In a solemn ceremony yesterday, national flags flew at half-mast to mark a national day of mourning, as people all over the country mourned those who lost their lives in the deadly landslide in Quzhou, Northwest China's Gansu province on August 8. By coming together in silent tribute to the more than 1,200 lives lost in the disaster, the ceremony sends a message to those who have lost their loved ones, and those left homeless, that their compatriots support them in their time of need.

This national day of mourning followed the one on April 21 this year for those who lost their lives in the Yushu earthquake in Qinghai province, and the one from May 19 to 21 in 2008 for those who died in the Wenchuan earthquake that claimed more than 80,000 lives in Sichuan province.

By sharing the grief of those who have lost their loved ones, the national ceremony has brought home the principle that the value of human life is treasured in this country.

Paying tribute to the dead on the seventh day after their death is a tradition that can be traced back to the roots of Chinese civilization. Not only does it cherish the memory of those who died, it also inspires the living to do a better job of fulfilling the meaning of life.

To the victims of the landslide, this special occasion carries another important message: That people all over the country will extend a helping hand to support them by offering whatever aid they need to rebuild the lives and reconstruct their county.

Last but not the least, another message from the national day of mourning is that it is not just the landslide victims but people nationwide that have confidence in their government and State which will be behind them whatever misfortune happens to them.