There was a lot to cheer about when Li Xinyu of Mian Zhong Experimental School in Mianyang, Sichuan province, registered a high score of 625 at this year's college entrance examination, or gaokao, 96 points more than the minimum score required to enter key universities in the country. Particularly happy for her was Zhu Jiaqing, an elderly resident from Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, who has been sponsoring her studies since 2008.

Li was only seven years old when she lost her right hand during 2008's magnitude-8 earthquake in Wenchuan, Sichuan province. However, despite the accident, she was not one to give up, learning to write with her left hand while still in hospital.

Moved by her story in the media, Zhu decided to sponsor her studies. After hearing of her exceptional gaokao score, Zhu has promised to continue supporting her.

Li's and Zhu's examples have moved many on social networking sites. What Li has achieved is the fruit of her perseverance and hard work and Zhu's trust in her.

One can well imagine the difficulties she must have encountered in the past 12 years. Her determination, optimism and strong will to learn helped her overcome the obstacles. Not to forget, Zhu's kindness and support helped Li overcome financial difficulties while also encouraging her to pursue her dreams.

Their story reminds people to not lose confidence and kindness no matter what problem life throws at them.

This year has made people witness many unexpected situations, such as the novel coronavirus outbreak and the most terrible floods in decades, seriously impacting and drastically changing their lives. A society is called a harmonious one when people facing difficulties strive harder while others are willing to offer a hand without hesitation to help them overcome their problems, just as Li and Zhu have done.