The Red Flames of the Olympic Torch

Commentators, authors and the media alike have all said that this year's Olympics games for China represent a historical shift in terms of what it means to be Chinese in today's globalized world. It will give the republic a chance to remake themselves in their own image and they plan to do just that.

This event was in the making for many years. I spent some time in China in 2004. While there, I had the chance to witness the world through different eyes. A world that had recently celebrated its Olympic finish during the summer games in Sydney. I remember all the replays on television and snapshots of the Chinese Olympians at work. To many Chinese, the athletes represent heroes, restoring grace and honor to the homeland. China truly was a proud country, but even prouder when they were selected to host the 2008 games.

My experience in Shanghai formed the basis of my book, State of Existence, which is still in publication. Back then, I did not fully comprehend the reasons for why the Olympics were so important. In these four years since, I have learned to understand just what the games should mean to me and what this means to the rest of the world.

For some, these few weeks may just be games; dreams fulfilled while others deferred. But for the China and its people, this is their chance to rewrite history the way they see fit and to no longer feel the need to be humiliated or ashamed for their past. This is their awakening and they want the entire world to know.

Should America and the rest of the Western world be afraid? Absolutely not. The West should embrace China and all of its accomplishments past, present and future. The People's Republic of China, formed in 1949 has a storied history of abuse and national shame. To the Communist country, the 2008 games in Beijing represent the culmination of over half a century's worth of work and development. While these are just the beginning of the games, I am sure that tensions will rise if they have not already. A lot is riding on these events, from countries all around the world, including the United States.

For the last 6 years, America has seemed to be on a downward slope. The Olympics can represent our past glory and dominance. Many wonder can America dominate the games as it has continued to do so? These are many questions that this year's game will answer.

While I am not a big fan of the games per say, I know history when I see it. I congratulate China, let the games begin.

Chairman Mao would be proud.

Learn more about this author, Charles Sumpter.
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