced a return to China in two weeks, leaving him furious. After tearful goodbyes, he flew to Hong Kong—his first impression was hot, humid, dirty, and foreign, with unreadable signs, unfamiliar Mandarin, and noise that felt like a nightmare (though he now loves the city). Later in Shanghai, he remembered sweltering heat, rare rain (compared to California), and people raising silkworms. Learning Chinese as a second language was painful: he took special classes with a Canadian Chinese classmate, but Chinese characters felt like confusing squiggles next to the English alphabet. He avoided it at first, but limited English translations forced him to learn, eventually gaining fluent speech and basic reading/writing.In China, the speaker discovered a fascination with its culture and people. Raised on U.S. history (spanning less than 250 years, taught in decades), China’s 5,000 years of civilization—ancient wonders and artworks predating Columbus or the Aztecs—was eye-opening. He also admired the Chinese people’s spirit: hard work, endurance, and purpose, similar to the “American Dream.” He noted China’s rapid development—construction sites becoming highways, towns, or metropolises in years—and the energy of progress pushing people to reach their potential. Though he acknowledged the “rat race” isn’t perfect, he said it effectively lifted a generation out of poverty and turned China into a global economic power. Finally, amid polarized global politics, he called for U.S.-China collaboration over conflict, urging both sides to learn from each other and引用 George Washington’s words about avoiding habitual hatred or fondness. My name is Jianyuan Cheng, I was born in Hong Kong, raised in the US, and have spent the past 7 years of my life in and around Shanghai China. In my spare time, I admire art and study finance. Today I will explore the theme of “Cultural Kaleidoscope” through the similarities and difference between American and Chinese cultures. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx