[May 16, 2008] All survivors cry

Hu Tao's work diary •Afternoon, May 12, 2008 •Evening, May 12, 2008 •May 13, 2008 ?Morning, May 14, 2008 •Afternoon, May 14, 2008 •May 15, 2008 ?May 16, 2008 •May 17, 2008 ?May 18, 2008 ?Postscript

At 9:00 AM, Secretary Wang called on all survivors from the town government bodies to hold a meeting.

Almost four days have passed. All the survivors (30 plus) feel exhausted. Most of us are city dwellers, but we have to remain here because of the town's situation. No one is allowed to return to the city.

Secretary Wang walked using a crutch. I've never seen him cry before but today he talked and he cried. I listened to him and wrote notes with tears in my eyes as well.

He said, "Everyone has parents and everyone has a family. We've all been under almost martial law these days and we've all been under severe physical exertion. In the face of disaster, we haven't retreated. I am proud of you all; I also pray for the safety of all of your family members. I bow to you all!"

Everyone applauded. Men and women were all crying. Even though we all felt tired everyone retained good spirits.

At 10:00 AM, tasks were allocated to our leaders after the meeting.

Decision: Supplies have arrived here. Although materials are not as scarce as several days ago, we still have to conserve them. Food has to be distributed to villagers as soon as possible. The financial office is required to keep accounts and record all supplies and expenditures. Each allotment requires a traceable route.

In the afternoon, a group of unkempt people arrived – survivors escaping from Yingxiu. Hearing this, Secretary Wang immediately arranged some food and drink for them.