Chapter 80: Cleaning Pollution

Arriving at the restaurant, Bi Qiao’an and her colleagues realized even a simple meal was hard to come by these days.

Ordinary people faced strict purchase limits in supermarkets. Restaurants could only remain open with the Qinghe Alliance’s approval, each assigned a fixed monthly quota for essentials like grain, oil, and vegetables. Meager portions and limited menus were the result.

So why not close the restaurants altogether? Qinghua was too accustomed to this lifestyle for an abrupt shutdown, like stepping back into the 1950s and 60s. Change needed to be gradual. Besides, while difficult, the situation remained manageable for now.

Bi Qiao’an and the others squeezed in just before lunch service ended, their large group filling two large round tables with a burst of noise.

“The way things are going, restaurants won’t last long either,” Shi Leyong said, sitting down, his tone and expression grave.

“Don’t be so negative. There are limits on supplies, but they can still operate,” Wei Qin countered, ever the diplomat, her words carefully chosen.

“True, we could still eat out when there’s nothing left at home,” Yu Shui agreed, his forced optimism clear. “I just worry about how long our cafeteria will hold out.”

Bi Qiao’an shared her thoughts, “My guess is water shortages will shut down restaurants first. Grain might hold out, but fresh vegetables will get scarce quickly.”

Chen Qing piped up, “You’re right! I hardly eat fresh vegetables these days. Every time I buy some, I eat a bit and dry the rest for winter.” Genuine worry colored his voice.

“These sunny days are perfect for airing out those dried vegetables,” Bi Qiao’an said. “The earlier rain was heavy. I bet they’re damp no matter how well you stored them.” She scanned the group, her eyes conveying a friendly nudge of reminder.

Amid the chatter and laughter, Shi Leyong asked, “Have your relatives gone back home yet?”

“Just sent my in-laws back yesterday. My hometown’s okay, the disaster wasn’t too bad there. Once the water recedes, things should be fine. It’s just the smell I can’t stand,” Wei Qin replied, wrinkling her nose.

Chen Qing sighed, his shoulders slumping. “Sister Qin, at least that’s off your shoulders. My mess at home… it’s driving me crazy.”

Curious, everyone turned to him. “Went back with my family after the rain stopped. Found the houses destroyed,” he said, his voice low and pained. “Silt, rocks, garbage everywhere, even dead rats. We took one look and turned right back around. No way to live there.”

Chen Qing continued, “And now, everyone’s crowded at my place, all depending on me to feed them.”

“Didn’t they sign up as laborers?” someone asked, surprise coloring their tone.

“They did, but now they’re all notified to clean up pollution. Nobody wants that, so they’re dragging their feet at home,” Chen Qing grumbled, his expression sour. “Still dreaming of some cushy, high-paying job nearby, I bet,” he added with a scoff.

Bi Qiao’an pursed her lips. “Honestly, the treatment for laborers is pretty good. A contract with the Qinghe Alliance is practically a secure job.”

Unlike the others, Bi Qiao’an knew that although the labor workers’ jobs seemed the dirtiest and most tiring now, anyone who endured the initial trials would have real opportunity. They could join the Qinghe Guard reserve or the logistics department—guaranteeing food, shelter, and a secure future.

In her previous life, Bi Qiao’an, limited by her gender and because she had money, hadn’t bothered with the labor recruitment. Later, money became worthless, and jobs were scarce. Those once-scorned laborers? They were prized for the survival supplies they earned.

Even more, female laborers got preferential tasks within the logistics department. When Bi Qiao’an found out in her past life, she regretted it deeply.

She couldn’t say all this outright, of course. Her reminder was simply out of goodwill towards her colleagues. Whether they listened was up to fate; she could only give them a nudge.

Sure enough, after Bi Qiao’an’s remark, everyone moved on, clearly uninterested.

“Can’t manage them anymore. I’m bringing in a renovation crew to fix up the old house. Once it’s done, they’re all going back. How they manage from there is their problem,” Chen Qing said, shaking his head dismissively.

