A heartfelt message from teacher Cam Hoa

☘️ In the days leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year), when the streets begin to bustle with the colors of spring, and every household is busy cleaning and decorating, I share in that joyful atmosphere. The children are on holiday, the adults can temporarily put aside their work, and everyone is eagerly anticipating the new year. However, there’s a very private quietness in my heart. The Tet holiday is truly joyful, but thinking about not seeing the children for a few days, not hearing their clear laughter every morning, makes me miss Truong terribly.

It’s only been 5 years since I started teaching children. My entry into education was a special coincidence. Looking back, I was “outside my field,” and in the early days of entering the environment of caring for and educating children, I was both excited and anxious. I understood that the age range of 0-6 is the golden period, the time when the brain develops most rapidly, the foundation for a long journey ahead.

Due to family circumstances, my child has changed schools several times. Thanks to this, I had the opportunity to observe many different educational environments. But honestly, there were times I felt regret. In many places, children mainly ate, slept, and played freely; their potential seemed not to be fully awakened. I once wished: “If only there were a school with a Buddhist spirit, where children would not only learn to read and write but also have their souls nurtured, taught to love and understand themselves.”

And then that wish came true. Not only did my child get to study in that environment, but I was also fortunate enough to work at that very school – Lumbini School. Looking back now, I still see it as a great gift that life has given me.
My more than two years with the school, a period not too long, but enough for me to see deeply, understand thoroughly, and fully appreciate the value that this place offers. I am grateful for all the fortunate circumstances and challenges that have led me to Lumbini School – where I am not just an employee, but also someone who learns every day from the children themselves.
I have seen a remarkable change in my son. From a shy boy, he has gradually become bolder, more confident, and happier. He is allowed to express his thoughts, to be listened to, and to be respected. He is allowed to be himself. And not only my son, but all the children at the school have that opportunity. They learn and play naturally; they are allowed to be creative, to express their ideas; to make decisions according to their abilities; and to learn how to solve problems instead of depending entirely on adults.
Every morning when I come to school, seeing their sparkling eyes and hearing their clear laughter, my heart softens. There’s such a lovely peace here – from the way the children meditate together, eat meals together, and care for the plants… I’m gradually understanding that education isn’t just about teaching literacy, but about sowing seeds of love, self-confidence, and gratitude in their hearts.

Every job has its own pressures, but in return, there are those little hugs and innocent words that make me smile all day. I realize I’ve become more patient, gentler, and learned to love more fully.
These Lunar New Year holidays, even though I’m temporarily away from the school and the children, my heart is still full of gratitude. Grateful for doing the work I love. Grateful for being with the children during their early years. And grateful for being a part of this shared home called Lam Ty Ni.

I believe that, with all the love and dedication here, these tiny seeds will grow into strong green trees tomorrow. And I, too, will grow!

P.S.: A heartfelt message from teacher Cam Hoa.