As dawn broke over Tan Son Nhat International Airport, a familiar yet long-missed figure emerged from the crowd. My little brother, now an independent young man, waved at me, dragging two suitcases behind him. It had been over a year since we last met, and the boy who once relied heavily on my guidance in London now stood confidently before me. His transformation filled me with pride.
When he first arrived in London, everything was new and overwhelming for him. Language barriers and unfamiliar customs made his early days difficult. I took it upon myself to guide him, helping him adjust to life abroad. Over time, he not only improved his English but also learned to juggle studies and part-time work. Watching him become self-sufficient was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
The Journey Home
After a brief rest at my flat, we prepared for the next leg of our journey—a flight back to our hometown in Ha Tinh, a little province in central Vietnam. From Ho Chi Minh City, we flew to Vinh City, followed by a 50-kilometer drive to our family home. As we stepped off the plane, a crisp, cool breeze greeted us. I inhaled deeply, savoring the fresh air. It had been over a decade since our entire family celebrated Tet together.
Living abroad meant missing many cherished moments, especially Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Initially, being away during such a significant time felt lonely. Over time, I adjusted, finding new ways to celebrate. However, nothing compares to being home, surrounded by loved ones. This was my second consecutive year celebrating Tet with my parents, and the warmth of their presence was unmatched.
As we arrived at the gate, my parents stood waiting, their faces radiant with love and kindness. My mother, ever thoughtful, had prepared an assortment of snacks for our drive home. We passed by my aunt’s house near the airport, exchanging cheerful greetings before continuing on our way.
Preparing for Tet
The days leading up to Tet were filled with a mix of responsibilities and joyful preparations. Despite being occupied with final interviews for the UWC scholarship selection process, I carved out time to go shopping with my mother and help decorate the house. These activities brought back fond memories of my childhood.
Our home has always been vibrant during Tet, adorned with peach blossoms, apricot blossoms, and lilies. My mother has a particular fondness for yellow lilies, their bright petals symbolizing joy and prosperity. The light pink hues of peach blossoms and the golden brilliance of apricot flowers created a harmonious blend of colors, filling our home with a lively, festive atmosphere.
Cherished Traditions
Tet is a time to honor traditions and strengthen family bonds. We meticulously cleaned the house, symbolizing a fresh start for the new year. The kitchen buzzed with activity as my mother prepared traditional dishes, each bite carrying the flavors of home and heritage.
One of my favorite Tet customs is the preparation and sharing of bánh chưng, traditional rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves. The process of making these cakes is labor-intensive but deeply rewarding, bringing family members together as we share stories and laughter.
Visiting relatives and friends is another cherished tradition. The exchange of New Year’s greetings and red envelopes filled with lucky money foster a sense of community and goodwill. It is a time to express gratitude and wish each other happiness and success in the year ahead.
Reflection and Gratitude
Being home for Tet after years abroad has given me a renewed appreciation for the simple joys of life—the warmth of family, the beauty of traditions, and the sense of belonging that only home can provide. My brother’s journey toward independence and self-sufficiency has mirrored my own path, reminding me of the importance of growth, resilience, and support.
As I walked through our beautifully decorated home, surrounded by the vibrant colors of flowers and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Life’s journey may take us far and wide, but the pull of home remains strong, grounding us in love and tradition.
Looking Ahead
Tet is not just a time for celebration; it is also a time for reflection and renewal. As I step into the new year, I carry with me the lessons learned from both challenges and triumphs. The love and support of my family, the strength gained from living abroad, and the beauty of Vietnamese traditions all shape who I am.
This Tet, I am reminded that life’s most meaningful moments are often found in the company of loved ones, in the simple yet profound rituals that connect us to our roots. As we welcome the new year, I look forward to embracing new opportunities, nurturing relationships, and cherishing the journey ahead.
May this Tet bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to all. May we continue to cherish the moments that matter, nurture the relationships that sustain us, and honor the traditions that connect us to our roots. Happy Tet, from my family to yours.