Because we are warm
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The popular TV show China's Got Talent reaffirms the simple truth that with determination nothing is impossible. A young boy who has lost his arms plays the piano with his feet; an unsuccessful businessman re-launches himself as a singer; a husband dances for his sick wife. The show gives ordinary people the chance to fulfill their dreams on stage.
The show does not follow the usual talent show formula of searching for a star. It is about the hopes of ordinary people. The performances may not be 'professional,' but their dreams are part of the "Chinese dream". These are people who have faced many challenges and burdens but have never given up hope or fallen back on complaining about their fate. Instead, they have worked hard to change their lives and create a better tomorrow for themselves. Their stories are simple and honest, and full of hope. They are an example to us all on how to face challenges and live your dreams. They show that our society is on the up, not declining as the grumblers claim.
Watching these ordinary people, we see that the dream that has inspired our people to advance for thirty years has not run out of steam. We see the sincerity and optimism of ordinary Chinese as they fight for their dreams. And it is not only the younger generation, but also the "silent majority," that has been captivated by the show. China does not only have "celebrities" with their bizarre words and strange behavior; it also has talented ordinary people who stick by their dreams. In the words of Liu Wei, the armless pianist, "If even I can reach my dream, why can't the other kids?"
Are we listening?
Yes, we are. Be yourself and improve yourself is the core of "Chinese dream". We have our celebrities and our talents and the warm glow of the "Chinese dream".
I read a review of China's Got Talent, entitled The world is cold, but we are warm. I like the title very much, but I would change it slightly to say - because we are warm, the world will not grow cold.
The author is a professor of Chinese and Deputy Director of the Center for Cultural Resources at Peking University.
