Top 20 Short Stories about Ho Chi Minh's Moral Example

In that year, Uncle Ho visited the rehabilitation camp for veterans in Hanoi. The news of Uncle's arrival quickly spread throughout the camp. Veterans, forgetting their crutches, all wanted to get closer to Uncle, even forgetting the masks they had to use. While Uncle was inquiring about the health of the veterans, suddenly a comrade with a damaged eye, guided by a nurse, came to ask to stand next to Uncle. Comrade Ninh, walking with Uncle, intended to step back to support that comrade, but Uncle had already walked up and raised his hands to welcome. The veteran comrade embraced Uncle tightly, choked up, saying, 'Uncle!' Uncle remained silent for a moment before continuing the inquiry.

Uncle went to each bed, asking about the condition of the seriously ill comrades, how much rice they ate each meal. That day, under the scorching sun, Uncle, still using a paper fan, fanned the veterans. Someone wanted to replace him, but Uncle said:

- Let Uncle fan.

That day, when leaving, Uncle wasn't happy. Perhaps that's why when the authorities planned to install air conditioning where Uncle stayed, Uncle asked them to bring it to the veteran comrades.

A soldier, later promoted to the rank of general, who protected Uncle Ho once said, 'Uncle often teaches our military and people 'Need, Thrift, Integrity, Correctness, Devotion, and Generosity.' Uncle teaches us to set an example. Uncle teaches us to uphold revolutionary ethics. Some cadres think that revolutionary 'ethics' are only to be applied in work. As for myself, being close to Uncle, I see it immediately during meals. Uncle has also taught us what 'ethics' means.

Firstly, Uncle never demands that the State President must eat this or that. The hardships of the resistance were enough, and Uncle lived like an ordinary person. When peace was restored, Uncle did not want to consider himself a king with special and luxurious meals.

Secondly, Uncle's meals are very simple, all ethnic dishes, fermented soybean sauce, braised fish... usually just 3 dishes, sometimes a bit more, 4 or 5 dishes at most...

Thirdly, Uncle would often tell us to finish what is on our plate, not touching other dishes. When picking up food, it must be purposeful. Even cutting a piece of butter must be done neatly. I remember a trip to Zone 4; the provincial secretary and chairman of Quang Binh province ate with Uncle. There was a bit too much Nghệ sauce in the meal. After finishing his meal first, Uncle sat by the table. The two provincial cadres continued eating and put down their chopsticks. Uncle looked at the bowl of sauce and said:

- You two divide the sauce, add it to the rice and finish it.

The two stunned cadres had to continue eating, feeling full and salty... That evening, the two comrades took Uncle to visit the beach. It was hot, and they were very thirsty.

Another time, a high-ranking diplomat from Ha Tinh, dining with Uncle, picked up the last few strands of water spinach and put them in the soy sauce, thinking the mission was accomplished. Little did he know that Uncle said:

- Nghệ sauce is a gift from the people; it's delicious. Add a bit more rice to your bowl and wipe it clean...

Fourthly, if something delicious is never eaten by Uncle alone. Uncle will share with this person and that person, and finally, come to his own portion, which is usually the smallest. After eating, he arranges the bowl and chopsticks neatly to make it easier for the serving staff.

Fifthly, Uncle sometimes seems to have moments while eating rice, holding chopsticks, lifting the rice bowl. Uncle seems to be contemplating something. It's as if Uncle is thinking about the people, the old people, the hungry and ragged children somewhere. It's as if Uncle is remembering the days of labor in a foreign land, earning every piece of bread for food, for the revolution... Or maybe Uncle is thinking about the times in prison with nothing to eat. It's hard to understand, and the more difficult to understand, the more I feel sorry for Uncle, too sorry. Now, at these luxurious banquets, with high salaries, delicious food laid out, strangely, I think of Uncle... even if I eat, it doesn't taste as good as when I used to sit at a silver-rich meal with Uncle.

