For the past two weeks, the collective eyes of the world have been fixated on the mysterious city of Beijing. I, too, have been enamored with this year’s Olympic games, both for the majesty of the athletes and the complexity and wonder found within the country of China. The pageantry of the Opening Ceremonies combined with the effectiveness of the games, has presented the world with a new way of seeing the Chinese people, or more accurately has enabled the world to see behind the curtain which has shrouded them for so long.

Of course, there has been much written about the lessons that China needs to learn, particularly in regard to political openness and human rights. Many were upset that President Bush did not boycott the Olympics, or even that we sent our athletes to compete. I understand these stances, although I’m sad to say that due to recent history, the United States finds itself in a precarious position in lecturing any other country about human rights. Certainly, the Chinese must amend their way of treating dissidents in order to be fully accepted by the world community, but are there things that we can learn from China? I would briefly suggest two such items: citizen involvement and civility in public discourse.

Some estimates say that China had one million volunteers who helped make the Olympics possible. These were individuals who had pride in their country and wanted to make the event successful. In fact, I was surprised to learn that the Chinese National Anthem is entitled “March of the Volunteers.” This type of citizen involvement seems to be embedded in their culture, despite a limited ability to voice opinions or participate in any political process. While Americans certainly have a strong history of volunteerism, we would do well to learn from these Chinese people who choose to volunteer, even though their voice is limited. I’m afraid that our sense of a collective, national vision has been lost, leaving most of us dispassionate about the state of the union and our ability to affect positive change.

Secondly, the Chinese seem to have a standard of civility in their interactions with others that is frankly lacking in much American discourse. Again, this can certainly be influenced by an oppressive government, but I think this goes deeper. The Asian concept of “Face” may come into play here. All the reports were of a Chinese people who were polite and accepting, respecting the other even if they disagree strongly.

Now, our eyes turn to Denver, Colorado where the advanced, American political system will be put on display. Will this system demonstrate the hope and civility that we saw from the east the last two weeks? Or will we hear empty rhetoric and cheap one liners about those on the other side. I, for one, hope that we will be presented with a passionate vision for our nation, not a barrage of insults against the Republicans (however deserving they may be). Perhaps we can learn this from the Chinese. And perhaps, if we learn to be civil, more of the rest of us will want to volunteer and get involved in making our country better.

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