The Disappearing "Sanhe Gods"

Have you ever witnessed the most decadent life? In 2015, a unique group emerged, answering this question. They ate cheap noodles, lived in budget internet cafes, and worked daily jobs. After getting paid, they would rest as long as they could. Their lives seemed stagnant, devoid of any vitality or hope. They were known as the "Sanhe Gods." These individuals lingered on the fringes of Shenzhen's bustling society, evoking feelings of pity, sorrow, and even resentment.

The term "Sanhe" originated from a jest by a netizen in 2015. It's neither a person's name nor a place but refers to a nearby human resources company. The term "God" is not used in reverence but rather to mockingly admire their complete disregard for societal views. Over the years, the term has evolved to represent those who live aimlessly.

However, a recent visit to "Sanhe" revealed a drastic change. The once chaotic environment was replaced by cleanliness. The original "Gods" were nowhere to be seen. This raised the question: Where did they go? Have they turned their lives around?

In 1979, a dream was born in a coastal region, transforming a small fishing village into a world-renowned metropolis overnight. Many young dreamers flocked to this city, hoping for success. The original "Sanhe Gods" were among them. Everyone has dreams, but few can realize them. The high cost of living in big cities doesn't guarantee high income, a fact well-understood by the "Gods."

Over time, the term "Sanhe Gods" became synonymous with aimless living. By 2019, due to various reasons, their online presence dwindled. In 2020, media visits found only a few remaining "Gods." By 2021, they had almost entirely disappeared, replaced by cleaner streets and establishments.

Yet, recent sightings near Longhua Park in Shenzhen revealed the "Sanhe Gods" once again, gathering in a place called the "Death Corridor." Their eyes still lacked luster.

In essence, the "Sanhe Gods" represent low-educated migrant workers. While some manage to turn their lives around, like Mao Tuhao, who transitioned from a manual laborer to a skilled technician, many remain trapped in their circumstances.

Life is full of challenges. While external factors play a role, personal effort is paramount. If one doesn't strive, no amount of societal support will suffice. The story of the "Sanhe Gods" will continue, with new "Gods" replacing the old. Life is cyclical.

How we spend our lives is our choice. Whether we choose to be complacent like the "Sanhe Gods" or strive for change like Mao Tuhao, the decision is ours. May we all find our path and achieve our heart's desires.

This was no longer the realm that Xie Yong once knew intimately. At the age of 36, Xie Yong had intermittently called this place home for over a decade. Before the complete transformation of Jing Le New Village in 2020, he had departed, relocating to another urban village a few kilometers away that had yet to undergo renovation. Occasionally, he would pass by his old haunt, but never once did the thought of wandering its streets cross his mind. To him, it felt like stepping into an entirely different world. The ubiquitous daily-rental motels and myriad internet cafes that once dotted the landscape had vanished. Some had metamorphosed into long-term rental apartments, while others had been reborn as reading rooms. Yet, Xie Yong remained unchanged. His short-sleeved shirts and tees seemed to bear the grime of many unwashed days. With the sweltering heat of Shenzhen, a slight wrinkle of the nose from those nearby would betray the sour scent emanating from him. His hair, now grown long, clung to his neck in sticky strands, somewhat irksome. His unkempt appearance often birthed a sense of embarrassment within him, causing him to cast fleeting glances before hastening away.