Shi Leyong chimed in, his tone understanding, “Honestly, it’s understandable they don’t want the manual labor. Everyone’s used to office jobs these days. Plus, they’ve got those university degrees—hard to swallow the switch to physical work.”

“Bet those skinny arms would be aching before anything even gets done!” He grinned, and the group shared a laugh.

“Yeah, those sanitation workers near my home work from morning until night. Seriously tough work, and the garbage they handle… it’s crawling with bugs, it’s gross!” Wei Qin grimaced, covering her nose as if reliving the sight.

“It’s only been two days, but I saw on Weibo that some workers have already blistered their fingers. Some couldn’t take it and quit. Anyone still working has serious willpower,” Yu Shui said, giving a thumbs up, a hint of admiration in his voice.

“True, and this is just the beginning. The work will only get harder. We’re lucky to have a secure job,” Wei Qin added thoughtfully.

Seeing no one was watching, Bi Qiao’an gave a subtle nod. This was a key reason she and Shen Yanming chose their current jobs after rebirth.

In her past life, the unrelenting disasters had devastated Qinghua’s employment. Yet, people still needed to survive. The country offered no free handouts; the nation firmly believed in earning one’s keep.

Through trial and error, the Qinghe Alliance developed many job types to provide livelihoods for the people. Naturally, these jobs ranged from easy to grueling.

Bi Qiao’an couldn’t guarantee the Alliance would follow the same path this time. But, armed with her knowledge of the future, she was determined to secure the easiest, safest work possible for herself.

Yes, Bi Qiao’an’s early rebirth had landed her a secure, coveted job. Compare that to Zhang Chenjun, reborn too late to seize her chance.

“Nini, why would a young lady like you sign up for this kind of labor? Our family has a company and supplies. What need is there for you to suffer like this? Please, just don’t go,” Father Zhang pleaded.

Zhang Chenjun stood in her yellow work uniform, sweat beading on her forehead, her face flushed from the sun. She fanned herself with her hat, a determined air about her despite the grueling work. This was her third day clearing silt, and 

Father Zhang couldn’t believe his pampered princess was choosing such a difficult path. The sight broke his heart.

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Translator’s Notes:

Even if it’s fiction, I often reflect on the moral lessons it had. In this chapter I wanted to share a bit of it.

The unseen heroes of our communities, laborers and sanitation workers, are the backbone of a healthy and functioning society. Their tireless efforts keep our streets, parks, and public spaces clean and free from waste, preventing the spread of disease and ensuring a high quality of life for all. Often facing physically demanding and sometimes unpleasant tasks, these dedicated individuals play a crucial role in the smooth operation of our cities and towns. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their vital contribution to our well-being.

In the grand tapestry of society, each individual is an essential thread, weaving their unique contributions into the fabric of our collective existence. While it is true that every working adult plays a vital role in the functioning of our society, it is crucial to recognize that some people, due to circumstance or necessity, may have limited choices when it comes to their occupation. Laborers and sanitation workers, in particular, often find themselves in roles that are overlooked or underappreciated, despite the immense value they bring to our communities.

When we encounter these hardworking individuals, a simple act of kindness and respect can go a long way in acknowledging their worth. It is disheartening to witness instances where people treat laborers and sanitation workers with disdain or condescension, failing to recognize the dignity and humanity in every person, regardless of their profession.

We all face our own struggles and challenges, and there may be days when the weight of our emotions threatens to overwhelm us. In such moments, it is important to take a step back, find a quiet space, and focus on the simple act of breathing. Close your eyes, inhale deeply, and exhale slowly, allowing the tension in your chest to dissipate and your mind to find clarity.

Let us be advocates for respect and love in all our interactions, recognizing the inherent value in every person we meet. By treating others with compassion and understanding, we contribute to a society built on empathy and kindness.

May peace be with you all, and may today bring you joy and fulfillment, no matter what challenges you may face.

☣☣☣

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