China - A country in transition

The olympics have had a substantial and positive impact on China.  The media has been so quick to run stories that contribute to the negative views of China - specifically related to human rights, pollution, and communism, but it is obvious that China is exposing its students to a new type of international culture through the idea of Olympism.  The Olympics have brought a pride to China and its obvious why this event is considered by many Chinese to be the greatest event in their history.  When I began this blog, my view towards China was fairly western.  I was skeptical about communism, frustrated with human rights violations, and unsure about their Olympic motives.  As I've read and watched the games, its become increasingly clear to me that China is moving in a positive direction.  China won't be the US or Britain, but they are leading a path that will unite China with the world.  Their willingness to take on the games and organize them with such pride, shows that China truly wants to an international team player.  Their educational initiatives show a fresh look into communist culture, as it looks to increase international exposure among its students through the Heart-to-Heart program.  China is uniting the world in an anti-western way, which takes time to appreciate.  And although my hesitations are still existent, I'm confident that China is moving in a direction that will benefit its citizens as individuals.