原创 Once-in-a-lifetime Olympic dream became reality

The Olympic rings are raised during the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games in Beijing. China's once-in-a-lifetime Olympic dream became reality as the Beijing Games opened with a dazzling ceremony showcasing the nation's ancient civilization and an offer of friendship to the world.

A general view of the Opening Ceremony for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics at the National Stadium on August 8, 2008 in Beijing, China

Music played an integral part of the festivities.

Artists performed on a large globe, signifying the unifying power of the Olympics.

China's national hero and flagbearer Yao Ming was accompanied by nine-year-old earthquake survivor Lin Hao.

A Chinese man washes the dishes while watching the opening ceremony of the 29th Olympic games at home on August 8, 2008 in Beijing, China.Ten thousand athletes have gathered in China for the Olympic games along with hundreds of thousands of fans and 30,000 journalists. China says that there are 100,000 security forces in place to secure that the games are safe. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images

A Chinese soldier kept a watchful eye outside National Stadium.

The Olympic flame was lit to much fanfare.

Fireworks exploded over one of China's most famous landmarks: the Forbidden City.

Chinese soldiers stood ready to quell any protests