Lighting dreams of people across the world

The Olympic flame has already touched the lives of thousands, literally - as people from all walks of life who passed strict selections to become proud torchbearers will attest.

Through a global campaign via TV, cell phones and the Internet, Olympic worldwide torch relay sponsors Coca-Cola, Samsung and Lenovo announced their lists of 4,221 torchbearers last week.

Since June, millions throughout the country have participated in the selection - sharing their extraordinary achievement and touching tales, nominating local heroes or voting for their favorites.