How do you feel about stories that teach moral lessons?
- I love stories that have deeper meanings and values.
- I appreciate a good moral lesson, but it shouldn’t overshadow the entertainment value.
- I prefer stories that are purely for entertainment, without feeling preachy.
- I think there’s always something to be learned from a good story, even if it’s not explicitly stated.
What’s your favorite example of a magical object from these stories?
- The Golden Beetle, for its ability to grant wishes.
- The Great Bell, for its representation of unity and harmony.
- The Wooden Tablet, for its connection to family and ancestors.
- The Talking Fish, for its wisdom and knowledge.
What makes you nervous about the idea of fate and divine intervention?
- The idea that my life is predetermined and I have no control over it.
- The possibility of a higher power intervening in my life, even if it’s for my own good.
- Not knowing what the future holds and having to trust in something I can’t see or understand.
- The potential for supernatural forces to have a negative impact on my life.
What makes you most frustrated about the challenges faced by characters in these stories?
- The prevalence of poverty and hunger, and the lack of opportunities for many people.
- The cruelty and abuse inflicted by those in positions of power.
- The threat of evil spirits and supernatural beings, and the feeling of being powerless against them.
- The difficult moral dilemmas characters are faced with, and the lack of easy answers.
What are you most excited about when exploring a new culture through stories?
- Learning about different values, beliefs, and traditions.
- Discovering new perspectives and ways of looking at the world.
- Immersing myself in a different time and place.
- Connecting with the universal human experiences that transcend cultural boundaries.
What do you dream about when it comes to experiencing magic in your own life?
- Encountering talking animals and wise spirits who could guide me.
- Discovering a magical object that could solve my problems or grant my wishes.
- Escaping to a magical world where anything is possible.
- Finding a deeper meaning and purpose in my everyday life.
What comes to mind when you think about the story of the Great Bell and the sacrifices made?
- The importance of community and working together for a common goal.
- The selfless love and dedication of a child for their parent.
- The bittersweet beauty of a sacrifice made for something larger than oneself.
- The enduring power of art and its ability to inspire and unite people.
What’s your favorite memory related to reading fairytales or folklore?
- The feeling of being transported to another world.
- The sense of wonder and possibility that these stories evoked.
- The comfort and familiarity of revisiting beloved tales from my childhood.
- The discussions and connections I’ve shared with others who appreciate folklore.
What causes are you most passionate about in relation to the themes of these stories?
- Fighting for social justice and equality for all people.
- Protecting the environment and preserving cultural heritage.
- Promoting education and understanding between different cultures.
- Supporting those who are struggling with poverty, abuse, or other forms of hardship.
What is your absolute favorite aspect of Chinese culture after exploring these stories?
- The rich history and mythology that permeate Chinese culture.
- The emphasis on family, respect for elders, and tradition.
- The beautiful art, music, and literature that China has produced.
- The philosophical and spiritual teachings that offer guidance and wisdom.
How would your friends and family describe your approach to life’s challenges, inspired by these stories?
- As someone who faces challenges with courage and determination.
- As someone who always tries to see the good in others and offer kindness.
- As someone who is guided by their values and strives to make ethical choices.
- As someone who believes in the power of hope and never gives up on their dreams.
Tell us a little about your perspective on the role of supernatural beings in storytelling.
- I find them fascinating and enjoy exploring the different ways they are portrayed.
- I see them as symbolic representations of human fears, desires, and beliefs.
- I appreciate how they add an element of wonder and magic to stories.
- I’m open to the possibility of their existence, even if I haven’t personally experienced it.
If you could choose any magical ability from these stories, which one would you choose and why?
- The ability to talk to animals, to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world.
- The power to heal others, to alleviate suffering and bring comfort.
- The gift of foresight, to make wise choices and avoid potential dangers.
- The talent for creating illusions, to bring joy and entertainment to others.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when a character encounters a difficult moral dilemma?
- I try to put myself in their shoes and understand the factors influencing their decision.
- I consider the potential consequences of each choice and try to determine the most ethical course of action.
- I reflect on similar situations I’ve faced in my own life and how I’ve handled them.
- I consult my own moral compass and values to guide my judgment.
