Lei Yun Dong: Tribute to the Builders

There are certain people in this world, certain industries, and a group outside the mainstream of bustling cities who silently contribute to society. They have modest incomes, only the backs of those struggling against adversity. Their lives are filled with countless farewells and much sorrow. When a project begins construction, they pack their bags, join hands with time, and throw themselves into the construction site. They are the most ordinary yet indispensable group in society—the builders.

I want to praise the builders. I've searched through thick dictionaries, but I haven't found any ornate verses. I want to say a few words of concern, but I don't know what words can feel warm. I want to sing about this group of people who have poured sweat into the construction of our motherland, but I don't know what notes can sing about their dedication day and night, because only they know their own hardships and fatigue.

The roar of the winch on the construction site, the rhythmic sound of the pole-erecting masters' interlocking lifting chains under the scorching sun, and the whistle of the on-site crane operator—these are actually a pleasant and moving youthful concerto.

Construction sites in the Pu'er region are hot and humid year-round. The heat waves in the air try to bake the people here, and the humid environment attempts to fester the mosquito bites on their bodies. Unprecedented thunderstorms seem to want to scare the people here. However, even in such an environment, a group of builders from all over China still stand tall. They are simple and honest, each possessing superb skills. They make their home wherever they go, yet they are all so calm and composed. With their dark, calloused hands, they adorn the world. They are far from home and family, burning themselves to illuminate others. For the sake of the nation's construction, they stay in the depths of mountains, on high deserts, and on the edges of cities. Every project site is far from the bustling city. They write magnificent poems with their blood and sweat. They dedicate their youth to those who seek light and warmth, bringing light to those in darkness and warmth to those in the cold. They are the laborers we should admire.

Builders living abroad can only pour out their true feelings to their families at night through the internet, phone, and WeChat, sharing their thoughts and reporting their safety. They let their families' happy laughter reflect on the screen, keeping their longing and concern deep in their hearts. In front of the video, parents scramble for the camera, wanting to see their children abroad more. Wives always have endless things to say. After the husband's apologetic words, the virtuous wife always says, "If two hearts are together, why should we be together every day?" This simple line of poetry reveals the vast heart of a builder's wife. When the daughter's blessings come through the phone, the builder always smiles honestly. In their hearts, there is always an inextinguishable lamp, the source of strength that supports them to keep moving forward—their family.

In three months, I grew together with the Jingning Expressway External Power Project Department, witnessing the rapid development and brilliant achievements of our province's expressway industry. I also felt the benefits of this career.

Our construction team has such employees, such brothers, and such a team. What difficulties can we not overcome? In the future, the road of construction may be even more bumpy and muddy, but our Er'an children have the ability to overcome and the perseverance to create the future. Because the construction spirit of our predecessors inspires us to forge ahead.

【Ten Construction Department/Lei Yun Dong Editor/Hu Hengjin】