During the past Spring Festival, I was involved in a family dispute.By the time I got home, we had added four CCTV satellite channels to the 14 we already had.During prime time in the evening, they all have interesting performances.So the five of us -- my parents, my sisters and I -- had to argue about what to watch.Finally, we agreed that we should watch "the funniest"...If we
We can agree on what that is.
But all of us there remember that for a long time after the TV was on, only one or two channels were available.The increase in options reveals an important change in our lives: the richness of choice.
Fifteen years ago, we all wore one style and one color.Today, we choose from a wide variety of designs and shades.
Fifteen years ago, we seldom read newspapers.Today, we read English newspapers such as China Daily and 21st century, as well as various Chinese newspapers.
Fifteen years ago, English majors took only language and literature courses.Today, we also study western culture, journalism, business communication, international relations and computer science.
The emergence of choice marks the beginning of a new era in Chinese history.An era of diversity, material and cultural abundance, and the rebirth of the Chinese nation.
We enjoy a wealth of choices.But it won't be easy.
About 150 years ago, China was opened by western cannons and gunboats.After generations of struggle and sacrifice, we finally have the chance to choose for ourselves.The reform and opening policy is the choice that changes everything.
Like everyone else my age, I am too young to experience a time when Chinese people have no choice.But as the next century approaches, it is time to ask: what does choice really mean for us young people?
Is the choice a game of chance or luck?Is choice an empty promise that will never be fulfilled?Or is the choice so difficult that we must avoid it?
First of all, I want to say: choose the means to get the opportunity.
I'm a junior majoring in English.An important choice for me, of course, is what to do after graduation.I can go to graduate schools at home and abroad.I can be a teacher, a translator, a journalist, an editor and a diplomat.In fact, the mutual selection system gives me access to almost every career opportunity in China.