Personal connection and lessons learned: Every time I think of Uncle, I think of a great personality in President Ho Chi Minh. It is a unity of thought and action, a unity of activity and political personality with a very simple, modest, and thrifty attitude. To study and follow the moral example of Ho Chi Minh is not only about words but also about feeling his life, his career, and his ethics from the heart, right from the beginning of the year according to the guidance and direction of our University, the Training Department is committed, serious, and self-conscious in implementing the 'progressive' policy through specific practical actions every day, not just in form. All units implement the principle that if the smallest saving is possible, it must be attempted; whatever benefits the university must be done.

At the beginning of 1954, though spring had arrived, Viet Bac remained chilly. The northern wind blew fiercely, and drizzling rain caused a penetrating cold. Despite the weather, Uncle Ho worked late into the night. Draped in his worn cotton jacket, occasionally puffing on his tobacco pipe, the sound of the typewriter clacking away...

It was cold, but standing guard beside Uncle, I felt my heart warming. I took a light step, circling the area. Once while walking and contemplating, I stumbled into a pit dug for an air-raid shelter. As I tried to find a way out, suddenly I heard footsteps approaching. A voice asked:

– Who fell there?

Before I could recognize who it was, I felt Uncle's hands reaching under my armpits, his beard touching my face. I tried to compose myself to speak, but was shocked to see Uncle not wearing his cotton jacket, walking in socks, one foot with a shoe, the other without. Tears welled up in my eyes. While pulling me up, Uncle asked:

– Are you hurt?

Uncle touched all over me, straightened my legs and arms. Then he said:

– You fell pretty hard. Sit down here; let me massage your legs to relieve the pain. Sit down! Sit down!

I was stunned, couldn't believe my ears. Did Uncle really say that? Oh, Uncle! Uncle cares so much for us!

I replied to Uncle:

– No, Uncle, I'm fine. Then I tried to walk away to put Uncle's mind at ease.

Uncle smiled kindly and admonished, 'Be careful with everything you do.' Then he turned back.

I stood there watching Uncle until I heard the rhythmic sound of Uncle's typewriter echoing evenly on the wooden floor in the middle of the Viet Bac night.

Lesson learned: Uncle Ho, the great leader of the nation, had boundless love for the people. For soldiers, Uncle cared for them like an old father cares for his children. Despite the freezing weather, when he learned a soldier had fallen, Uncle rushed to inquire and care, forgetting his coat and, in haste, even his shoes. Uncle's love for the soldiers made everyone cherish and honor the old father of the nation. From this story, we can see that in life, love and care are crucial. So, give love and care to others, whether strangers or acquaintances, and you will receive much more in return.

- Are you tired, comrades?

Everyone responded:

- No, Uncle!

Upon Uncle's signal, all officers and soldiers sat down in rows on the steps, surrounding Uncle.

Starting the story, Uncle pointed to the temple, affectionately asking:

- Do you know where this is? This is the Hung Temple, our ancestors' altar. Our meeting here today may be coincidental but holds great significance. In the past, the Hung Kings contributed to building our nation, and today, we, the descendants, must together protect it. After enduring many eras of struggle, our ancestors secured the capital. In the past eight or nine years, thanks to our people's resolute resistance, we have achieved victory and returned to Hanoi. Therefore, you are entrusted by the Party and the Government with the task of taking over the capital, a tremendous honor.

Afterward, Uncle reminded: 'Our army must not loosen its grip just because we live in peace. As for the empire in the South and empires worldwide, they still need to build strong armies.'

Everyone remembered Uncle's encouraging words and gentle advice. At the end of the story, Uncle said:

- The people of Hanoi have been eagerly awaiting you since the day you left, anticipating the red flag with the yellow star, eagerly awaiting your cheers. Be worthy of that honor and responsibility.

Extremely excited, everyone stood up, crowded around Uncle Ho, shouting loudly: 'President Ho forever! Wishing Uncle health and a long life!'

Uncle smiled kindly and said:

- Alright, for Uncle to be healthy and live long, you must follow Uncle's words.

Uncle Ho's admonitions to the troops at the Hung Temple 48 years ago have posed a heavy and resounding responsibility for our generation today.

Ms. Vien, daughter of Mr. Pu San, a Nung person from Cao Bang, recounts: In early 1942, due to urgent work demands, Uncle Ho had to decide to venture out during the day on the road from Nuoc Hai to Pac Bo, even passing through the dangerous Don Chương guard post. The guide and protector were none other than Mr. Pu San, a local revolutionary fighter back then.