What affects you the most when reading about characters who overcome adversity?
- Their resilience and determination to overcome difficult circumstances.
- The kindness and support they receive from unexpected sources.
- The moments of hope and triumph that emerge from their struggles.
- The realization that even in the darkest of times, there is always a possibility for a better future.
What’s your idea of a perfect ending for a story like these?
- A satisfying resolution where good triumphs over evil and justice is served.
- A heartwarming conclusion where characters find love, happiness, and fulfillment.
- An open-ended finale that leaves room for imagination and invites the reader to ponder the possibilities.
- A bittersweet epilogue that acknowledges the complexities of life and the lingering impact of the events.
What is your strongest personal quality that aligns with the themes of virtue and kindness in these stories?
- My empathy and compassion for others.
- My commitment to honesty and integrity.
- My willingness to help those in need.
- My belief in the power of forgiveness.
How do you feel about the idea of a talking animal giving you life advice?
- I’d be open to hearing what they have to say – wisdom can come from unexpected sources.
- I might be a little skeptical, but I’d listen with an open mind.
- I’d probably find it amusing, but wouldn’t take it too seriously.
- I’d be a little freaked out, to be honest.
What’s your favorite example of a character overcoming a difficult challenge in these stories?
- The widow’s son in “The Golden Beetle” learning a valuable lesson about greed and betrayal.
- The cannon maker in “The Great Bell” understanding the true meaning of filial piety through sacrifice.
- The young girl in “Lu-San, Daughter of Heaven” escaping a life of cruelty and finding love and acceptance.
- The woodcutter’s mother in “The Nodding Tiger” seeking justice for her son’s death.
When you were a kid, how did you feel about stories that included magical or fantastical elements?
- I loved them! They sparked my imagination and transported me to other worlds.
- I was a bit wary of them, preferring stories grounded in reality.
- I enjoyed them, but I also sought out stories with relatable characters and situations.
- I loved learning about different mythologies and creatures.
You have a choice between receiving a visit from a wise talking animal or finding a magical object that grants wishes. Which do you choose?
- A wise talking animal, as I value guidance and knowledge.
- A magical object that grants wishes, as I’m drawn to the possibilities it holds.
A specific situation arises where you find a lost object that doesn’t belong to you. How do you react?
- I try my best to locate the rightful owner and return it.
- I might be tempted to keep it, but ultimately I’d feel guilty and return it.
- I would leave it where it is, hoping the owner will come back for it.
- I might consider selling it or giving it away if I couldn’t find the owner.
What keeps you up at night about the state of the world and the challenges people face, reflecting on these stories?
- The persistence of poverty, inequality, and injustice in the world.
- The potential for greed, selfishness, and hatred to cause harm to others.
- The fragility of life and the inevitability of loss and suffering.
- The importance of staying true to one’s values in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable.
Which of these themes from A Chinese Wonder Book would you enjoy exploring the most in a contemporary setting?
- The importance of family and tradition in a rapidly changing world.
- The conflict between personal ambition and social responsibility in a competitive society.
- The power of technology and its potential impact on human connection and morality.
- The search for meaning and purpose in a world saturated with information and distractions.
When you think about the moral lessons presented in these stories, what are you most concerned about in your own life?
- Ensuring that I live a life that is aligned with my values.
- Making a positive impact on the world and leaving it a better place than I found it.
- Being a good person to those around me and nurturing meaningful relationships.
- Finding a balance between my own needs and the needs of others.
What aspect of human nature, as depicted in these stories, makes you the most happy?
- The capacity for kindness, compassion, and love, even in the face of adversity.
- The resilience of the human spirit and the ability to overcome challenges.
- The power of hope and the belief in a better future.
- The enduring strength of family and community.
What is most likely to make you feel down about the world, reflecting on the challenges faced by characters in these stories?
- When people allow greed, selfishness, and hatred to dictate their actions.
- When those in positions of power abuse their authority and harm others.
- When individuals are silenced, marginalized, or denied their basic human rights.
- When apathy and indifference prevent people from taking action against injustice.
In a perfect world, what would the relationship between humans and the supernatural be like?
