China Voice: The Chinese Dream -- the aspiration of all Chinese

While delivering a speech in Seattle, U.S., President Xi Jinping explained the origins of the "Chinese Dream".

The Chinese Dream, championed by Xi in late 2012, is to build a moderately prosperous society and realize national rejuvenation.

In his speech, Xi recalled his own experience of being a farmer in a small village in northwest China's Shaanxi Province in the 1960s.

At that time, villagers lived in earth caves and often went without meat in their diet for months. But now, he said, they are "living in houses with bricks and tiles. They have Internet access, medical coverage, schools. And, of course, meat is readily available."

The progression of that small village is a microcosm of the progress China has made through reform and opening-up since 1978. Over the past three decades, more than 600 million Chinese have been lifted out of poverty.

Xi's story vividly displayed the essence of the Chinese Dream, which is about making life better for the Chinese people.

"The Chinese Dream is, after all, a dream of the people. We can only fulfill the Chinese Dream when we link it with our people's yearning for a better life," Xi said.

The president's remarks not only struck a chord with people at home but also gave the world insight into what drives the Chinese people.

Despite multiple invasions, social unrest and the agony of wars in modern times, the Chinese have never given up on their dreams. Only people who had endured misfortune and frustrations can have such strong faith in seeking national rejuvenation and a better life.

The Chinese Dream can be understood by anyone who dreams of something more, from farmers in China to American factory workers.

While people's dreams may vary, "all roads lead to Rome," Xi said.

Regardless of the different contents and themes of our dreams, they are a source of inspiration and can create exciting opportunities for China and the United States, as well as other countries, to cooperate. Endi