Find Out What Keeps Pilaxy Rasmussen's Family Happy In Beijing

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Our expat community thrives on connection, and here at jingkids, we’re all about our readers, and what they need and want in order to maximize their time here in Beijing. Every week, we feature a prominent member of our expat community and get to know them a little bit better.

Pilaxy Mariyathas Rasmussen was born in Sri Lanka along with five siblings, but her family immigrated to Norway due to the civil war when she was in elementary school. As a result, Pilaxy grew up with two different cultures and faced the difficulties of living in different locations, having to learn a new culture and language at 7. Pilaxy came to Beijing in 2018, where she lives with her husband and three children. She currently serves on the jingkids Parent Board.

What’s on your mind?

I always have a lot going on and don’t like to waste my time. I prefer to have many balls in the air, and my goal is to never have one day without doing something fun for my family and my soul. This helps me keep a positive mindset, specifically in times like this, when travel restrictions prevent me from seeing my family in Norway and Sri Lanka. Not being able to travel has been challenging. I’m sure we all can relate to missing our family and friends. I tell myself to treat every day as a gift; take it and use it. Do something with it. Happiness does not come by itself but is the greatest treasure in life.

What motivates you to get moving every day?

My father passed away from cancer some years ago.That taught me to be more motivated and grateful for every day I get.I love spending time with my family and friends here in Beijing. They make me happy every day. Sitting around our dinner table and listening to my kids sharing their stories are precious moments! Finding good friends who care for each other just like family is a true blessing.

What keeps you sane in all the madness?

The joys of my family, and because of Covid, we have become closer than ever. We are stronger together and more open-minded. Things can change anytime, but keeping the family together has been my priority the last two years. We’re trying to think out of the box; what can we do to keep ourselves happy and safe? What is most important in life? We talk about how we are feeling.

I have often asked myself why I’m still staying here in Beijing. No one “forces” me to be here. We can leave Beijing anytime, so what is making me stay longer?

To that, I will say harmony around my family and all my friends here in Beijing is what keeps us going. We all have ups and downs, but my motto is never to stop pursuing your dreams because things are difficult. Always push yourself out of your comfort zone, and you will make it happen!I tell my kids all the time never to give up. Ask them to challenge themself and ask WHY? If you never ask why you never get an answer either. Enjoy life today, don’t wait for tomorrow to come.

What is your favorite thing about Beijing?

The beautiful scenery of the different Great Wall places. Good local Chinese food. I love Hutongs; it’s such a peaceful place to walk around. And, of course, the culture and all the great people here in Beijing!

Nominate a friend's or your own family to be featured in our #Monday Motivation series and share with us your positive thoughts on expat life in Beijing!

Images: Pilaxy Rasmussen

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