- One of mutual respect, where humans and supernatural beings co-exist harmoniously.
- One where humans can learn from the wisdom and guidance of benevolent supernatural beings.
- One where the supernatural remains a source of wonder and mystery, inspiring awe and imagination.
- One where humans have developed the ability to harness and control supernatural powers responsibly.
If you could waive a magic wand, what would the perfect solution be to the challenges of poverty and inequality in the world?
- To instill in every heart a deep sense of compassion and a desire to help those less fortunate.
- To create a world where everyone has access to education, healthcare, and equal opportunities.
- To eliminate greed and corruption, ensuring that resources are distributed fairly and justly.
- To empower individuals and communities to break free from cycles of poverty and create a brighter future.
How often do you reflect on the moral lessons you’ve learned from stories, whether in books or movies?
- Quite often, I find that stories can offer valuable insights into human nature and ethical dilemmas.
- Occasionally, when a particular story or character resonates with me on a deeper level.
- Rarely, I tend to view stories as a form of entertainment rather than a source of moral instruction.
- I’m not sure I consciously reflect on them, but I’m sure they influence my worldview in subtle ways.
You are at a party and the topic of traditional Chinese folklore comes up. What do you do?
- I enthusiastically join the conversation, eager to share my knowledge and hear different perspectives.
- I listen with interest, learning as much as I can about a topic I find fascinating.
- I politely engage in the conversation, but steer it towards more familiar territory.
- I excuse myself and find someone else to talk to, as it’s not really my area of interest.
How comfortable are you with the idea of supernatural beings influencing the events in your life?
- Very comfortable, I believe in a spiritual realm that interacts with our own.
- Somewhat comfortable, I’m open to the possibility but don’t actively seek it out.
- Not very comfortable, I prefer to focus on the tangible aspects of life.
- Not at all comfortable, I find the idea unsettling and prefer to stay away from it.
You have a free weekend to do whatever you want. What do you do?
- I curl up with a good book and lose myself in another world.
- I explore a new part of my city, soaking in the sights and sounds.
- I spend time with loved ones, catching up and creating new memories.
- I indulge in a creative pursuit, whether it’s writing, painting, or playing music.
Which of these concepts from A Chinese Wonder Book is most likely to be a struggle for you to fully embrace?
- The idea of fate and predetermined destiny, as I believe in free will and personal agency.
- The importance of filial piety, as my upbringing instilled different values around family dynamics.
- The acceptance of social hierarchy and the importance of fulfilling one’s designated role.
- The presence of evil spirits and the potential for supernatural harm, as I prefer a more rational worldview.
Which character from A Chinese Wonder Book do you most identify with?
- Kwan-Yin, for her compassion, wisdom, and dedication to helping others.
- Lu-San, for her innocence, resilience, and ability to find light in dark situations.
- The Tiger, for his capacity for transformation and his loyalty to those he cares about.
- Iron Staff, for her whimsical nature and her desire to reward acts of kindness.
Someone brings up the story of the golden beetle and how the characters could have handled things differently. What is your first response?
- I jump into the conversation, eager to discuss the moral implications of their choices and explore alternative outcomes.
- I listen attentively, considering the different perspectives and how the characters’ actions reflect their values.
- I offer a brief comment or two, but mostly observe the discussion, finding it interesting to see how others interpret the story.
- I politely excuse myself from the conversation, as I’m not particularly invested in dissecting fictional scenarios.
Someone asks, “How’s life treating you?” What’s the actual answer, not just “I’m good”?
- Life’s been a bit of a whirlwind lately, but I’m learning and growing from every experience.
- I’m grateful for the good things in my life, and I’m facing the challenges with as much grace as I can muster.
- I’m taking things one day at a time, trying to find joy in the little moments.
- To be honest, it’s a bit of a mixed bag, but I’m hopeful for the future.
What’s your go-to genre of music, podcast, or TV show when you need a dose of magic and wonder in your life?
- Fantasy novels that transport me to richly imagined worlds filled with magic and adventure.
- Mythology podcasts that explore the stories and beliefs of different cultures.
- Nature documentaries that showcase the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
- Science fiction shows that spark my imagination about the possibilities of the future.
