Recalling his mother, Zheng said, "My mother is more like a blank space in my memory. But as I heard her story from people around me, and flipped through her photos over and over again, the blank space got filled up, clear and vivid."

During high school, Zheng focused on rigorous physical training as well as his studies to qualify as a police academy candidate. His efforts paid off. In late July, he received an admission letter from Yunnan Police College.

For Zheng, becoming a police officer represents not only continuing his mother's aspirations but also his own dream.

"I will follow in my mother's steps, and strive to be an outstanding police officer and complete her unfinished work," Zheng said.