Lighting up the alleyway

In Phuoc Loi hamlet, O Lam commune, there is Mr. Chau Soc Sa, who quietly and persistently contributes to illuminating every meter of road, every house, and every ray of hope, helping to bring more peace to the lives of the people.

At over 70 years old, with sun-tanned skin and eyes reflecting the calm demeanor of a seasoned veteran, Mr. Chau Soc Sa wakes up early, cleans his house, and reviews the legal documents he carefully keeps in his wooden cabinet. These documents are his essential tools whenever he meets with the villagers. His four years as Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of O Lam commune (1989-1993) helped him understand each person in the villages. When the campaign to illuminate village roads was launched in 2023, he was a pioneer, buying light bulbs to install in front of his house. That first light was like a torch, igniting the entire movement. “As a Party member and a respected figure, I led the way so that the villagers would follow. A well-lit road makes it safer for children to go to school, and people can travel safely at night,” Mr. Soc Sa recounted.

Mr. Chau Soc Sa (on the right) studies documents provided by the Department of Ethnic Minorities and Religion. Photo: DANH THANH

His motorbike has been his constant companion for many years. Every day, he rides around the hamlet, going into the smallest alleys to persuade each household to install lights in front of their houses. Not everyone agreed because they were worried about the electricity bill. Thanks to his persistence, gentleness, and sincerity, he managed to convince more than 200 households to light up their homes. Today, at exactly 6 PM, the entire village is illuminated with warm yellow light. Mr. Chau Chhôi, a resident of Phuoc Loi hamlet, said: "People trust Mr. Soc Sa. He sets an example, so everyone follows. Thanks to him, now every road is lit, and the children can go to school more safely."

The completion of the campaign doesn't mean his work is over. Every evening, he still checks to see who forgot to turn on their lights and reminds them. If a light bulb flickers, he goes to inspect it. Besides lighting, he also "knocks on doors" to promote policies, encourage people to do business, and ensure their children receive a proper education. In many cases of neighborhood conflicts, he patiently explains the situation using his legal knowledge and the sincerity of a respected leader. Mr. Yan Sam Ol - Head of the People's Committee of Phuoc Loi Hamlet - affirmed: "Uncle Soc Sa not only mobilizes but also safeguards the achievements every day. The whole hamlet appreciates him for the small things he does."

For over 35 years, Mr. Chau Soc Sa has consistently dedicated himself to community service. For him, serving the community is both a joy and a responsibility. He carefully preserves the certificates of merit from the province and the commune. In 2024, he was honored as a "Typical and Reputable Person in the Border and Island Region" for the second time. "After many years of working with the people, I am happy to see my homeland changing day by day, and the lives of the people improving. Although the work of propaganda and mobilization has never been easy, I have the support of my family and the consensus of the local people. That is the motivation for me to continue contributing," Mr. Soc Sa confided.

As evening fell, the streetlights along Phuoc Loi hamlet gradually lit up. At the end of the road, the figure of Mr. Chau Soc Sa walked slowly. The light on the road today was not just electric, but the light of dedication, of faith, and of a respected figure for the community.

RENOWNED CITY

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/thap-sang-ngo-nho-a470037.html