What aspect of Chinese culture, as depicted in A Chinese Wonder Book, do you most want to dive deeper into?
- The symbolism and mythology, uncovering the deeper meanings behind the stories and characters.
- The history and societal norms, understanding the context in which these tales originated.
- The philosophical and religious beliefs, exploring concepts like Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism.
- The arts and crafts, learning more about traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy, or music.
How prepared are you to face unexpected challenges and moral dilemmas in your own life, inspired by the resilience of these characters?
- Very prepared. I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and believe in my ability to navigate difficult situations.
- Somewhat prepared. I try to approach challenges with a level head and draw strength from my values and support system.
- Not very prepared. I tend to avoid conflict and struggle with making difficult decisions.
- I’m not sure. I hope I would rise to the occasion, but I’ve been fortunate to avoid major challenges so far.
What happens if you were to encounter a situation that challenges your core values and beliefs?
- I stand firm in my convictions, even if it means going against the grain or facing opposition.
- I try to understand the other perspective and find a compromise that aligns with my values.
- I might struggle with doubt and uncertainty, but ultimately I strive to make choices I can live with.
- I might adapt my values or beliefs if I felt they were no longer serving me or the situation.
What do you think you need to cultivate more of in your own life, inspired by the virtues celebrated in these stories?
- Compassion and empathy for others, making a conscious effort to understand and help those in need.
- Courage and determination, standing up for what I believe in and pursuing my goals with passion.
- Humility and gratitude, appreciating the good things in my life and recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings.
- Patience and forgiveness, letting go of anger and resentment and giving others (and myself) the space to grow.
How often do you actively seek out opportunities to learn about different cultures and perspectives?
- Very often. I believe it’s essential to broaden my horizons and challenge my own assumptions.
- Fairly often. I enjoy experiencing new cultures through travel, food, or the arts.
- Occasionally. I’m open to it, but it’s not something I actively prioritize in my daily life.
- Rarely. I’m content with my current understanding of the world.
How confident are you in your ability to make ethical choices and stand up for what you believe in?
- Very confident. I have a strong moral compass and I’m not afraid to speak my truth.
- Somewhat confident. I generally trust my instincts, but I also recognize the complexity of ethical dilemmas.
- Not very confident. I often second-guess myself and worry about making the wrong choice.
- It depends on the situation. I feel more confident when I have time to reflect and consider my options.
How do you handle situations where you witness injustice or unfair treatment?
- I speak up and take action, even in small ways, to challenge the situation.
- I try to support the person or group being harmed, offering empathy and assistance.
- I feel deeply troubled, but I hesitate to get involved, fearing potential consequences.
- I try to rationalize it or distance myself from it, as it can be overwhelming to confront injustice.
Do you believe that stories have the power to teach us valuable lessons about life and morality?
- Yes, absolutely. Stories can open our minds to different perspectives, challenge our assumptions, and inspire us to be better people.
- To some extent. Stories can be entertaining and thought-provoking, but their ability to change behavior is debatable.
- I’m not sure. I think people are more influenced by their personal experiences and upbringing than by fictional stories.
- No, not really. I see stories as a form of escapism, not as a guidebook for life.
How well do you stick to your convictions when faced with pressure to conform or compromise?
- Extremely well. I am deeply rooted in my values and rarely swayed by external pressures.
- Fairly well. I can stand my ground, but I’m also willing to listen to other viewpoints and find common ground.
- I struggle with it. I want to be true to myself, but I also don’t want to disappoint others or rock the boat.
- Not very well. I tend to adapt to my surroundings and prioritize harmony over confrontation.
Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your approach to personal growth and self-reflection?
- I am committed to continuous learning and growth, always seeking new opportunities to challenge myself and expand my horizons.
- I value personal growth and make an effort to reflect on my experiences, but I also appreciate moments of stillness and contentment.
- I’m open to personal growth, but it’s not something I actively pursue. I tend to go with the flow and let life unfold naturally.
- I’m not sure if personal growth is something I prioritize. I’m generally comfortable with who I am and how I navigate the world.
To what degree do you experience a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around you?
