The day Thanh started working in our office, he greeted everyone with a gentle smile. We all thought he had gotten the job through connections. So, under our disdainful gazes, he bowed his head, his face flushed, and walked to his seat.

Our deliberate avoidance, coupled with his introverted personality, caused our working relationship to become increasingly distant. We were like people on a congested road, walking close together but passing each other like strangers. Thanh's two days off in his first month of work didn't affect us at all; the office felt as if no one was missing.

Illustration photo: baodongnai.com.vn

By the second month, we gradually realized that Thanh also had many admirable qualities. He was very hardworking and had a humble personality. Whenever work was discussed, he always listened carefully and humbly learned.

Just when we were starting to develop some feelings for Thanh, he asked for two days off. The head teacher seemed very annoyed, saying irritably, "Why do you keep asking for time off?" Thanh said, "I have some personal business!" The head teacher asked him again, "What is it?" He hesitated for a while before finally saying, "I have some personal business!"

In the third month, Thanh again requested two days off. The head of department flew into a rage, angrily saying, "Everyone has personal matters to attend to, I understand and support that. But why can't you do your personal business on the weekend instead of insisting on taking two extra working days?"

He offered no explanation, his face contorted with injustice, and tears welled up in his eyes and rolled down his cheeks.

After Thanh left, the Head of Department immediately went to find his former superiors to talk about his situation. We chuckled to ourselves, thinking, "Just wait, there's going to be some drama!"

The head of department returned, slumped into his chair, and began to lament incessantly. He kept blaming himself, and we looked at him with utter surprise, not understanding what had happened. The head of department explained, "I was so hasty and angry; without investigating thoroughly, I hurt a noble heart!"

According to the head of the department, Thanh is a dedicated philanthropist, spending two days each month helping out at a nursing home. Rain or shine, he dedicates two days a year to assisting the nursing home. This is also the reason why he was hired for his current job without having to take an entrance exam.

The office suddenly fell silent, a still atmosphere enveloped everything, everyone looked at each other in silence, no one said a word.

We didn't ask why he didn't choose the weekend to go to the nursing home, or why it had to be a secret. Our previous coldness towards Thanh made us feel unworthy to ask those questions. What we wanted most was to give him a warm hug when he returned.

I think everyone else feels the same way as I do: there are a thousand things I want to say to Thanh, but I can't find the words to say them.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/van-hoa/van-hoc-nghe-thuat/hai-ngay-nghi-1038919