It’s raining outside. The kind of soft, steady rain that creates a peaceful rhythm, the sound of which fills the room and adds a sense of coziness to everything around me. There’s something magical about sitting inside, warm and safe, while the world outside is transformed by rain. It’s a feeling that has always comforted me, especially since childhood. As I sit here now, watching the raindrops race down the window, I can’t help but reflect on how this sensation has been woven into the fabric of my memories, my family, and my sense of home.
The Soothing Embrace of Rain
I’ve always loved the rain. There’s something about its gentle presence that feels nurturing and comforting, like a soft embrace from nature itself. Growing up in a humble home, my family didn’t have much in terms of material wealth, but there was an abundance of love. And it was on those rainy days, especially during the colder winter months, that I truly felt the warmth of my family’s care. My mother, always the nurturer, would make my favorite snacks—roasted peanuts or a comforting bowl of sweet soup called “chè.” These small, humble treats became a source of joy, especially on rainy afternoons.
I’d sit by the window, watching the rain as it drizzled down in delicate patterns, while my grandmother sat quietly beside me. I can still picture those moments—my grandmother’s gentle smile, her silent companionship, and the rhythmic sound of raindrops tapping against the window. It was a time when the world outside seemed to fade away, leaving me in a bubble of safety and tranquility.
There’s something about observing the rain that always felt peaceful to me, as though I could lose myself in the dance of the droplets. Even as I grew older and moved far from home, that childlike sense of wonder never really left me. My mother often told me that it’s important to keep a childlike soul, a pure heart that finds joy in the little things. Watching the rain still brings out that sense of wonder in me, a reminder that no matter how much I change, some things—like the comfort of a cozy room on a rainy day—remain constant.
Rain’s Role in Creating a Peaceful Mindset
The scent of rain—the fresh, earthy aroma—always carries a sense of calm. It’s the kind of scent that makes everything feel a little softer, a little quieter. It’s no surprise that many cultures associate rain with reflection, renewal, and even peace. The gentle hum of rainfall has a soothing quality that can slow our busy minds, helping us unwind and process our thoughts. I often find myself daydreaming when it rains, letting my mind wander to all sorts of places. It’s as if the rain creates a space for me to think deeply, to contemplate, and to just be present in the moment.
When I work in my room, which overlooks a small river, the rain adds another layer of beauty to the view. The raindrops hit the surface of the water, creating ripples that spread out in delicate patterns. It’s a simple, quiet beauty that I find mesmerizing. There’s a certain tranquility in these moments of stillness, when the outside world is calmed by the rain and the inner world can mirror that peace.
Tet: A Time for Renewal and Reflection
As I watch the rain and let my mind wander, my thoughts turn to the upcoming celebration of Tết. Tết, or Tết Nguyên Đán, is the most important holiday in Vietnamese culture. It marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new lunar year. This year, Tết will fall sometime in February, following the lunisolar calendar. It is a time for new beginnings, family reunions, and the setting aside of past troubles in hopes of a better future. The festivities last several days, usually starting on the first day of the first month of the Vietnamese lunar calendar, and are filled with rich traditions that reflect the values of family, respect for ancestors, and gratitude for the year that has passed.
Growing up, Tết was always a time of joy and anticipation. It was a time to reconnect with family, to honor the past, and to welcome the new year with optimism. In many ways, Tết is like the rain—it’s a moment of reflection, renewal, and hope. The rituals surrounding Tết are not just customs; they are meaningful practices that ground us in our cultural heritage and help us create new memories with our loved ones. The act of preparing food, decorating the home with auspicious symbols, and spending time with family serves to reinforce the bonds that hold us together.
Coming Home: A Full Circle of Family and Tradition
This year marks my second time celebrating Tết with my family after being abroad for 13 years. During that long period of living away, I never had the chance to come home for Tết, and it’s a feeling that I now cherish deeply. Tết is about family, and being reunited with loved ones during this special time brings a sense of completeness and belonging. The memories of my childhood, the warmth of my mother’s cooking, and the sound of the rain falling outside seem to converge into a beautiful harmony during Tết. It’s a reminder of the cycles of life—of coming home, of reconnecting, and of embracing the changes that come with each passing year.
This year is particularly special because my little brother is flying back from London to join the celebration. It’s been a long time since we’ve been together, and the thought of all of us gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter, fills me with joy. My mother, ever the heart of our home, has been busy preparing some of my favorite dishes for Tết, and it warms my heart to know that I’ll be able to taste those familiar flavors once again.
There’s something truly magical about the way Tết brings family together. It’s about the connections we share, the love that is expressed through every meal, every gesture, and every conversation. It’s a time to set aside the challenges of the past year and to step into the future with hope and optimism. And just like the rain that nourishes the earth, Tết nourishes our spirits, reminding us of the importance of family, tradition, and new beginnings.
The Circle of Life: Finding Peace in the Small Moments
As the rain continues to fall outside, I feel a deep sense of peace. There’s something comforting about the way the world slows down during a rainstorm. It reminds me of the importance of pausing, of being present in the moment, and of appreciating the simple joys of life. Watching the rain, waiting for Tết, and looking forward to being with my family—these moments fill my heart with warmth and gratitude.
In the quiet rhythm of the rain and the anticipation of Tết, I find a sense of renewal. It’s a reminder that life is made up of small, beautiful moments, and that even in times of change, there is comfort in the familiar. Whether it’s the sound of rain, the smell of home-cooked food, or the embrace of family, these are the things that make life feel safe and cozy—just like sitting inside on a rainy day.