When the tide of imperialism recedes, as it has throughout the Middle East and Africa, some of the exposed debris is the remnants of the invading countries' cultural values and administrative systems that linger malodorously.

Hong Kong is no exception.

As Westerners we share many British values that are not indigenous to Chinese culture. Many HKers no are now imbued with these values and will continue to have difficulty living a life during the 'reunification'. Nothing, certainly not people, is ever truly unified.

Mainland China is changing rapidly and benefiting from Hong Kong's unique status. HKers cannot forestall the tide. Their resistance is futile, albeit occasionally admirable and instructive to Beijing.