Fun fact from the scavenger hunt that our groups did today: Chin Men Theatre is what inspired Ang Lee to become a director, which led to the production of marvelous movies that we have all watched and love today... "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", "Brokeback Mountain", "Sense and Sensibility", and the first version of "The Hulk". It was really interesting to take a mini tour of the theatre and imagine how such a site could have had a significant influence on an individual, who would eventually one day create well-known films that would spread from Taiwan to all over the world. Plus, it was fun getting some snapshots with the life-size cardboard cut-out of Ang Lee as well.
A little after the scavenger hunt and each group's presentation on what we saw and learned--shout out to our group (Fritz's group) for having the best presentation!!--we got the opportunity to experience a martial arts lesson. Although it was a tiny bit hot and sweaty in the gym (understatement of the year), everyone had great spirits and really enjoyed learning the different moves that made up the routine we were taught. There were about 30 moves, and we all did such a great job thanks to the teachers and the many, many repetitions we went through for each move. Not only did we learn the routine, but we also extracted lessons of precision and concentration.
Dripping with sweat, clothes soaked to the skin, we all proudly and confidently completed the martial arts routine one last time. And then rushed to the fans and collapsed on the floor. Soon after, the teachers went through the routine again, demonstrating how practical all the moves were as defense mechanisms. I don't think anyone is going to want to mess with any of us :) All in all, it was a great Taiwanese experience!
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