After careful consideration and decision-making, Uncle Ho devised a 'script' and personally played the role of 'director' for this journey. Pu San played the role of a son inviting the old teacher to come back to perform a ritual for his sick mother, haunted by a ghost. Pu San had to ask his father to borrow the costumes and ritual items from the teacher for Uncle to play the role. Before leaving, Uncle instructed Pu San to disguise himself and rehearse a few times to get used to it. Uncle even posed hypothetical situations on the road to see how to handle them, aiming to avoid the enemy's suspicion.

The two set off. When they were only a few hundred meters away from the Don Chương guard post, Uncle suddenly stepped up next to Pu San and asked about certain matters to check his mental state and reminded him of how to behave with the guards. Uncle asked Pu San:

- Do you remember the script?

- Yes, Uncle, I remember!

- Remember your role?

- To invite Teacher Mo home to perform a ritual for my sick mother. The events on the road unfolded exactly like the 'script.' As the two approached the guard station, a soldier with a stern face shouted:

- Where are these two going?

Quick-witted Pu San replied:

- We're going to invite Teacher Mo to our home to perform a ritual for my sick mother!

- Is it true?

- Very true!

One of them rushed out to rummage through Pu San's belongings and, seeing the full set of tools and clothing, sutras, amulets, wooden seals, etc., they let them pass. But as Pu San lifted the load onto his shoulder, a guy named Tong, the former commune leader, arrived, grabbed Pu San's shoulder, and happily said:

- What luck! My wife is also sick; I have to invite this Teacher Mo to our house right away!

The situation was tricky. If they accepted, it would prolong Uncle's activities, and there was a greater danger of accidentally revealing the plan. Remembering Uncle's instructions to stay calm and composed, Pu San quickly thought of a clever way to refuse:

- No, you can't! My mother has been seriously ill for a long time; we must bring Teacher Mo home for the ritual right away! After that, I'll bring him to perform the ritual for the wife of the commune leader.

Pu San even came up with a dramatic performance whispered in Tong's ear:

- I'm just saying what I think: this Teacher Mo is not very good; he only agrees if it's for my mother!

Tong didn't believe Pu San's words, so he patted Uncle on the back and asked probing questions. Unpredictably matching each other, Uncle Ho also acted very skillfully, making a surprised gesture as if being unexpectedly patted, with the posture of the old teacher having slightly drooping ears, a lighthearted tone, and when speaking, Uncle deliberately revealed his stained and smoked teeth, exactly like an old man from the local area wearing shabby clothes, a ragged headscarf, looking disheveled, so he didn't bother to invite him anymore. Later, Mr. Pu San learned that Uncle had used sticky rice, hardened resin, and chewed plastic to disguise his dirty teeth to deceive the enemy.

Uncle and Mr. Pu San returned to Nà Mạ village to avoid the encircling enemy before continuing on to Pac Bo cave. Although Mr. Đức Thanh reported that Mr. Kim Dong had gone ahead to survey the enemy situation, Uncle still wasn't completely at ease. Uncle called for Kim Dong to both meet him for the first time and answer direct questions about whether the enemy had withdrawn from the surrounding area of Pac Bo.

After directly questioning Kim Dong, Uncle Ho said to Đức Thanh:

- This little boy is clever, courageous, very good!

Through this story, we can see Uncle Ho's working style from the early revolutionary days. Uncle was very careful and meticulous in using cadres, not only educating, guiding, and explaining thoroughly but also always monitoring, checking, and reminding when performing duties.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Lien, former officer of the Office of the President, recalls: While working in Uncle Ho's office, she sometimes took on the task of sewing and mending clothes, blankets, curtains, and pillows for Uncle. This job allowed her to be close to Uncle and learn a lot.

Uncle's clothes were torn, and sometimes they were patched up before Uncle agreed to replace them. The peaceful green pillow of Uncle, brought to her by Mr. Can (Uncle's servant), was sewn back and forth by her. Holding Uncle's pillow, she teared up, telling Mr. Can to replace it with another pillow for Uncle to use, but Uncle didn't agree. He still used the patched pillow.

