(chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2008-01-23 11:22

Born in Hunan Province, Li Li had polio as a child and was not able to stand or walk properly. Even more unfortunate was that at the age of 40, she was seriously injured in a traffic accident, confining her to a wheelchair for the rest of her life.

However, this strong-minded woman never yielded to what seemed like an unfair fate. She is always trying to do something for her community.

She found many children were addicted to computer games and did not like to study. She established a studio called “Li Li’s home education” which helped students concentrate on their schoolwork. She also founded a website to answer some teenagers’ psychological problems.

In addition, she held more than 100 hours of mental health lectures in schools, companies, prisons and communities for free.

One day last December, Li went to Hunan Women’s Prison to give a speech. She encourages the criminals to reform themselves actively. “I am held in captivity by my body but you are imprisoned by your own psychological problems,” she said. “Everyone has a good future only if she learns from the past and is confident to move forward.”

Zou Xiaoling, a young woman who was convicted for taking part in the drug trade, was deeply moved by Li’s difficult experience and optimistic spirit. “I didn’t expect to hear such a strong-minded woman,” said Zou, “We should all learn from her example. I am determined to cheer myself up.”

“I am so lucky to find the best way to show my values,” said Li. “I thank society and people because they helped me a lot, and they let me know the world is full of things worth cherishing.”