One day after the sentimental farewell party, Beijing has woken up to a "post-Olympic" reality. Besides economic benefits, the Olympics has brought about global recognition for both China and other countries.

A commentary in China's English newspaper China Daily says that this Olympiad is not just about record-breaking. During the past 16 days, people's hearts have been touched by tear-jerking stories. This was especially evident with the Chinese spectators' applause for the Iraqi delegation at the opening ceremony, as well as the 50,000 US dollars Usain Bolt donated to young victims of the Wenchuan earthquake.

The paper concludes by stating that the Olympics brings the world to Beijing and Beijing to the world. The Chinese government has promised that all the positive improvements will stay, and the world has proved it can treat China with the respect it deserves. The curtain is rising.