- To a very high degree. I’m constantly amazed by the beauty, complexity, and mystery of life.
- To a moderate degree. I appreciate the wonders of the world, but I can also get caught up in the routine and mundane aspects of daily life.
- To a limited degree. I’m more focused on practical matters and don’t often stop to smell the roses.
- To a very small degree. I tend to view the world through a pragmatic lens, focusing on what’s tangible and immediate.
Which of these best describes your current approach to life’s journey?
- I’m actively pursuing my dreams, embracing challenges, and seeking out new experiences.
- I’m navigating life with a mix of intention and surrender, trusting the process and staying open to possibilities.
- I’m taking things one day at a time, finding joy in the simple things, and letting life unfold naturally.
- I’m focused on creating stability and security, prioritizing practicality and routine.
What is your current biggest challenge when it comes to embracing the wisdom of these stories?
- Finding the time and space in my busy life to truly reflect on the lessons and apply them to my own experiences.
- Overcoming my own skepticism or cynicism, allowing myself to believe in the possibility of magic and wonder.
- Breaking free from limiting beliefs or patterns of behavior that prevent me from living a more fulfilling life.
- Connecting with the cultural context of the stories, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern life.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you face a setback or obstacle in your personal or professional life?
- “What can I learn from this experience?” I view setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.
- “How can I overcome this?” I focus on finding solutions and taking action to move forward.
- “Why is this happening to me?” I might struggle with self-doubt or frustration when things don’t go my way.
- “I need to rethink my strategy.” I analyze the situation and adjust my approach accordingly.
How do you handle feelings of self-doubt or insecurity, particularly when comparing yourself to others?
- I remind myself that everyone is on their own unique journey and that comparison is the thief of joy.
- I focus on my strengths and accomplishments, acknowledging my own progress and growth.
- I talk to a trusted friend or mentor, seeking support and perspective.
- I try to distract myself from those thoughts by focusing on other things.
How would you describe your relationship to your cultural heritage or family traditions?
- I feel deeply connected to my heritage and find meaning and grounding in my family’s traditions.
- I appreciate my cultural background and incorporate certain aspects of it into my life.
- I’m interested in learning more about my heritage, but I don’t feel a strong connection to it.
- I don’t identify strongly with my cultural heritage and prefer to forge my own path.
Are you stuck in a pattern of self-sabotage or limiting beliefs that prevent you from achieving your full potential?
- I’m aware of some patterns that hold me back, and I’m actively working on breaking free from them.
- I believe I have the power to create the life I want, but I recognize that self-sabotage can be a challenge at times.
- I’m not sure if self-sabotage is something I struggle with. I generally feel in control of my choices and actions.
- I’m not really focused on achieving my “full potential.” I’m more interested in living a fulfilling life on my own terms.
What would you say are your top struggles right now when it comes to living a more fulfilling and meaningful life?
- Finding a balance between my personal and professional life, nurturing my passions while also meeting my responsibilities.
- Overcoming fear and self-doubt, stepping outside of my comfort zone to pursue my dreams.
- Letting go of the need to control everything, trusting the process and embracing uncertainty.
- Connecting with my purpose, figuring out what truly matters to me and aligning my actions with my values.
What is your ultimate goal when it comes to personal growth and self-discovery?
- To become the best version of myself, living a life filled with purpose, joy, and meaningful connections.
- To gain a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me, continuously learning and evolving.
- To create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling, aligned with my values and aspirations.
- To find inner peace and contentment, accepting myself and my life with compassion and grace.
What do you think is missing in your life right now that would help you feel more connected to your true self or a sense of purpose?
- A stronger connection to my intuition and inner wisdom, trusting my gut and making decisions that feel aligned with my soul.
- A deeper sense of community and belonging, surrounding myself with people who support and inspire me.
- More time for self-care and creative expression, nurturing my passions and allowing myself to simply be.
- A clearer vision for my future, setting goals that excite me and taking action steps to achieve them.
What is your current level of satisfaction with your life, on a scale of 1 to 10 (1 being not at all satisfied, 10 being completely satisfied)?
- 8-10: I am generally happy and fulfilled, grateful for the good things in my life.
