He is known for his emotionally rich writings, his persistent journalistic journey, and his books, such as "Like Drifting Clouds" and "Like Gentle Winds," which have been widely well-received by readers. But in his hometown of Nong Son, what makes people remember him most is not his title as a journalist or writer, but his sincere heart and quiet sharing throughout the years.
In that rural area nestled amidst rolling hills, natural disasters are never an unfamiliar story. The successive rainy seasons, the fierce storms, the roofs crumbling in the strong winds… have become familiar memories for the people here. And in those most difficult times, people always remember Luu Dinh Long as someone who quietly shared his burdens through his actions, without fanfare or ostentation.
Mr. Luu Dinh Long (right in the photo) presents gifts during the 16th "Unexpected Joy" charity program in 2024.
PHOTO: DUY HOANG
Seventeen years ago, he initiated a charitable program called "Unexpected Joy" with the simplest things: a few dozen red envelopes of money given directly to the poor during the Lunar New Year season. At that time, no one thought that this small journey could go so far. But it was the sincerity that created the ripple effect. From those first small gifts, the program gradually received support from many organizations and individuals from many places. Through each spring, the charitable journeys quietly return to Nong Son, bringing with them cakes, sweets, necessities, financial support, and above all, the warmth of human kindness.
Seventeen seasons of "Unexpected Joy" have passed, and over 3,000 gifts have been delivered to needy families in the countryside. That number may not seem large amidst the countless charitable activities today, but what is truly valuable is the perseverance of a son of the countryside who, far from home, has never let the flame of love die out. The people of Nong Son often recount the days leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year), when the weather in Central Vietnam turns chilly, and the gifts given are not simply material things. They represent joy, a feeling of sharing, and the knowledge that somewhere, there are still people who remember their homeland with all their hearts.
Perhaps because he himself grew up in hardship, he understands poverty and the struggles of rural people after each natural disaster better than anyone else. In 2020, Typhoon No. 9 swept through Central Vietnam, leaving behind unprecedented losses. Many houses in Nong Son had their roofs completely blown off, and many families were left penniless after a day of storms. At that time, amidst the overwhelming difficulties, Mr. Luu Dinh Long once again stepped forward to connect people's hearts. He appealed for support from friends, colleagues, and philanthropists near and far. His sincerity received widespread response. More than 200 million VND was donated to support over 100 households severely affected by the typhoon.
Mr. Luu Dinh Long presents gifts to families affected by Typhoon No. 9.
PHOTO: DUY HOANG
In impoverished rural areas, during times of hardship, such acts of sharing are more precious than anything else. A new corrugated iron roof is rebuilt. A house is less dilapidated. A family receives a little extra capital to overcome difficulties. This is not just relief, but also a way to sow hope again after stormy days.
What is admirable about Luu Dinh Long is that he doesn't view volunteering as a fleeting trend. For him, it seems to have become an integral part of his spiritual life. For nearly a decade, the "Mid-Autumn Festival with Minh" program has been regularly maintained every year during the full moon of the eighth lunar month. Small lanterns, simple sweets, the laughter of children in a rural area still lacking many resources… all create a complete Mid-Autumn Festival for many children here. Some children have never held a new star-shaped lantern in their hands. Some children are accustomed to scarcity all year round. But then, on the Mid-Autumn night, they get to play, receive gifts, and feel the care from those who have never forgotten them. These seemingly small things have a profound nurturing power for the souls of young children.
Mr. Luu Dinh Long presents gifts to a needy family in the local area.
PHOTO: DUY HOANG
Not only does he initiate programs himself, but Mr. Luu Dinh Long is also present in many community activities in his hometown. Wherever there is a difficult situation, a terminally ill patient, a family experiencing an accident or sudden loss, people see him quietly offering support. Sometimes it's through a call for help on social media. Sometimes it's direct assistance. Sometimes it's quietly sending a small sum of money to help someone overcome their most difficult time. He also regularly contributes to charitable meals at the local medical center – where many poor patients are still battling illness and hardship every day. What many people appreciate about him is not just the money or material support, but the way he maintains humanity in every action. He doesn't appear as a benefactor, but as a son returning to share with his homeland.
In an era where many values are easily swept away by the hurried pace of life, people like Mr. Luu Dinh Long make us believe that kindness still exists, silently but persistently, like an underground stream nourishing life. Someone once asked him why he is so deeply concerned about his homeland. Perhaps the answer lies in Nong Son itself – the land that nurtured him through scorching summers, the looming floods each year, and the simple affection of its people. A person who grows up amidst hardship often carries within them a profound empathy for those less fortunate. For many, homeland may only be a place to remember. But for him, homeland is also a place to return to with a sense of responsibility. Therefore, even though he lives and works far from home, he has never been detached from the joys and sorrows of his birthplace. Every event in his hometown makes him ponder. Every difficult situation motivates him to act. Perhaps the most valuable thing about him is his unwavering commitment to kindness. Doing good deeds once isn't difficult, but doing it consistently for nearly two decades is no easy feat. That journey requires not only time and effort, but also a heart big enough to always empathize with the suffering of others.
Amidst today's fast-paced life, where many are busy pursuing their own success, there are still those who quietly dedicate a part of their lives to keeping the community warm. They don't need to be celebrated or stand in the spotlight. Sometimes, their only concern is how to alleviate the hardship of living in their homeland, or the lack of a loving embrace for their child.
Luu Dinh Long's actions not only bring sharing to the people of his hometown, but also subtly extend the spirit of mutual support and compassion. Through his connections, many kind-hearted people have found their way to Nong Son, and then love continues to spread in very simple ways.
People often say that homeland is a place to return to. But for people like Luu Dinh Long, homeland is also a place to give. To give sharing, love, and years of steadfast dedication to building relationships. Perhaps, after all, what remains is not the numbers or the number of charitable programs completed, but the image of a son who always keeps his heart directed towards his roots – like a small, silent flame, yet enough to warm countless lives amidst the stormy seasons of Central Vietnam.
We invite you to participate in the 6th " Living Beautifully" contest , with a total prize pool of 400 million VND.
Entering its sixth season with the theme " Journey Without Limits ," the "Living Beautifully" contest organized by Thanh Nien Newspaper continues to expand its scope in seeking and honoring positive values in daily life. The contest includes a Writing category (essays, reports, notes) and a Photo category, with a total prize value of 400 million VND.
Entries should be sent to the email address: songdep@thanhnien.vn , or by mail to the Thanh Nien Newspaper Editorial Office : 268-270 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, Xuan Hoa Ward, Ho Chi Minh City (please clearly indicate on the envelope: Entry for the 6th "Living Beautifully" Contest - 2026. Note: This only applies to the Article category).
DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING ENTRIES: From October 7th to October 31st, 2020
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nang-nghia-que-nha-185260525152635737.htm
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