Children as the hope of the future, and this is often felt most keenly during times of tragedy. The smiling faces of some of the youngest survivors have moved thousands of people.

12 year-old Huang Siyu is drawing in hospital. When the doctors had to amputate her left leg, she cried and shouted: don't, please. I want to look after my parents when I grow up. Please.

When the doctors had to amputate her left leg, she cried and shouted: don't, please. I want to look after my parents when I grow up. Please.

But the earthquake took not just one of her legs, but also her mother and father. Siyu is being brave and facing the reality, and says she will be a strong girl.

In the Mianyang Jiuzhou Stadium, this little boy gives the victory sign. His optimistic spirit is inspiring 1000 other orphans in the stadium.

11-year-old Li Yue was pulled from the debris after buried for more than 70 hours. But her left leg had to be amputated. She's been learning ballet since last year. Teachers and schoolmates are confident she'll carry on. And Li Yue herself says she'll never give up her dream of becoming a ballet dancer.

From top leaders to people in the street, from sweaty rescuers to survivors trying to hold on, the entire Chinese nation is praying for miracles.

(CCTV May 20, 2008)