Yes, this kind of gesture is quite common in Chinese culture and can be seen as a normal courtesy. In Chinese culture, offering gifts or providing hospitality to guests is deeply ingrained as a way of showing respect, care, and friendship. This is often referred to as "客气" (kèqi), which translates to "politeness" or "courtesy."
There are a few reasons why your daughter's Chinese high school friend's mother might be giving her a bag of basic groceries:
Hospitality: In Chinese culture, being a gracious host and providing for guests' needs is highly valued. Offering basic groceries may be the mother's way of ensuring your daughter feels comfortable and welcome during her visit.
Caring for Guests: Chinese people often express their care for others by providing practical help and support. By giving your daughter groceries, the friend's mother may be trying to help out and show her concern for your daughter's well-being.
Friendship and Gratitude: Gift-giving is also a way to strengthen relationships and show gratitude. The friend's mother may view your daughter as part of their extended family, and the gesture is a sign of appreciation for their friendship.
Cultural Norms: In some cases, it might be part of the local custom or tradition in their specific region or community to offer gifts to guests.
It's essential to understand that this act of giving groceries is not a reflection of your family's financial status. Instead, it's a cultural expression of hospitality and warmth. If you find it uncomfortable, you could discuss it with your daughter and explain that while you appreciate the gesture, you want her to feel comfortable accepting such gifts if she feels it's not necessary. Encourage her to express her gratitude for their kindness in other ways, such as reciprocating with gifts from your family or through other means of showing appreciation.