China has been tested by constant calamities since the beginning of this year. The disaster that struck on Monday seems to be toughest test to date.

But these disasters also bring countless extraordinary acts of heroism and good will which provide valuable lessons for the future.

The China Daily carries a commentary saying that the quake shook the ground but not the Chinese spirit. Instead, it has brought out the best in Chinese people. Lessons learned during these challenging times should not be forgotten when life returns to normal.

The commentary notes that adversity brings out the best in people. This is something that is almost universally marveled at.

But it points out perhaps the greater curiosity is why it takes extraordinary events to teach us such important lessons.

It seems that when it's just "business as usual", most of us are less likely to act on behalf of others.

The commentary calls on people to remember what has been learned from the heroism and compassion shown during the recent calamity, even when the current disaster becomes old news.