Tectonic change – Szechuan earthquake

Szechuan Earthquake May 12, 2008 Szechuan Province, China What I Don’t Know and What I Know

I didn’t know there was a small town named Wenchuan before the earthquake.

But I do know the beautiful town, close to Wolong, home to giant pandas, was flattened by a magnitude 7.9 earthquake.

I don’t know how much you know about this disaster. But I know you would be deeply shocked.

I don’t know how many towns were destroyed. But I know many people lost their home.

I don’t know what this house looked like before. But I know the old man is not able to rebuild his home by himself.

I don’t know how many schools collapsed. But I know at that time many classrooms were full of students.

I don’t know how the school bag got here. But I know it belonged to a child.

I don’t know whether this mother will ever see her child alive . But I know a child is the treasure of every family.

I don’t know whose body is under the cover. But I know this woman has been crying here for a long time.

I don’t know how many people are still under the ruins. But I know most of them may not survive.

I don’t know whether the hands belong to a girl or a boy. But I know the hands are eager to reach her or his parents again.

I don’t know what time it is now. But I know it is a horrible time.

I don’t know why they embraced so tightly. But I know they are comforting each other.

I don’t know what the man is looking for. But I know he has little chance of finding it.

I don’t know why they are crying But I know the tears are from the heart.

I don’t know whether the child can survive or not. But I know many others like her are still waiting for help.

I don’t know how long the student has been under the ruins. But I know he is among the few lucky ones in this disaster.

I don’t know what the nurse mean by this sign But I know it doesn’t mean “victory”.

I don’t know which country the foreigner comes from. But I know everyone is doing their best to help the victims.

I don’t know whether the drivers have escaped or not. But I know the road was completely blocked.

I don’t know where they are heading to. But I know they are leaving home.

I don’t know whether they could have slept or not. But I know they don’t have any other choices right now.

I don’t know how many people are here. But I know the lack of water and food could cause big trouble.

I don’t know how this old man escaped from the collapse. But I know he is eager to help those who did not.

I don’t know where they are. But I know it is not their home.

I don’t know what their destination is But I know at this time only they can help themselves.

I don’t know where the parents of the babies are. But I know the babies are safe and well taken care of.

I don’t know what the girl is looking at. But I know her eyes are full of desire to live on and live well.

I don’t know what is on their mind. But I know they see hope in the future.

69,197 dead 374,176 injured 18,238 missing As of end of July 2008