"Being content and happy with each day is enough"

My name is Deng Rungen, and I was born in 1949. I don't have any children.

After my parents passed away, I came to Nanchang to work with my uncle. My home is located right next to Jewellery Street. I live in the old town, so my room is in pretty bad shape. In the corner of my house, there are some moldy leftovers and three big jute bags full of plastic bottles that I've collected for recycling. I usually spend my days basking in the sun with my little dog, Xiao Huang. I also enjoy setting up a small stall on Jewellery Street to sell vegetables when I'm short on money. I find this job quite relaxing, as I can chat with the other vendors every day. However, being chased away by the urban management officers from time to time is actually part of my life. I don't really have a choice, because I don't have any money or a diploma, so I can't find any other job.

I've been interviewed by more than one journalist, and I patiently share my past with them. I don't think my current life is particularly happy, but I don't hate it either. I don't pursue good food, nice clothes, or anything else. Selling vegetables could even be considered my hobby. All I want is to live a simple and peaceful life.

- Deng Rungen

Nanchang, China

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