- 5-7: I have my ups and downs, but overall I feel content with where I’m at.
- 2-4: I feel like something is missing, and I’m yearning for more meaning or fulfillment.
- 1: I am feeling lost and unfulfilled, struggling to find my place in the world.
You’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to move forward. You remember the story of the woodcutter’s mother persevering. How do you respond?
- I draw strength and inspiration from the story, reminding myself that even in the face of adversity, perseverance and determination can lead to a brighter outcome.
- I use the story as a starting point for reflection, considering how the characters’ actions might offer guidance for my own situation.
- I appreciate the story for its entertainment value, but I don’t necessarily see it as a source of practical advice for my own life.
- I find it difficult to connect with the story, as my own cultural background and beliefs differ significantly from those depicted in the tale.
What word describes how you feel most often: curious, content, driven, or peaceful?
- Curious. I’m always eager to learn new things and explore different perspectives.
- Content. I appreciate the good things in my life and find joy in the present moment.
- Driven. I’m ambitious and motivated to achieve my goals and make a difference in the world.
- Peaceful. I prioritize inner harmony and strive to approach life with calmness and grace.
Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis?
- Whether I’m making the most of my time and opportunities.
- Maintaining strong relationships with loved ones.
- Achieving financial stability and security.
- Finding my purpose and making a meaningful contribution to the world.
How fulfilled and inspired do you feel in your current life path?
- Extremely fulfilled and inspired. I wake up every day excited to pursue my passions and make a difference.
- Moderately fulfilled and inspired. I have my dream job and a loving family, but I still crave more meaning or excitement.
- Somewhat fulfilled and inspired. I’m content with my life, but I sometimes wonder if I’m truly living up to my potential.
- Not very fulfilled or inspired. I feel stuck in a rut, yearning for a change or a greater sense of purpose.
How well do you balance your need for stability and security with your desire for adventure and new experiences?
- I’ve found a good balance. I prioritize both stability and adventure, creating a life that feels both grounding and exciting.
- I lean more towards stability. I thrive on routine and predictability, but I also make an effort to step outside of my comfort zone occasionally.
- I crave adventure. I’m always seeking new experiences, even if it means sacrificing some stability.
- I’m still figuring it out. I’m working on finding a balance that feels right for me.
How connected do you feel to your cultural heritage, whether through family traditions, language, or beliefs?
- Deeply connected. My cultural heritage is an integral part of my identity and shapes my worldview.
- Moderately connected. I appreciate my cultural background and incorporate certain aspects of it into my life.
- Slightly connected. I’m interested in learning more, but I don’t feel a strong pull towards it.
- Not at all connected. I don’t identify strongly with my cultural heritage and prefer to create my own traditions.
Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you when thinking about the characters and their choices?
- Characters who make impulsive decisions without considering the consequences.
- Characters who prioritize personal gain over the well-being of others.
- Characters who fail to learn from their mistakes and repeat the same patterns of behavior.
- Characters who succumb to societal pressures and betray their own values.
What is the trickiest part about applying ancient wisdom and moral lessons to modern life?
- Bridging the gap between the cultural context of the stories and the complexities of contemporary society.
- Deciphering the metaphors and symbolism often found in folklore and interpreting their relevance to modern-day issues.
- Overcoming skepticism or cynicism, allowing myself to be open to the wisdom of ancient traditions.
- Finding practical applications for the lessons, translating abstract concepts into actionable steps.
Do you lean more towards believing that life is predetermined by fate or that we have the power to create our own destiny through our choices?
- I believe in fate. I think our lives are guided by a higher power, and everything happens for a reason.
- I believe in free will. I think we have the power to shape our own destinies through the choices we make.
- I believe in a combination of both. I think we have a certain degree of free will within the framework of a larger plan.
- I’m not sure what I believe. It’s a complex question, and I’m still figuring it out.
Do you have a strong support system in place, such as close friends, family, or a mentor, who you can turn to for guidance and support?
- Yes, I have a wonderful support system that I can always rely on.
- I have a few close friends and family members who I trust and confide in.
- I’m more of a lone wolf. I prefer to figure things out on my own.
- I’m working on building stronger connections and creating a more supportive network.