The years of helping in Uncle's office gave her unforgettable memories.

She also mentioned:

In North Vietnam, one day Uncle returned late from a business trip and stopped by the office. He rested for a while because he was tired. Comrade Hoang Huu Khang, Uncle's bodyguard, said to her:

- Uncle is too tired to eat rice. Cook a bowl of porridge for Uncle.

Hearing this while resting, Uncle told her:

- Cook the porridge with cold rice, quick and economical, saving rice from being wasted.

The story she told moved us deeply and made us feel great compassion for Uncle. Uncle was truly simple and frugal, caring like a father for a large family, even in times of scarcity. The patched pillow and the bowl of porridge cooked with cold rice by the State President had a significant impact on the thoughts of each person, especially now, as our Party and State are implementing the movement 'Studying and Following Ho Chi Minh's Thoughts, Morality, and Style.'

Experience Lesson: The small story above shows that we need to follow Uncle's example of simplicity and frugality. Frugality can help those who are less fortunate than us, assist those who truly need help, and make both the giver and the receiver happy.

Smoking was Uncle's only pleasure, as he often said. However, after falling ill, following the advice of the medical council, Uncle planned to quit gradually. He said:

- Smoking has been a habit since my youth. Quitting now is good, but not easy. You all must help me overcome this bad habit. Then, Uncle outlined a gradual quitting program. Initially, it involved reducing the number of cigarettes smoked per day. When craving for a cigarette, Uncle engaged in some activity to divert attention and focus. At an old age, doing this was extremely challenging. Developing a new habit while giving up an old one was not easy at all.

Extraordinary determination was needed to achieve this. Uncle asked comrades to help and placed a Penicillin bottle on his work desk and in his room. When he felt the urge to smoke, he stubbed out half a cigarette into the bottle. After saving half a cigarette for later, some comrades advised that smoking unfinished cigarettes was not beneficial, but Uncle said, 'But smoking like this helps to save.' With this method, Uncle reduced from a whole pack to three or four cigarettes a day. Gradually, Uncle smoked less.

In early March 1968, with a mild cough, Uncle decided to quit entirely. A few days later, for a week, comrades left a pack of cigarettes on Uncle's work desk, but Uncle didn't use them.

After a week of seeing Uncle's determination, comrades removed all cigarettes. One month later, while meeting with comrade Vu Quang, then the Secretary of the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Uncle said: Uncle has quit smoking, and he urged the youth not to smoke. Later, Uncle wrote a poem without a title:

Avoiding cigarettes and limiting alcohol for three years,

Being healthy is the ultimate happiness.

Celebrating the continuous victories in the South,

One year covers all four seasons of Spring.

Experience Lesson: Through this story, we understand that in all endeavors and activities we enjoy, if we are determined, we will surely succeed. The same applies to studying; we should persevere and be patient, no matter how difficult and challenging it may be, we must try our best.

In 1945, at the commencement of the speech at the graduation ceremony of Class V Training School for Vietnam Officials, President Ho Chi Minh candidly advised: 'The invitations stated 8 o'clock as the start time, and it's now 8:10, yet many are still not here. I advise everyone to work on time because time is very precious.' Regarding punctuality, during the resistance against the French, a comrade, a general, arrived 15 minutes late to meet Uncle Ho. Of course, there was a reason: heavy rain, swollen streams, horses couldn't cross.

Uncle Ho said:

'If you, as a general, are 15 minutes late, how many contracts would your troops fail to fulfill? Today, you were complacent and didn't prepare enough plans, so you lost the initiative.'

Another time, Uncle Ho and comrades had to wait for a party member, an officer, to start the meeting.

Uncle Ho asked:

'How many minutes late are you?'

'Sir, I'm 10 minutes late!'

'Your calculation is wrong; your 10 minutes must be multiplied by 500 people waiting here.'

In 1953, Uncle Ho decided to visit the ideological training class of intellectuals, at that time entering a fierce struggle of ideas. Approaching the departure time, suddenly, it poured rain. Comrades working alongside Uncle Ho suggested postponing to another day. Some even suggested holding the class near Uncle Ho's residence… But Uncle Ho disagreed:

'If an appointment is made, it must be kept, on time. If we wait for the weather to clear, when will we ever arrive? I'd rather just a few of us get wet than the whole class waiting in vain!.'

