Beijing 2008, ready to compete

The XXIX Summer Olympic Games are every bit the extravagant coming-out party envisioned by the Chinese when they competed so intensely in 2001 to land the event.

Here is an almost heretical thought in the curious atmosphere surrounding this attention-grabbing athletic event: Best wishes to the nervous hosts for a successful, memorable Olympic festival. May all those lucky number eights so conspicuously part of the kickoff date bring good luck indeed.

As today's opening events unfold in the capital of a country with 1.3 billion people, the rest of the world ought to have the grace to celebrate the achievement.

China's obsession with appearances and sensitivity about its emergent status as an international power make it a culturally ripe target for political pokes and jabs. China's leaders rise to every provocation, which makes them all the more delightful to bait and taunt.

China is far from perfect, as many are eager to point out. This international stage attracts publicity seekers who are bent on promoting their causes and drawing attention to China's failings, flaws and weaknesses.

So much is a work in progress in China, but all sanctimonious finger-wagging by outsiders only has credibility if it acknowledges the country's demonstrated capacity to change, grow and prosper.

China's evolution from a dirt-poor nation with a starving population to a regional political powerhouse and global economic force is amazing. A hardworking nation is enjoying a level of prosperity unimaginable two generations ago.

One can easily imagine that lots of heads of state are not only impressed by the transition, but more than a little intimidated. Moral authority might be the last bastion of the outhustled. China is open for business and ready to compete. Deal with it.

Inexpensive goods from China have propped up the U.S. economy as our manufacturing capacity and purchasing power have eroded. The Chinese use the proceeds to buy American bonds and help the White House and Congress finance epic budget deficits.

Change in China has come from the inside, and there is more ahead. Environmental awareness comes with the prosperity to clean polluted rivers and clear fetid air. China's progress does more than create a nation of consumers. The rewards associated with hard work and education nurture expectations about continued improvements and a better, freer life.

Enjoy the Olympic Games. Marvel at the extraordinary venues created to honor athletic excellence and entertain the world. Celebrate the work of the athletes and the achievements of the hosts.