During my recent trip to Vietnam, I had the pleasure of meeting an extraordinary individual. She was my tour guide in Sapa, and her story left a lasting impression on me.
I remember the day vividly. She arrived in the morning, dressed in a traditional Vietnamese outfit adorned with vibrant colors and numerous village accessories. As she approached me with a charming smile, she introduced herself, "Hi, my name is Ha."
"I come from Lao Chai," she began. "This city is my university. All these streets, junctions, and boroughs represent my academic years."
Ha pointed out various locations while sharing stories about her challenging past. Despite her hardships, she spoke English fluently and clearly, which amazed me. In urban areas like Hanoi, finding someone who speaks 50% proper English is rare. Yet, here was Ha, a rural woman with impeccable English.
Ha shared that she had a typical rural childhood in Vietnam, where education is not entirely free. Although primary education is compulsory and tuition-free, supplementary costs like textbooks and uniforms often keep poor children out of school. Students at other levels must pay tuition fees of about VND 100,000 to VND 200,000 (Rs 1800 – Rs 2400) per month, along with additional fees for lunch and facilities. These expenses made it difficult for Ha to continue her education.
Despite these challenges, Ha never stopped learning. Although she couldn't complete primary school, she taught herself three languages by interacting with tourists in Sapa. She also volunteered as an English teacher at several local schools, driven by a desire to give village children the education she missed out on.
Ha's journey is truly inspiring. Her versatility with languages and her energetic personality have propelled her to success. As a part-time tour guide, she leverages her role to enhance her teaching career. Often, she invites her visitors to volunteer in her English classes, providing village kids with valuable exposure to foreigners.
The sad part of Ha's story is that she manages all this while being a single mother, supporting her child, parents, and brother. To be honest life in the countryside is tough, with little attention from the government compared to urban areas. Yet, people like Ha continue to shine and hustle.
Life isn't always fair, but Ha's perseverance is a testament to the human spirit. "Every day comes with a new problem. You can either cry or smile; I always choose to smile," she said.
This incredible woman taught me that no matter the circumstances, we should never give up. Ha's story is a powerful reminder of the strength and determination found in the human spirit.
♥️♥️
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