Thus, Uncle Ho went to visit the training class according to the schedule amidst the cheers of the students... Our Uncle Ho valued his time as much as he valued others' time. That's why throughout his life, Uncle Ho never let anyone wait for him. His appreciation for time is indeed a shining example for us to learn from.

Experience Lesson:

• Human time is limited. One can rebuild a house, a road, but one cannot recover lost moments. That's why time is more valuable than gold or silver. Saving time is the smartest and most civilized thing to do.
• Everyone can save their time. However, to achieve that, we need specific, detailed plans; neat, tidy work; teachers prepare lessons carefully before class, start class on time, and use class time effectively; officials need to prepare good content before organizing meetings, meeting people,... That is saving your time and everyone else's time.

One winter night in 1951, the northern winds carried with them cold raindrops, making the already frigid air even colder. The Ty valley nestled in quiet slumber, except for a small stilt house emitting light. Here, Uncle Ho remained awake, working late into the night as on many other ordinary nights. Suddenly, the door of the stilt house creaked open, and Uncle Ho's figure appeared. He descended the stairs, walking straight toward the base of the tree where I stood guard.

'Are you on duty here?' he asked.

'Yes, Uncle,' I replied hesitantly.

'Don't you have a raincoat?'

I hesitated but boldly answered:

'No, Uncle, I don't!'

Uncle Ho looked at me from head to toe affectionately:

'Night duty in a raincoat keeps you dry and warmer...'

After that, Uncle Ho slowly went back inside, lost in thought...

One week later, Comrade Bay and a few others brought us 12 long military jackets. He said:

'Uncle said to try finding raincoats for ourselves. Today, with these jackets, we brought them to our comrades. Getting one of these jackets is precious, but for us, it's even more valuable and joyful when Uncle Ho personally takes care of us with the loving heart of a father. The next morning, I wore the new jacket I received to guard where Uncle Ho worked. Seeing me, Uncle Ho smiled and praised:

'Today, you have a new jacket.'

'Yes, Uncle, these are the jackets Comrade Bay brought to our squad, one for each of us.'

Hearing my response, Uncle Ho was very pleased. After giving advice:

'In the cold, you need to take care of your health and strive to do your work well.'

After the advice, Uncle Ho returned to the stilt house to work. My heart tightened with emotion. Uncle Ho had set aside warm jackets for us while he only wore a thin, old cotton jacket. We should have taken care of Uncle Ho more, yet he cared for us so much.

From then on, we also cherished Uncle Ho's jacket as if holding onto his warmth. That warmth gave us additional strength in every stage of our work.

Experience Lesson:

• This story depicts Uncle Ho's loving care for the officers serving around him. Despite being busy with numerous tasks, when he saw the sentries guarding under the stilt house getting wet and cold, Uncle Ho urgently urged the army to quickly find warm jackets for them. Just one jacket, but it warmed the bodies and hearts of the soldiers and millions of Vietnamese hearts.
• As in the lyrics of the song 'Thuận Nguyễn': 'Uncle Ho is the dearest love. In the whole nation and in the hearts of humanity. Throughout his life, Uncle Ho cared for the happiness of the people. Throughout his life, Uncle Ho sacrificed for the Vietnamese nation. Uncle Ho loved the old people returning home and sent them gifts of silk. Uncle Ho loved the little children during Mid-Autumn Festival and sent them presents. Uncle Ho loved the night-shift laborers sleeping outside in the forest. Uncle Ho loved the soldiers standing guard on the border. Uncle Ho wrote letters of inquiry sending endless love.'

Uncle Ho's sandals 'came to life' in 1947, crafted from a military jeep tire that our forces ambushed in North Vietnam. The sandals are not thick, with a wide front strap and a small back strap that fits Uncle Ho's feet perfectly.

