On China’s Birthday, a Foreigner Did This and Went Viral

Source: OT-Team(G), 珠海特区报

Recently, a German man named Barnet, who has been living in China for over two decades, shared a heartfelt post online about how he chose to celebrate this year's National Day holiday in a unique way. 

Instead of joining the crowds for parties or travel, Barnet spent the day hiking alone on Phoenix Mountain in Zhuhai, collecting discarded plastic bottles along the trail as his special birthday gift to China.

"Yesterday was National Day — my 21st one in China," Barnet wrote. "While most people were relaxing with family or traveling during the holiday, my celebration was a bit different. I went hiking on Phoenix Mountain again, and as a gesture of gratitude to the country that has hosted me for over twenty years, I picked up the empty bottles left behind along the path."

Barnet explained that, for him, true celebration means giving back in a meaningful way.

"When many people choose to celebrate through gatherings or sightseeing, I prefer to shoulder my backpack, walk into the mountains, and take away what doesn't belong in nature," he said. "It's my way of expressing love and appreciation for this land that has embraced me for so long."

He described the beauty of Phoenix Mountain — its lush greenery and sweeping views — but also noted the scattered plastic bottles along the roadside, in the bushes, and near scenic overlooks.

"I picked them up one by one and put them into my bag. It's such a simple act, but every time I bent down, I felt deeply satisfied," he wrote. "To me, real blessings come from small actions. Loving a country is like loving a person or a home — it's reflected in how much you're willing to do to make it better."

Having witnessed China's remarkable transformation over the past two decades, Barnet said he also understands the environmental challenges that have accompanied rapid development.

"That's why on this National Day, I chose to act rather than just celebrate," he continued. "I wish for China's mountains and rivers to remain forever beautiful, and for everyone living here to enjoy modern life while still protecting the natural world we share."

By the time he reached the mountain's summit, his bag was heavy — but his heart felt light.

"This National Day, I traded sweat for a sense of fulfillment," Barnet wrote. "Perhaps this is the most sincere birthday gift a German like me can offer to China."

Barnet's simple yet powerful gesture has resonated widely online, drawing praise from netizens across China. Many commenters in the discussion threads shared that they had also taken similar actions, picking up trash during hikes or making small efforts to protect the environment in their daily lives. 

Barnet's simple yet powerful gesture has resonated with many Chinese netizens, who praised his sense of responsibility and affection for his adopted home. 

As China continues to pursue both economic progress and ecological harmony, Barnet's act stands as a heartfelt example of how individual efforts, no matter how modest, can contribute to a cleaner, more beautiful homeland for all.