Dressed in black and sitting in the corner of the room, Tai Lihua strikes an inconspicuous pose.

The one thing that would draw people's attention to the 22-year-old is the intent of her gaze, at the gestures of the sign-language interpreter beside her.

For some, the very idea of a deaf person attending a CPPCC group discussion seems incredible, but for Tai, one of the country's most acclaimed dancers, it was just another opportunity for the voice of her heart to be heard.

"I've come here representing not only myself, but also all of the disabled," the delicate dancer said.

Deaf at the age of two as a result of medicine misuse, Tai overcame seemingly insurmountable hurdles in life to become a luminous presence on stage.

Her story never fails to move and to inspire. In fact, Tai had just returned from Miami two days ago, where a documentary film about her and her fellow members at the China Disabled People's Performing Art Troupe received a standing ovation from the audience.

"The applause speaks for itself. The movie has touched a certain spot in people's hearts, a place where we harbor hope, longing and love," she said.

Indeed, Tai's road to success has been paved by love from parents and teachers, friends and fans. Now a celebrity, she feels she can never do enough to repay others for what she has.

She dedicated herself to helping the disabled because she understands their pain and shares their dreams.

"I see my life as imperfect perfection. And I would like all my disabled friends to see their life this way," Tai said.

"We are different, but everyone is intended to be different. You may be deaf, but you can touch the rhythm of music. You may be deaf, but you can feel the warmth of color."

That is why the movie was made - to spread the word to those who may not be able to see Tai dance, but who desperately need to hear the message.

Tai also considers herself as someone who is constantly moved by those around her.

"At the group dinner, I was talking to a delegate, a kind old man. I didn't realize he was disabled until he showed me his prosthetic leg," Tai said.

"He said he lost the real one in an explosion. But the way he mentioned it, very casually, it stayed with me."

(China Daily March 5, 2008)