International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2022, with the theme “The Resilience and Contribution of Older Women,” is truly meaningful; “it marks and reminds us of the important role of older women in overcoming global challenges and demonstrating their strong resilience and contributions to the development of society.”
In our country, the important role of women in the family and society throughout thousands of years of national history has created a unique tradition of Vietnamese women: "heroic, indomitable, loyal, and capable." In the current trend of integration and development of the country, the role of women is affirmed more than ever, through their positive contributions to all fields of development and social activities.
“Life without a loving mother, without women – where would heroes and poets be?” (Maxim Gorky). In response to this year's International Day of Older Persons, with the theme of the contributions of older women to all of humanity, it is also an opportunity for us to honor the Vietnamese grandmothers and mothers who have been, are, and will forever be symbols of sacrifice, patience, and a source of faith and motivation for generations of children who have made the glorious history of our nation.
Speaking of grandmothers and mothers, we not only express gratitude but also profound respect. Many exemplary elderly Vietnamese women today have nurtured the image of the Vietnamese Mother, keeping the "fire" of the family home – the cell of society – alive. They play a crucial role in upholding morality, shaping the character of generations of children and grandchildren, guiding them to grow up with dreams and aspirations, and contributing practically to their homeland and country. This, undoubtedly, demonstrates respect, gratitude, love, and responsibility towards the elderly in general, and grandmothers and mothers in particular.
Yes! For each of us, our homeland seems to be an embodiment of our mother or grandmother; and with all our gratitude, love, respect, and trust, we will have the motivation and responsibility to live better and more usefully – that is also the greatest expression of gratitude!
Article by: Dinh Sam
Illustrative image: Archival material
