Nestled where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers embrace mountains, my hometown Chongqing is a city of breathtaking contrasts. Known as the "Mountain City," its skyscrapers cascade down slopes like a vertical forest, connected by dizzying overpasses and the iconic monorail weaving through buildings. Mist often veils its hills, earning it the romantic name "Fog Capital." But Chongqing's soul lies in its fiery spirit: the málà (numbing-spicy) hotpot that gathers families and friends around bubbling broth, the lively dialect echoing in ancient hutong alleys, and the resilience of its people-once China's wartime capital, now a powerhouse driving the West's rise.
Chongqing mirrors China's journey. It blends tradition with relentless modernity: ancient Buddhist carvings at Dazu coexist with neon-lit Hongya Cave; centuries-old teahouses stand beside Al-powered factories. As a vital hub of the Belt and Road, Chongqing pulses with global energy, yet preserves its unique identity—a testament to China's ability to evolve while honoring its roots.
Zooming out, China itself is a civilization of profound depth and dynamic change. With over 5,000 years of continuous history, it gifted the world papermaking, printing, the compass, and Confucian philosophy emphasizing harmony. From the Great Wall's serpentine majesty to the poetic grace of Suzhou gardens, China's landscapes whisper ancient tales.
Today, China strides confidently into the future. It champions technological innovation-leading in renewables, Al, and high-speed rail-while actively shaping global cooperation on climate and development. Yet its true strength lies in its cultural diversity: 56 ethnic groups enrich its tapestry, dialects color its voice, and regional cuisines-from Cantonese dim sum to Xinjiang's lamb skewers-tell stories on a plate.
As a Chongqing native and Chinese citizen, I see my homeland as a bridge. It connects past wisdom with future aspirations, local traditions with global dialogue. China's revival isn't just about growth; it's about contributing responsibly to humanity's shared future— upholding harmony (hé), fostering sustainability, and ensuring that progress lifts all civilizations. Chongqing, with its rivers carving through mountains, teaches me: perseverance and openness can turn barriers into pathways. This is the China I cherish v rooted, rising, and ready to weave its thread into the grand tapestry of human progress.（李佳怡）
