Our expat community thrives on connection, and here at Jingkids, we’re all about our readers, what they need and want in order to maximize their time here in Beijing. Every Monday, we’re going to feature a prominent member of our expat community and get to know them a little bit better.
I’m Andrew Morrissey, hailing from sunny South Africa. I made Beijing my home close to 18 years ago and live here with my wife and two children, Liam (16) and Joy (7). When we’re not working or at swimming, rhythmic gymnastics, ballet and drumming, look for us relaxing at home. I might also be out on my bicycle in the western hills or along the Wenyu River. In spring and autumn, I’ll be out enjoying the birding on the “bird superhighway” that Beijing becomes twice a year.
What’s on your mind?
Recently, high school has been on my mind quite a lot. Liam is making subject choices for his two-year diploma. He’s thinking of a smart combination to follow his interests and offer him good choices for his university applications, but he’s still got to do the legwork to get there. Guess that this is what will keep our minds off everything else that is going on in the world right now, which is a pretty good thing.
What’s your motivation to get moving?
Make it to the gym, no matter how your body feels like dragging you somewhere else. You’ll feel great afterwards. Give yourself cheat days, yes, but have exercise goals and do something with them like sign up for a triathlon or a Spartan run. Challenge yourself to give yourself a sense of achievement. Get out of the house with family and friends on great weather days. Share new experiences with them.
How do you stay sane in all the madness?
A daily workout really helps. Also, reading and studying stuff that you’re passionate about gives a sense of direction and purpose. It’s also very helpful to remember that you live in an amazing city, surrounded by a great culture and that no matter how frustrating things might be from time to time, you’re still a guest here.
What’s your favorite thing about Beijing?
There are so many things, actually! I love all the cuisine from all over China and the rest of the world. We’re really spoiled for restaurant choices here in Beijing. I also really feel grateful for all the opportunities available to our kids. I grew up in a small town, with few choices that would expose me to new sports or skills.
I also love the light and the sky here. It’s so changeable. You can stop and look up and notice something on the skyline that’s always been there; you’ve just never noticed it before. The light and the color of the sky has thrown it into focus.
Have someone you believe deserves some recognition for their outstanding contributions to our community? Nominate them for our weekly spotlight by writing their name in the comments below!
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Images: Courtesy of Andrew Morrissey
