Phu Dong, a generous lifestyle

Since the arrival of industrialization, Dong Nai has undergone a dramatic transformation. Yet, the simple charm of traditional ways of life still remains here.

Phu Dong commune is located in Nhon Trach district, Dong Nai province.

In the eastern region, a vast plain, besides hard work and diligence, one must also possess an optimistic spirit to thrive in the face of nature's challenges. A garden owner told me this with absolute certainty.

That atmosphere, that generous life of the people in the Eastern region, I was immersed in it every day, every hour. Just the laughter and chatter of the women in the early morning revealed the admirable character of the people here. Coming to Dong Nai, I realized that despite the hardships and worries of daily life, the people still maintain an optimistic spirit. They often joke around with each other, telling very ordinary stories. Even things as simple as a fish, a bunch of vegetables, or measuring rice, through the stories of the people of Phu Dong, become laughter that dispels fatigue.

I remember the time when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, and all activities of the people came to a standstill. Production, farming, and agriculture were halted, and everyone had to strain their efforts to fight the pandemic. The countryside was silent. Everyone had to brace themselves and wait for the "storm" to pass. With unity and determination, the day of reaping the rewards eventually came. Unity will lead to success. The people also restored their production and business activities. Then, Phu Dong region rose up strongly, affirming its vibrant vitality.

Upon arriving in Phu Dong, those who have been away for a long time may encounter unexpected sights. Here, besides its unique cultural identity, there is also a vibrant, dynamic life. Centuries ago, this land was strong in agricultural production; now, it also attracts and spreads its culture to friends from all over the world.

In those days , Phu Dong commune was originally settled by people around canals and waterways, forming villages early on with hamlets and rural areas characteristic of the Southeast region of Vietnam. This cultural feature has been inherited through generations and has become what it is today: a culture of settled life along rivers and canals, with a favorable environment for development.

Here, the character of the people of the Southeast region is clearly reflected in their daily lives. From working in the fields to farming and fishing, the people of Phu Dong demonstrate a generous and open-minded nature in their speech and actions. While striving to develop a prosperous life, they remain kind, hospitable, and always ready to share with their fellow community members.

The traditional cultural and historical values ​​of Phu Dong have always evolved throughout history, but the essence of the people of Phu Dong remains the same, preserving their age-old culture. A special characteristic of the people here is their perseverance and indomitable spirit, even in the face of suffering. More than half a century has passed, but the people here still vividly remember the massacre of that year. Every time they pass the memorial, memories resurface, reminding the people here to maintain their unwavering and indomitable spirit.

Talking to the locals, I gained a deeper understanding of the events that those who left and those who stayed behind experienced… The memories are truly painful, but they also motivate those who remain to continue living, to continue existing, and to weather the storms of life. The emotions that remain are also the heartfelt message that the people of Phu Dong are passing on to future generations: that they must never lose their will to live, their will to exist.

Phu Dong today has given me a breath of fresh air. From the fishermen casting their nets on the river every day to the factory workers and small traders, I see a new spirit, a new way of life. The cultural and historical traditions of this heroic land in the East continue to exist and develop despite the ups and downs. And here, dynamism gradually permeates, so that visitors leaving Phu Dong in Dong Nai feel a new surge of energy. Perhaps a Northerner like me finds it surprising and novel to encounter the culture of the Southeast region, but the impression is truly positive and unforgettable. The generosity and open-mindedness of the people of the East will also become a lasting memory.

The "Eastern Spirit" writing contest, organized by Thanh Nien Newspaper in collaboration with Phu My 3 Intensive Industrial Zone, is an opportunity for readers to share their deep affection for the land and people of the southeastern provinces (including Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Dong Nai, Binh Duong , Binh Phuoc, Binh Thuan, Tay Ninh, and Ho Chi Minh City), and to contribute best practices, new models, and creative, dynamic thinking of the people of the Eastern region. Authors can submit entries in the form of essays, personal reflections, notes, journalistic reports, etc., for a chance to win attractive prizes worth up to 120 million VND.

Please send your entries to haokhimiendong@thanhnien.vn or by mail to the Thanh Nien Newspaper Editorial Office: 268-270 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City (please clearly indicate on the envelope: Entry for the "Hao Khi Mien Dong " Contest). The contest will accept entries until November 15, 2023. Articles selected for publication in the Thanh Nien daily newspaper and the thanhnien.vn online newspaper will receive payment according to the editorial office's regulations.

For detailed rules, please see here.

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