There’s always time to criticize and complain. Americans know how to do that well and I’m an American. However, there is also a time to leave a tender moment alone, and Beijing tonight gave us such a moment.
It was beautiful, and I was moved when the flame was extinguished at the National Stadium. I felt joy and relief for my hosts. The Chinese people have realized their Olympic dream, and I love a happy ending.
So many people worked so hard to make these games successful. So many common people doing uncommon things. It’s the little people that make the world go around, and it was all of those people that worked together to give the world the best games ever! Between the guards and soldiers and uniformed police and military police and secret police, there were common people making it work. Making that simple gesture that makes a stranger a friend.
The world got a chance to see the warmth and hospitality of the Chinese people. They are a remarkable people if you give them a small chance. Trust them. Give them an inch and they will give you a mile. Or maybe just the most spectacular Summer Games ever.
so great that you like China so much!
Anyone could see the grandeur, beauty and spectacle of these games.