Despite the fact that we may be secretly brimming with excitement at the prospect of the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022, some of us might be hard pressed to outwardly show our enthusiasm, what with years’ long news stories and complaints about massive crowds, road closures, and seemingly endless construction seeping into our collective consciousness. But whether you’re dusting off your old skis eager to hit the slopes, or stocking up on survival food so you can hunker down through the duration of the festivities, the one thing we can all take comfort in is an adorable mascot greeting us from every shop window in town.
And what better harbinger of all the fanfare and splendor to come, then the newly unveiled, and dare we say absolutely charming, Bing Dwen Dwen.
While “Bing” literally means ice, it’s also a symbol of purity and strength, with “Dwen Dwen” representing children. What’s more, the design of the mascot speaks to China’s 21st century commitments on the global stage. For instance, the heart in Bing Dwen Dwen’s left palm is a symbol of China’s hospitality, the bright colors around its face speak to “connectivity and advanced technologies,” and its astronaut like body is indicative of a “future with infinite possibilities.”
“The launch of the mascot today will generate even more interest for these Games, especially among young people,” said Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, at the mascot unveiling ceremony in Beijing. “The mascot incorporates the best elements and characteristics of China and the Chinese people. What I can say already is that it will be a wonderful ambassador for China and the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022.”
Also unveiled at the ceremony was the Paralympic mascot, Shuey Rhon Rhon, a delightful little “lantern child ready to welcome friends from around the world.” Shuey Rhon Rhon’s name and design personifies warmth, friendship, courage, and perseverance, all of which are values at the heart of the Paralympic Games.
“Everywhere you go, you can feel the excitement and the anticipation that the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022 are generating already,” said Bach. “This demonstrates that the legacy of the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022, spreading the joy and benefits of sport to all Chinese people, is already taking place.”
So while you may be quick to lament the inconvenience caused by the Games and the lead-up to them, try to take the whole experience in stride and remember what the event is about. Ultimately, it’s something that’s larger than all of us. It speaks to international cooperation, teamwork, friendly rivalries, and always striving to be our best while lifting up those around us.
Photos: International Olympic Committee, Kyodo News
