Honestly, it is difficult to capture with words how much this trip to Xinjiang has meant to me. Xinjiang is more beautiful than I imagined, even more so when I understand the relentless battle taking place to prevent the Gobi desert from reclaiming many towns and cities and Xinjiang. The lush green fields of corn, cotton, melons, tomatoes and vast arbors of grapes speak of the persistence and ingenuity of the Chinese. My visit took me to places where some daily activities have not changed in thousands of years. Turpan, despite the tremendous heat, has always been a commercial center, a grape growing region, and a major stopping point on the Silk Road. In Kanasi, Mongols still live in yurts and pasture sheep and cattle much in the same way there forefathers did centuries earlier. 

Despite the vastness of Xinjiang I was struck by how each minority group has preserved their culture. The dancers and performances we saw, the different cuisines we sampled, and the fact that language and national dress are preserved speak to that. Despite their being many ethnic groups, people strive to live in harmony and make a better China. I think of visits to two minority villages where people took us into their homes to share a meal. Both Hui and Kazak said their lives had improved over the years from the hard times living in the desert. From Uygur to Kazak, from Hui to Mongol, and ethnic groups I still know very little about, I always had a hand of welcome and friendship extended to me.

At Stone River City I was impressed by how the army is investing in education, technology and construction to create vibrant, thriving communities. The Army Museum was so impressive. It really told the story of sacrifice and hardship the army endured where once desert sands ruled fragrant flowers and fruit tress have replaced barren wilderness. I was glad to learn the army is still committed to the growth and health of the region.

I know Xinjiang is still a work in progress. It is obvious looking at all the building and modernization going on that this region is one of great importance to China. However there is still a struggle with the desert which I believe the Xinjiang people will win for the benefit of the nation. As I prepared to leave Xinjiang I know this beautiful place and the memories I have gained will always have a special place in my heart. I felt the warmth of the Xinjiang people and know I will leave a little bit of myself behind. I hope one day to return. One visit is not enough to experience or learn about this marvelous region of China. Of course it goes without saying that there was not enough time to savor the different, wonderful Xinjiang cuisines. My gratitude goes out to CRI and the government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region for making my dream to visit China one day a reality. It is a dream I don't want to wake up from.