Censorship rights

It is very strange to be sitting in another country, where the world has much to say against, other than Israel. All day today, it was near impossible to get into the internet carriers, as
at times of conflict or world opinion against them, China closes down the networks. At first
you think there is something wrong with your computer, then something has gone awry with
your TV, but at last it dawns on you, you are under censorship.

This morning, in the local english newspaper, was an article about the horrifying scenes that took
place at the outbreak of riots in Lhasa. The Tibetan community is stunned by the outbreak of violence and the budhist monk leaders, condemn the happenings. It tells how vandals and rioters ran through the streets, brandishing iron rods, wooden sticks and knives. They didn't
care if they attacked women or children, but were violent in their purpose. School children were
sent home and all ran for cover.

According to the story, that most are shocked was allowed to run in the press without censorship, tells of how people of the ethnic Han, were chased and clubbed, as the rioters set fire to property and looted. To the credit of the Tibetans, these simple people, who have lived in
Tibet for a number of years, originally from Chinese far flung out provinces, consider Tibet their
home and were save by the natives of Tibet. Not only did the peace loving people save their
ethnic neighbors, they also dared to stand up against the mob, in an effort to protect them.

They themselves are confused by the situation, for they too feel that this is not the way to bring about any resolution to the differences and political stances between Tibet and China, but has only thrown them into a difficult plight, as the government feels that the Budhist supporters of the Dalei Lama, instigated this attack.

The motto for the Olympics is 'One world, one dream', surely there must be thought behind this
exposure of themselves on behalf of the Chinese government? There greatest concern this morning was the fact that there would be boycotts arising from this incident. A day does not go by that I do not see some kind of preparation on the streets for the coming games.

On Friday it was a group of retired me and women, dancing with fans and drums on a quiet street; today it was a group of young teenagers learning how to control traffic to stop at the crossings; in the paper a few days ago it showed how a large group of spectators are being taught the 'wave' for major events. Almost on every telephone you see a 'Beijinger' hanging out for all
to see a 'Fuwa', one of the 5 mascots in minature form, the main favorites being the children that look like a Panda or Tibetan Antelope.

Advertisement not to buy the fake mascots, hold safety risk, for these copies are not approved by the safety codes of China and hold risk for small children. People are encouraged to buy goods from authentic dealers and a promise to keep memorabilia available for every pocket, has been
advertised, as the shops have become flooded with more expensive goods.

10 -15% of the revenue from the mascots in particular, pays back the country for the gross outlay of expenditure on the games, so this too is a plea for national assistance. The prices of these goods will not go down, before 2009. No expense has been spared, it would be a shame
if these games will not go through peacefully.

We all have strong opinions about human rights and the way China handles its affairs, but if
we wish to help and be part of the change, then surely we should encourage them to be in the
spotlight and under scrutiny and not talk of boycotts and disturbance. For it seems only logical, that after they show a shining performance and ability, that will take them out of the pre-conceived thoughts about them as being 'behind the times', this in itself will force them to play their hand and make the much needed improvements for continued alliance and sponsorship from the west.

All looks different when you are sitting on the other side and involved with the people/citizens
on a daily basis; then one hears their thoughts, pain, hopes and dreasms.