As I bask in the Vietnamese sunshine, my only responsibility right now is ensuring my husband applies sun lotion evenly across my back. ๐
Not everyone has the luxury of a holiday such as this, and it certainly makes prioritising oneself easier, especially as a working mother whose grown-up children are quite able to fend for themselves. Yet, amidst my own journey of learning how to prioritise me, I’ve discovered something profound from the Vietnamese culture: the unparalleled value they place on community and connection.
In Vietnam, community isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the core of their culture. The emphasis on connection is evident in their daily lives and, I believe, is what contributes to their deep sense of contentment. Itโs a lived concept and creates a beautiful ecosystem of love, support, nurture, and growth
The โDust Cafeโ is at the heart of their daily life – pavements in the streets lined with small tables and plastic chairs where locals spend time connecting sharing meals and participating in communal activities. In fact, in busy cities, one may risk being hit by a passing scooter to avoid the excitement of being together.
๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฉ๐ถ๐ฒ๐๐ป๐ฎ๐บ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฎ๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ป๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป
In more rural settings, simply sitting quietly together is just as rewarding. These gatherings are not just about physical presence but about a deep genuine connection. Conversations appear to be rich, filled with attentiveness, respect, and warmth; not a chore but a natural part of life which extends beyond immediate family to include friends, neighbours, and even strangers no matter what their age. The result? A tight-knit community where everyone feels a sense of belonging and responsibility towards each other.
๐๐ฒ๐๐๐ผ๐ป๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ช๐ฒ๐๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ
For me, these observations are a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing our relationships. In the hustle and bustle of Western life, it’s easy to take our connections for granted, to retreat when the going gets tough, or fear we are encroaching when someone else has a need. However, witnessing the Vietnamese way of life has inspired me to be more intentional in my interactions, to prioritise meaningful connections over superficial ones, and to create spaces where my family and friends feel valued, supported and appreciated. It’s easy to fall into the mindset of every person for themselves. I know that I am guilty of this. However, what if we could create our own version of the Dust Cafe, where community and connection are prioritised?
๐๐๐ถ๐น๐ฑ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ข๐๐ฟ ๐ข๐๐ป ๐๐ฐ๐ผ๐๐๐๐๐ฒ๐บ
The deep-rooted value system of the Vietnamese creates an ecosystem of care and support, nurturing and nourishing each individual within the community. Everyone benefits because everyone contributes. Itโs a continuous cycle of growth and generous giving.
What if we could bring this sense of connection into our own lives?
What if we could create spaces where meaningful conversations flourish, where we prioritise face-to-face interactions over digital ones, and where community gatherings become a regular, cherished part of our routine?
Are we challenging our children to do the same, instilling conversation and teaching the value of in-person communication?
Are we as happy to listen and learn from them as we are to share our knowledge and experience with them?
Imagine the impact of being able to seek advice without fear of judgment and offer guidance and support without expecting anything in return.
The challenge is to start small and be consistent, to build a network of support that extends beyond immediate needs. It begins with prioritising our relationships, making time for the people who matter, and creating opportunities for genuine connection. As we do this, we can inspire others to do the same, gradually building a culture where we learn from one another’s experiences and grow together – where each individual plays a part and feels that they belong.
๐๐ผ๐ป๐ฐ๐น๐๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป
The Dust Cafe concept embodies the spirit of community. And while Iโd love to embrace this way of life, the weather in the UK challenges me to consider a different version. Itโs a challenge I am up for.
Personally, it begins with redefining what community means, looking out for the needs of others and being generous and gracious in my giving. None of us should be struggling in silence. As a community, we have an abundance of wisdom and resources for all. The challenge is to seek the opportunity and follow it with action.
While community and connection is something many of us already practice, my time in Vietnam has inspired me to extend these connections beyond my own family and thus create a ripple effect that strengthens our broader community.
Are you ready to embrace this challenge and see how it transforms our lives?
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
