I sat and watched last night, all 4.5 hours, the opening ceremonies of the 29th Summer Olympiad known as the Beijing Olympic Games. I normally would never sit and watch one TV show or event for an hour, let alone 4.5. It was a fabulous show. However, what really affected me was the special place that I have in my heart for the Chinese people, and the obvious pride that they must be feeling at this moment. I longed to be there, sharing this moment with them.
No one can live with or know the Chinese people and not be profoundly affected. I lived for 3 years in Taiwan and love this people like my own. My second family lives in Beijing and Taiwan now. They are a wonderful people who have a unique history and past. We must cherish them, yet know and understand them.
Bonnie and I had planned to be in Beijing next month. Then, a heart operation for me has changed our plans. I had given up on going to Beijing to see our friends there, but now want so much to go there and spend some time amongst these wonderful Chinese. I feel the pull of Beijing, and the pull of the Orient. I hope we can figure out how to go there.