Shining For One Thing Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
> Shining For One Thing Recap
In the midst of the first snowfall, Lin Beixing watched Zhang Wansen wave goodbye to her. She silently resolved that even if life was long and they might not meet again, she would find a new life, bravely forget his name, and never let him down. Embracing her new resolve, Lin Beixing began her day.
Dressed smartly for work, she greeted her parents and confidently declared that she would take over preparing breakfast, assuring them she knew what they liked and where to buy it. Her mother playfully expressed doubt, but Lin Beixing affirmed her commitment before heading out. At work, the Curator praised Lin Beixing for her outstanding performance in the animal rescue team, highlighting her efforts in rescuing stray animals across the city and the positive community response.
He announced that her dedication represented Nanchuan Zoo's image and encouraged everyone to learn from her. The Curator then informed Lin Beixing that Liu Ga, the vice principal of Nanchuan High School, had invited her back as an outstanding graduate to speak at the senior class graduation ceremony, emphasizing that she would represent both the school and the zoo. Lin Beixing accepted the honor.
Later, while browsing an art exhibition, Lin Beixing paused before a painting of a vast prairie, wistfully thinking how wonderful it would be if Zhang Wansen were still with her to see it. Nearby, she observed Zhan Yu and Tengteng squabbling over photos. Tengteng criticized Zhan Yu's photography, calling the pictures "so ugly" and beyond editing, while Zhan Yu retorted that they were at an art exhibition, not a photo shoot.
Tengteng accused him of being impatient with her after such a short marriage and walked away, followed by Zhan Yu. Lin Beixing watched their bickering with a faint smile, a sign that she was finally able to let go of her own past burdens. Yang Chaoyang approached Gao Ge at her exhibition, attempting a cool demeanor, but Gao Ge instantly recognized him.
She playfully taunted him, recalling his past naughtiness and her father's frequent scolding, and admitting she kept up with his daily gossip. Yang Chaoyang, intrigued, invited her to his cross-talk show at Nanxiaoku Theater. Gao Ge declined, explaining that she was scheduled to speak at Nanchuan High School's graduation ceremony the next day as an outstanding graduate. Yang Chaoyang then suggested dinner, which Gao Ge accepted, insisting it would be her treat.
Upon her arrival at Nanchuan High School, Lin Beixing was greeted by Gao Guangming, who also welcomed Gao Ge. Gao Guangming, a former disciplinarian known as "Bright Summit," playfully ribbed Lin Beixing about her past misdeeds and their "even" standing now that he was retired and she was grown.
Gao Ge affectionately chided her father for his lingering "grudges," but Gao Guangming proudly declared that all his students had turned out well, citing former student Li Mingtian's recent wedding speech as proof that he was far from ready for retirement. Gao Ge gently reminded him to prioritize his health. When it was Lin Beixing's turn to speak at the graduation ceremony, she introduced herself as an employee of Nanchuan Zoo and a member of the animal rescue team.
She urged the graduating students to cherish their present moments, explaining that no matter what life held for them, the seemingly huge worries of youth would eventually pale in comparison to the future's gains. She recounted a teacher's childhood joy in a village by a reed field, a joy that never returned in adulthood.
She then shared a memory of her own "summer," a dream that seemed endless, filled with arguments and troubles that now seemed insignificant compared to the growth and connections she gained. She recalled a group of friends who cared for her deeply, and Zhang Wansen's encouraging words: "Don't be afraid of anything. What will tomorrow be like? What will the future be like? We'll get the answer soon. If you can't go to Beijing this time, never mind.
I will study with you for another year. Wherever you are, I'll be there for you. You can definitely make it." Lin Beixing concluded by asserting that while others might inspire dreams and futures, ultimately, unknown challenges and fears could only be conquered by oneself. She declared that by bravely overcoming these obstacles, she could proudly tell the person who cared about her the most that she had succeeded and grown up.
Later, on the winter solstice, the Curator announced a significant opportunity: the animal protection association and foreign rescue organizations were jointly holding an assessment. Those who passed would become Veterinarians Without Borders, joining international rescue efforts to protect endangered animals worldwide. He emphasized the rigorous requirements, including theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and English proficiency, promising the zoo's full support to any qualified applicant. Lin Beixing listened intently, a new determination shining in her eyes.
Fueled by Zhang Wansen's dream, Lin Beixing diligently prepared for the Veterinarian Without Borders assessment. She dedicated her commute time on the bus to reviewing study materials, in addition to her daily duties of rescuing animals. One evening, Lin Beixing heard a news report announcing the city's first snowfall of the winter, due to begin that night. She wistfully mused aloud, "It's going to snow again in Nanchuan. It would be nice if you were here."
Moments later, she received an excited call from the Curator, who told her to get off the bus and return to the zoo immediately. He revealed that she was the only person from the entire rescue team to pass the interview and would now represent Nanchuan Zoo globally in wildlife protection. Lin Beixing, elated, agreed to return at once. As she stepped off the bus at the next stop, Lin Beixing happily looked at a map in her hand.
The date overlay read "2022," marking the New Year. She gazed up at the falling snow, a deep sense of longing overwhelming her as she whispered, "Zhang Wansen, it's snowing. How are you doing? I miss you. I miss you so much." As she waited at a crosswalk, a black umbrella suddenly appeared over her head, held by someone standing behind her, shielding her from the flakes. Lin Beixing's eyes filled with tears, a mix of surprise, anticipation, and profound emotion.
