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Yao a mighty model worker
http://www.sina.com.cn 2005/04/25 18:53  Shanghai Daily

  Yao Ming's nomination as a candidate for the National Model Worker award last week has triggered a heated debate. A good number of people believe the young athlete should not be eligible for the country's highest honor.

  The most often cited reasons are his wealth, celebrity and, for the most part, his residence in the United States.

  This argument implies two things. First, rich people do not qualify for the award; second, Chinese who do not work in China should also be disqualified.

  Both have much to do with the nature of the respectable title of model worker.

  I believe a model worker is a person who reflects the most esteemed values a society holds at a certain stage. In other words, the nature of a model worker evolves as time changes.

  The nationwide selection of model workers began in 1950, a time when endurance of hardship and a sense of sacrifice was highly valued.

  Manual laborers such as toilet cleaners, coal miners and construction workers were typical images of model workers in that era.

  In the late 1970s, respect for intellectuals and knowledge was advocated. Many of the model workers during this period were scientists, engineers and education professionals.

  Later the country focused on economic development. Entrepreneurs and managers with insight and courage were selected as model workers across the country.

  It's clear that today's model workers do not have to be laborers in the traditional sense. Those who work in air-conditioned rooms and drive BMWs can be models, too, as long as they bring positive influence to society and people look up to them. They are, to be more exact, role models.

  Yao is a perfect example. He works extremely hard, is honest, down-to-earth, and most importantly, loyal to his home country. He is the first Chinese basketball player who has won his country both fame as well as commercial profit.

  He is loved and respected by millions of basketball fans around the globe. Children listen to what he says. He also answers the call of the country at the risk of harming his career in the National Basketball Association.

  He has earned fame and fortune. So what? He deserves it. He uses his image to raise funds for severe acute respiratory syndrome research and AIDS-awareness campaigns. Half of his pre-tax income goes to the country's coffers. What more can you ask of him?

  There are also people who believe Yao does not qualify as a candidate because his outstanding achievements rely heavily on inborn advantages as well as hard work.

  This is ridiculous.

  According to this logic, any one blessed with innate talent automatically loses eligibility. In Yao's case, his exceptional physical talent thus becomes a "blemish." If this argument is extended, people with unusually high IQs should also be disqualified from model worker consideration.

  You want to be a model worker? Make sure you are not 226 centimeters tall or have an IQ above 200.

  Let's see if Yao wins a National Model Worker award on Saturday. But regardless of the result, he will remain a role model for millions of Chinese and even Americans.


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