This year Christmas was a celebration unlike any other, filled with warmth, tradition, and an unexpected act of kindness. Though Christmas is not a traditional holiday in Vietnam, its spirit of giving and joy has been embraced by many, making the season truly special.
The story all began on Christmas Eve in Ho Chi Minh City, District 12. The streets were alive with twinkling lights, bustling markets, and cheerful music. My friend’s family and I had just finished decorating a small Christmas tree, a modern twist to our Vietnamese traditions. Then, we decided to visit Tan Hung Cathedral for the midnight ceremony. The cathedral was beautifully illuminated, and the atmosphere was serene, with hundreds of people gathered to celebrate the holiday.
On our way back home, we passed by a small street vendor, an elderly woman selling roasted chestnuts. Despite the festive surroundings, she looked weary and alone. Something about her reminded me of my grandmother, and I could not help but stop. My friend, sensing my thoughts, suggested we invite her to join us for a late dinner.
At first, the woman was hesitant, but after some gentle persuasion, she agreed. Back at our home, we shared a simple meal of sticky rice cake and a few Western treats we had prepared for Christmas. She told us stories of her youth, her family, who now lived far away, and how she had spent many Christmas Eves working to make a living.
Before she left, we handed her a small gift, a warm scarf, and some sweets. Her eyes filled with gratitude, and she smiled as she wished us a Merry Christmas. It was not the decorations or the bustling streets that made this Christmas unforgettable. It, visibly, was the joy of sharing warmth and kindness with someone who needed it most.
Nguyen Tan Tai