The speaker mentions that the recent heavy rainfall in Shanghai is the largest since 1981, causing significant issues such as leaks in their office building. The rain and wind were so intense that even the property management couldn't address the leaks immediately.
The speaker finds it extremely unethical and disrespectful to discuss and spread rumors about deceased individuals, such as Qiao Renliang, who passed away a decade ago. They argue that such behavior is not only intrusive but also lacks empathy and respect for the deceased and their families.
The speaker reminisces about their childhood experiences with heavy rain in Shanghai, particularly at their grandmother's house, where they would run out into the rain, getting completely soaked. They describe this as a liberating and enjoyable experience, which they later associated with the concept of 'finding oneself'.
The speaker notes significant changes in Shanghai's urban landscape, from the old residential buildings and cobblestone streets to modern commercial complexes. They express nostalgia for the old neighborhoods and the unique character of streets like Yandang Road, which had a mix of bustling and quiet areas.
The speaker fondly recalls the traditional family-run eateries in Shanghai, where meals were served in people's homes, often with a homely and informal setting. They express a sense of loss as these eateries have largely disappeared, replaced by more commercialized establishments.
The speaker recounts an incident during a Clubhouse session where a Taiwanese host, Eddie, displayed a biased and condescending attitude towards mainland Chinese participants. Despite attempts to correct or undermine statements about being Chinese, the host's behavior was met with resistance and disapproval from the participants, including the speaker.