Blog from China - Thursday
Well...this time I really did it.
There I was, live from Beijing on TODAY. Matt threw it to me at the top of the show with a simple, "Good morning, Meredith.” I should have said, "Good morning, Matt and Ann" and left it at that. But noooo...I had to add, "Or should I say good evening. It's just past 7 p.m. here in Beirut."
“BEIRUT?!” What was I thinking? I didn't even realize what I had said until I called my husband after the show and he told me. Anyway, no need to adjust your TV's. The only thing out of whack is me.
Meredith, live from Beijing
Speaking of wacky, should you visit Beijing (yes, I do mean Beijing!), be extra careful crossing the street. Cars and pedestrians co-existing is still a new concept here and they're still working out the proper road etiquette. While driving back from the Great Wall the other day with our fixer, Joy, I couldn't believe how many people stepped blindly into the middle of traffic. I finally asked her, "Doesn't anyone look up?"
"No," said Joy. "In America, when pedestrians make eye contact with a driver, it's a signal to the driver to slow down and yield the right of way. In Beijing, it's a signal to the driver that the pedestrian knows there’s a car barreling down at them. If they get hit, it's their fault."
Now I'm really lost!
Meredith with press pass, in Beijing
There I was, live from Beijing on TODAY. Matt threw it to me at the top of the show with a simple, "Good morning, Meredith.” I should have said, "Good morning, Matt and Ann" and left it at that. But noooo...I had to add, "Or should I say good evening. It's just past 7 p.m. here in Beirut."
“BEIRUT?!” What was I thinking? I didn't even realize what I had said until I called my husband after the show and he told me. Anyway, no need to adjust your TV's. The only thing out of whack is me.
Speaking of wacky, should you visit Beijing (yes, I do mean Beijing!), be extra careful crossing the street. Cars and pedestrians co-existing is still a new concept here and they're still working out the proper road etiquette. While driving back from the Great Wall the other day with our fixer, Joy, I couldn't believe how many people stepped blindly into the middle of traffic. I finally asked her, "Doesn't anyone look up?"
"No," said Joy. "In America, when pedestrians make eye contact with a driver, it's a signal to the driver to slow down and yield the right of way. In Beijing, it's a signal to the driver that the pedestrian knows there’s a car barreling down at them. If they get hit, it's their fault."
Now I'm really lost!
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Hey Meredith just be glad that Matt didn't say something to you on live tv....actually I am shocked that he didn't. I thought I heard you say Beirut and then I thought well maybe I misunderstood. Thanks for clearing that up and guess what...hey everyone makes mistakes.
So in other words when you are crossing the streets there it is like taking your life in your hands. Now that would be something a thrill seeker would like!
Hope you enjoy the rest of your time in China!
Meredith
Don't feel bad. You'll have to replay it but check out John McCain's interview with Matt I could have sworn as did Lenny that Johh call Matt, Doug. So no need to worry you're not alone LOL.
Meredith,
It is so great of you to share your experiences with us during your China trip and to see the pictures- from the heartbreaking to the heartwarming. It's been inspiring and breathtaking. Thanks!
I think it is sweet that your husband noticed. He takes an interest in your work life!
I watched your broadcast and wondered why didn't anybody correct you or something. Can't wait to see you tomorrow. :)
Ha! Meredith, that's why I feel like I could sit down and chat with you in a coffee shop - my mind is always going too fast for my mouth! I heard you say Beirut, too, but I just chuckled and chalked it up to jet lag. I love that blog about your missteps and can laugh about them - it makes for an interesting read and a delightful glimpse into your personality. So now I'm curious, though - what was your biggest "oops!" on live TV?
I thought you said Beirut, but I was sure I just misheard. Oh well, besides that small slip, your broadcast was great. Terribly sad, but very touching and important for all of us to hear about.
Whoa Meredith, you're getting spoiled by having the tourists out there on the plaza. Did you think the pandas would be holding signs? :)
Hi Meredith,
I just sent this link to my daughter in Columbus. She leaves on June 22nd for 6 weeks in China. She will be teaching conversational English to Chinese teachers. I think your information on traffic will be helpful to her.
Liz
meredith,
your blogs from China have been awesome! i have enjoyed your segments.
Meredith dear, you've inspired me to write to you this morning. You look absolutely stunning! You've experienced life in "Full Circle" (as you stated) and I can see the change in you. Your brightness, softness, and compassion are shining.
Keep shining, my dear. Your full potential, at full circle is amazing.
Oneness blessings.
Signed, Denna
Meredith,
I've really enjoyed your stories and your adventures in China!!! Wow! Thanks for taking us along!!!!
Now, hurry up and get back to NY! Miss ya!
p.s.- Also, I really feel for the loss of Tim Russert. Gosh! I loved him and I know all of you at Today did as well. I loved when you interviewed him and got his thoughts on the election/politics. He always had a gleam of joy in his eye - a love of life and a love of his job. I could tell he was a big teddy bear and I know he'll be very missed. Hugs to you, Meredith! I bet it was a shock to hear the news. :(
Hi Meredith... How are you handling the news of Tim Russert passing away? Im sure your handling it like everyone else does.. with grief, but with bravery and courage. I loved all the segments you guys put together about Tim and to remember all his good times. I can't wait to grow up and become a journalist! Can't wait to have you back from China. You do such an amazing job!
I know this is not the place to ask questions but I was wondering if anybody else has trouble viewing the videos on the today show website. I was saddened to hear about Tim Russert and wanted to watch the videos that were on. But for the last few weeks, I have not been able to view the videos. I can view videos off ABC website, like the View. I have Adobe version 9 downloaded but it still does not work. Is it possible to have a non-video transcript available?? It takes you to a black screen and nothing plays. HELP, HELP!!!!!
The Midwest is going through a tough time now. Could NBC please allot more air time for their stories.
Been to Beijing myself and other parts about China too. What strikes me the most is how unequally the country is developed. Beijing is beautiful and so is Shanghai, but the same can't be said for many other provinces.
The thing about traffic you were saying? Yeah, that's the same all through the middle kingdom. And scale, when the Chinese do something, you can be sure that size does matter!
Hope you enjoy the rest of your trip. =)
And look both ways when you cross the roads.
Hey Meredith,
Don't mean to be "that person" but this morning when you were speaking about the loss of Tim Russert you said "...and to quote The Lord's Prayer 'My cup runneth over'..." Unfortunately, you were quoting Psalm 23, not the Lord's Prayer. The Lord's Prayer is found in the Gospels and it does not contain "My cup runneth over..." Just wanted you to know!
Hi,Meredith.Welcome to China!