A three-minute silence gripped a whole nation today at 2.28pm - a week to the minute after the earthquake struck. Here in China it is translated literally as "silence for the sorrow". 

The people are silent, but those in cars, ships or operating alarms release these sounds across the country, bringing everyone to grieve, in harmony, together. 

It was one of the most touching moments of my life - hearing the horns and sirens way in the distance, and our own of course on site at the bear sanctuary in Chengdu. 

May the victims rest in peace, may their families and survivors find comfort and solace soon and may we work together to build back new and proud.