Beijing Olympics

Post written by Li, a United Planet team member.

There is only one day left before the opening ceremonies of the 2008 Olympic Games, which will be held in Beijing, China. Millions of Chinese people have been anxiously awaiting and preparing for this worldwide event. I still remember the day in 2001 when Juan Antonio Samaranch, the president of the International Olympic Committee, announced that Beijing had won the bid to host the games. It was truly an amazing feeling for me as a Chinese woman who worked in Beijing! The Chinese view the opportunity to host the Olympics not only as a form of economic development and national pride, but also as a potential forum for multinational diplomacy.

This year China has suffered many difficult times, including the recent Chengdu earthquake. With all these hardships, many Chinese began to doubt that the Olympics were really going to take place in Beijing after all. However, when my friends and family in Beijing told me how many things China has been doing in order to remain the host of the Olympic Games my optimism was restored. My friends from college who are involved in the tourism and hospitality industry have told me that they are welcoming their busiest season ever with great excitement after months of strenuous preparation.

As a citizen of China, I would like to say that “Beijing Welcomes YOU” regardless of whether or not you know anything about the Olympics or China. I know my entire country hopes that everyone from around the world can enjoy the “Great Games” with us. This is the first time I feel as though a sporting event is so very important for my country. It is a great privilege for me to be personally connected with such an amazing event.

I wish all the athletes from the around the world the best of luck!!

Volunteer Abroad with United Planet!