How time flies. Seven years have elapsed since Beijing won its bid for the 2008 Olympic Games. As the time nears for the opening ceremony, we can not help but recollect the moment on July 13, 2001, when the International Olympic Committee made that historic decision which brought the entire Chinese nation great joy and excitement.
In the ensuing seven years, China has been making relentless efforts to fulfill its promise regardless of wind or rain. The Chinese nation unites and works as one in a bid to materialize its solemn pledge to the international community-- to turn out a high-level sports gala with Chinese characteristics.
"To spectators, the seven years seems a long stretch of time. For organizers and workers; however, the time allotted to prepare for such a grand event appears too short," said one senior employee in involved in the preparations. His words also reflect the thoughts of the Games' organizers when they are devoting their time to the arduous work.
The successful bid is not only the fulfillment of a century-old dream to a nation rich in historical traditions, but more a time-honored promise China has long been seeking.
Centering on a "Green Olympics, High-tech Olympics, and People's Olympics" ---the three Olympic themes, China has set the timer for a series of formidable tasks: constructing sports venues; improving the environment; promoting clean air projects and a non-smoking Olympics; enhancing national security; streamlining transportation; and pushing forward Olympic protocols and public awareness of the Games.
"A promise is worth a thousand ounces of gold," as an old Chinese saying goes, which represents the Chinese people's high regard for keeping a promise. Even in the face of human disruption and natural disaster, the Chinese people have never wavered in their confidence in hosting a successful Olympics. Instead, they have made history by integrating the great humanitarian spirit seen in their painstaking relief work after the massive Sichuan earthquake with the Olympic spirit: faster, higher and stronger. Given the unflinching courage when facing difficulty and relentless preparation for the Games, China has been recognized for its dedication to its mission and the sincerity with which it engages in the international community.
China is growing and will be rewarded with time. Seven years ago, when the International Olympic Committee selected Beijing as the host city for the 2008 Olympic Games, it was convinced that "holding the Olympics in a country with 1/5 of the world's population will be a great event." Beijing will definitely live up to international expectations by producing a splendid event and bestowing a unique legacy on the sports world.
By People's Daily Online
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