Stimulate patriotic enthusiasm and play the strong voice of life (commentator’s observation)

Editor’s Note: Whether at the Olympics or the Paralympics, the venues may differ, but the passion remains unwavering. The immense courage, competitive spirit, and tireless dedication displayed by athletes during competitions are truly inspiring. Individuals with disabilities, as integral members of society, embody the strength of life and pursue their dreams through hard work, both on and off the field.

In the women’s C1-3 3000m individual pursuit, Wang Xiaomei shattered the world record twice and claimed the championship title. Meanwhile, Yang Yue secured gold in the women’s F64 discus final with an impressive throw of 42.39 meters, adding a gold medal to her collection of four silver medals from previous Paralympic Games. At the Paris Paralympic Games, Chinese athletes achieved extraordinary results, bringing home 94 gold medals, 76 silver medals, and 50 bronze medals. In a congratulatory message to the 17th Paralympic Games Chinese Sports Delegation, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council emphasized the athletes’ fierce spirit, recognizing their contributions not only in competition but also in nurturing a sense of community and national pride.

Whether on the grand stage of the Olympics or the inspiring platform of the Paralympics, the dedication to national pride is evident. At the award ceremony for China’s first gold medal, cyclist Li Zhangyu, despite facing speech difficulties, was determined to sing the national anthem. Swimmer Guo Jincheng expressed, “I want to bring glory to our disabled friends,” after competing in eight events. Taekwondo athlete Li Yujie passionately declared that her gold medal “is not just for me; it’s a testament to the unity of the Chinese taekwondo team.” Such expressions of patriotism inspire these athletes to exceed their limits, resulting in the uplifting of the five-star red flag and kindling a profound sense of national pride among millions of Chinese people.

While competitions are often marked by wins and losses, medals aren’t the sole measure of success. The incredible courage and perseverance exhibited by athletes, along with their relentless efforts and long-term commitments, resonate deeply with us. For instance, visually impaired athlete Di Dongdong broke a decade-old world record in the T11 long jump final—a feat that showcases his ability to overcome the challenges of blindness through hours of intense daily training. Qian Wangwei, who won silver in the women’s C1-3 500m time trial in cycling, faced balance issues and endured falls during training, even losing a tooth, yet she persisted and improved through these challenges. Sports encompass more than just victories or defeats; every athlete deserves to be celebrated. Each breakthrough and historical achievement is a tangible expression of what we often refer to as “miracles.”

President Xi Jinping emphasizes, “Disabled individuals can lead fulfilling lives just as those who are able-bodied can.” The field of disabled sports exemplifies the spirit and character that combines confidence with strength, rich in compassion and hope. For individuals with disabilities, the significance of sports transcends competition and accolades; it is critical for improving physical health, rehabilitating mind and body, and fostering societal engagement for holistic development. Xiong Guiyan, the oldest member of the Chinese delegation who won silver in the mixed doubles table tennis event, radiated joy during the interview, saying, “Table tennis is an indispensable part of my life. It not only strengthens my body but also helps me face life with more confidence.” Wen Xiaoyan, who nabbed gold in the women’s 200m T37, hopes to inspire more individuals with disabilities to step forward and join society, stating, “If you give it your all, everyone has the potential to shine.” As equal members of society, people with disabilities can profoundly connect with life’s joys and achieve their dreams through perseverance.

The Paris Paralympic Games showcase the vibrant growth of disabled sports in China, offering a glimpse into the “steady happiness” of 85 million individuals with disabilities. Ensuring that they live well, work comfortably, and enjoy fulfilling lives is a fundamental expression of our party’s commitment to serving the people and a testament to our socialist system. The third plenary session of the 20th Party Congress proposed, “Improving the social security system and care service system for individuals with disabilities.” As we move forward, maintaining a people-centered approach to reform is essential to securing equal rights for individuals with disabilities, enhancing their quality of life, empowering their self-development, and cultivating a society filled with understanding, respect, care, and support for individuals with disabilities. This will ultimately drive the high-quality development of programs for individuals with disabilities and fulfill their aspirations for a better life, ensuring that the benefits of modernization are shared equitably by all.