Colorful years

That morning, the biting wind was like a sharp knife, mercilessly cutting into people's exposed skin, making them feel a bone-chilling cold.

Despite the clear, cloudless sky and the sun's efforts to penetrate the cold air and shine upon the earth, its meager warmth was utterly insufficient to dispel the pervasive chill.

Despite the frigid weather, Zhang Cong and his apprentice Man Guoliang sat side by side as they boarded a bus bound for Hangguping. The atmosphere inside the bus was quite different from that outside; the two chatted happily and laughed constantly.

For Zhang Cong, this trip to Hangguping was a completely new experience, as it would be his first time venturing into this relatively remote area on business.

In order to better complete the mission and gain a deeper understanding of the local situation, Zhang Cong had already spent a lot of time and energy collecting information and studying travel guides before setting off.

Through these preliminary preparations, he gained a preliminary but relatively comprehensive understanding of the overall situation and unique local customs of Yuanguping District.

Yuanguping District is located in the southeastern corner of Dayong County, a place of beautiful mountains and clear waters. It is considered one of the three most important core areas of Dayong County, along with Xinqiao and Jiaoziya.

Each region has its own distinct characteristics and advantages, complementing and reinforcing each other, together forming the rich and diverse regional features and cultural landscape of Dayong County.

This district comprises six communes, covering a vast area with a remarkably large territory. Not only is the land expansive, but the population is also enormous, reaching a total of 9 – a truly impressive scale!

The rural atmosphere in this region is very simple and honest, and the people are warm, hospitable, and cheerful. The local residents not only maintain traditional virtues but also possess an open and inclusive mind and a romantic and affectionate nature.

It is particularly worth mentioning that education and cultural heritage are highly valued here, with every household upholding the philosophy of valuing reading and learning. It is precisely because of this that Yuanguping has produced many talented individuals who have distinguished themselves and shone brightly in various fields.

People from Yuanguping can be seen everywhere in county-level departments. These staff members, who hail from Yuanguping, shine in their respective positions with their talents and hard work.

What's even more astonishing is that one-third of the leadership positions in county-level units are held by people from Yuanguping. Their outstanding abilities and excellent leadership skills have earned them widespread recognition and respect.

Therefore, people working in the county town have almost reached a tacit understanding: no matter what, they must not easily offend the people of Yuanguping.

Because provoking them could bring unexpected trouble or even serious consequences. After all, the unity and influence of the Yuanguping people should not be underestimated.

The rural road resembles a winding, coiling python, twisting and turning endlessly.

The road is not only full of curves, but also steep and rugged, making it daunting to look at.

The dilapidated bus, like a drunken madwoman, swayed and bumped along, struggling to make its way on the gravel road.

Each time the wheels rubbed against the ground, they made a "squeaking" sound. As the vehicle moved forward, it raised a long trail of dust wherever it went, like a yellow whirlwind raging in the air.

Thus, the short journey of just over forty kilometers took the bus nearly three hours to finally slowly pull into Yuanguping Bus Station.

The passengers eagerly disembarked, their dusty and disheveled appearances quite amusing. Each person's hair looked as if it had been coated with a thick layer of white frost; their once jet-black and glossy hair was now completely stained grayish-white by the dust accumulated during their journey.

The district office is located at the foot of a picturesque green mountain, where the scenery is beautiful and pleasant.

It is a typical courtyard house nestled against the mountains and beside the water, surrounded by lush trees and colorful flowers, giving people a sense of tranquility and peace.

Although the courtyard is somewhat quiet, its location is extremely advantageous and easily accessible. It's only a few minutes' walk from here to the bustling market, the busy supply and marketing cooperative, the lively train station, and the middle school filled with the sound of students reading aloud.

Just then, Li, the sharp-eyed secretary at the district office, spotted Zhang Zhong and his apprentice walking towards the courtyard. He quickly put down his work, strode out of his office, and greeted them warmly, asking if their journey had been smooth and extending a heartfelt welcome.

Typically, an ordinary district office would carefully arrange six to seven spacious, bright, comfortable, and cozy guest rooms. These guest rooms were not set up randomly; their existence was of great significance—they were specifically for entertaining officials who had traveled from afar from the county.

Speaking of Yuanguping, it's truly an extraordinary place! It has always been renowned for its warm hospitality and simple, honest folk customs. Moreover, its various undertakings have been carried out with remarkable success.

For this reason, both county leaders and cadres from county departments are full of anticipation and affection for business trips and research work in this area.

Given the popularity of the Yuanguping area, the district office has prepared an ample number of guest rooms! This fully demonstrates their respect and thoughtful consideration for visiting guests.

Just now, after successfully coordinating with the district party secretary, the district head, and the meticulous secretary Xiao Li regarding the arrangements for the training course, it's already time to enjoy a delicious lunch.