From the Readers

Be humble and keep improving

(chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2010-05-28 13:54

Comment on “Understand stark realities” (China Daily May 28)

The Chinese people have every reason to feel optimistic about their future, but should maintain some pragmatic perspective on how much work will be necessary to continue improvements. The rush to celebrate some successes should not be allowed to become too much of a distraction from the work or the gains already made will be lost.

National pride should have a deeper foundation than 20 years of economic growth. I am often worried when I see comments in which people express a kind of hubris that is both unwarranted and counterproductive. Cultural heritage and community advancement warrant pride, while, let's be honest, anybody can get rich if the circumstances are right. Maintaining a balance of humility and optimism is not easy, but necessary.

5940 on China Daily website.