Most of the Christmas cards that I receive are digital ones. But one of the few real ones came from… a branch of the Shanghai government. Interestingly, it also contains a ‘friendly’ reminder of the obligations that employers of foreigners and foreigners themselves have. Big Brother is watching you? Or did everybody get a card like this?

I almost threw away the envelope when I realized there was a number on the back. I read the text, and guess what? It’s a lottery number! In a country where gambling is not allowed and lotteries are very strictly regulated I can now participate in a free lottery for foreigners. Too bad it does not state what I can win. Maybe a free one-year extension of my work permit?