Journey of Love

Le Van Tien's journey of exploring new lands is even more fulfilling with his mother by his side.

Le Van Tien, a young man born in the 1990s (residing in Lien Huong town, Binh Thuan province (formerly), now Lien Huong commune, Lam Dong province), has traveled to many places both domestically and internationally with his mother, Tran Thi To (69 years old).

Open the door to emotions

Tien's parents had six children, and Tien was the youngest son. To provide for their children's education, they worked tirelessly and were extremely frugal. Their lives revolved around farming, mainly cultivating fields and raising livestock. The concept of tourism was once something distant, expensive, and less prioritized compared to other essential needs. A few years ago, Tien's father passed away. This immense loss made Tien deeply aware of the finiteness of life and how quickly time with his parents was running out. He became even more determined to repay his mother's kindness in the most complete way possible.

From a young age, Tien was conscious of helping his family with farm work. As he grew older, with his aesthetic sense and creativity, he chose the path of furniture business – a field that suited his passion for beautifying living spaces. Thanks to his efforts, perseverance, and market acumen, Tien's store attracted more and more customers. Once he had a solid financial foundation, he made an effort to arrange his schedule to take his mother on trips to various places, from North to South Vietnam.

The biggest benefit of traveling with her mother, as Tien realized, is the connection, bridging the generation gap as they experience the world together. Photo: HANAMI

"My mother has toiled her whole life for her husband, children, and grandchildren, always putting aside her own joys. I wonder: if not now, then when will she be able to enjoy new things?" - Tien shared.

He persuaded his mother to temporarily leave the familiar kitchen and garden to embark on journeys. From the Mekong Delta to Nha Trang and Da Nang, the two excitedly set foot in the capital Hanoi and then went to Sa Pa to admire its magnificent natural beauty.

Mrs. Tô was moved when her youngest son took her to visit the capital city of Hanoi. Photo: HANAMI

Tien realized that travel is not just about moving through space, but also about opening doors to profound emotions. Travel brings clear benefits mentally. For Tien's mother, each trip makes her feel "younger," laugh more, and talk more. Exposure to new things helps people become more positive, reduces stress, and alleviates feelings of loneliness – something many older people face, whether living in large or small families.

Happiness sparkles in my heart.

Each destination left behind memorable memories. His mother was very cooperative, posing for photos and videos with him, proactively ordering new dishes, and quickly adapting to the new environment.

Each photograph taken during our travels is not just a memento, but also a testament to a period of life full of energy and joy that my mother and Tien will always cherish. Photo: HANAMI

Not only his mother, but Tien himself has changed. He learned patience by accompanying his mother on long journeys, becoming a better listener and more caring. Before each trip, Tien personally prepares the luggage, chooses weather-appropriate clothing for his mother, and brings along medicine and emergency food. The two have become increasingly open, talking to each other like friends. Tien is proud that his mother, though slow, rarely gets discouraged or gives up. During their trip to China last year and recently to Japan in April this year, despite the challenging terrain, having to walk tens of thousands of steps and climb steep slopes, Tien's mother still completed the entire journey.

Tien and her mother on a trip to Mount Fuji (Japan) during the most beautiful cherry blossom season of the year. Photo: HANAMI

Trips with his mother helped Tien preserve moments that, no matter how life changes, he can still recall with sparkling happiness in his heart. These memories are not easy to come by, and cannot be replaced by anything else. Tien's journey also inspires many of his peers. In a society with many pressures from careers and personal needs, spending time with family sometimes becomes a luxury. "We can easily travel with friends or explore many places alone, but we don't have as many opportunities with our parents, because age waits for no one. If you still have the chance to take your parents on a trip, don't miss it," Tien confided.

Van Tien and his mother (far right) during their most recent trip to Japan. Photo: Ha Hao Han

Source: https://nld.com.vn/hanh-trinh-yeu-thuong-196260411175033467.htm