During official trips, Uncle Ho jokingly told accompanying officials:

'These are the magical sandals from ancient fairy tales... Sandals blessed by the earth, wherever they go, they're favored. When encountering streams or slippery rain, making it difficult to walk with muddy water in the sandals, Uncle Ho would take them off by hand. When visiting farmers, walking across fields being cultivated or harvested, Uncle Ho rolled up his trousers, carrying the sandals by hand or under his armpit... Eleven years have passed, and it's still the same pair of sandals... The guards have even 'asked' Uncle Ho to change sandals a few times, but Uncle Ho said 'they can still be worn.' So, during a visit to India, when Uncle Ho boarded the plane, seated in a private compartment, the security team secretly marked the sandals, preparing a new pair...

The plane landed in New Delhi, and Uncle Ho searched for his sandals. People explained:

'They might have been stored in the cargo hold of the plane... Uncle.'

Uncle Ho knew they hid his sandals. Our country hadn't achieved complete independence, and our people were still facing difficulties. Uncle Ho wore rubber sandals, but inside, he had a new pair of socks, which was more than enough and still polite. So, the security team had to return the sandals for Uncle to wear because the host country was eagerly waiting...During Uncle Ho's time in India, many politicians, journalists, filmmakers... were very interested in Uncle Ho's sandals. They stooped down, touched and adjusted the sandal straps, taking pictures from various angles, jotting down notes... making the security team watch attentively and protect these 'magical sandals.'

In 1960, Uncle Ho visited a unit of the Vietnamese People's Navy. Still, the 'veteran' sandals, Uncle Ho visited the unit's dining area, lodging, and animal husbandry camp. Soldiers crowded around, wanting to get closer to Uncle Ho. Uncle Ho smiled, shaking hands with one, patting another on the shoulder. Suddenly, Uncle Ho stopped:

'Alright, you might step on and loosen my sandal straps...'

Hearing Uncle Ho, everyone stopped, bowed down, silently staring at the sandals, then suddenly became noisy:

'Uncle, I can fix it...'

'Yes, Uncle, I can fix it...'

Seeing that, the security guards just stood and laughed because they knew Uncle Ho's sandals had been hammered and repaired several times...Uncle Ho laughed and said:

'You must bring me to that tree stump; it's a good support for standing! Uncle 'hopped and skipped,' dragging the sandals to the tree stump, one hand holding onto the tree, one foot curled up to remove the sandals:

'Here! Whoever is skilled, fix Uncle's sandals... One man quickly snatched the sandals, raised them, but hesitated, fumbling. The one next to him saw, 'overtook' and ran away...

Uncle urged:

'Oh, there, admire for so long, hurry up so Uncle can continue. The soldier who ran away had come back with a hammer and a few nails. 'Uncle, let me fix your sandals... Everyone else stepped back. In a moment, the sandals were fixed. Unlucky soldiers who didn't get the chance to fix the sandals complained:

'Because Uncle's sandals are too old. Uncle, please change them...'

Uncle looked at the soldiers and said:

'You're right... but only partially right... Uncle's sandals are old but have only lost a strap. You've fixed it securely like this; it can still 'live' for a long time! Buying new sandals isn't worth it yet, and when it's not necessary, we shouldn't... We have to be thrifty because our country is still poor...'

Lesson learned from the story: We learn from Uncle Ho a simple, frugal lifestyle. Despite holding high positions, he remained humble, unassuming, and lived a modest life. Uncle Ho's life is a shining example of virtues: thrifty, humble, upright, dedicated, and selfless. His simple living is a model for us and future generations to follow.

In early 1954, the weather transitioned to spring, but in North Vietnam, the cold lingered. The biting north wind, accompanied by drizzling rain, created a piercing chill. Despite the harsh conditions, Uncle diligently worked into the late hours. Clad in an old padded jacket, occasionally puffing on a cigarette, the rhythmic sound of the typewriter echoed through the night...

Though the weather was frigid, standing guard beside Uncle, I felt my heart warmed. Taking a light stroll around the compound, lost in thought, I accidentally stepped into a pit dug to avoid aircraft. As I tried to find my way out, I heard footsteps approaching. A voice inquired:

- Who fell here?

Before I could identify the person, I felt Uncle's hands reaching under my armpits, his beard brushing against my face. Startled, I noticed Uncle wasn't wearing his padded jacket, just socks on his feet, one with a shoe and the other bare. Tears welled up in my eyes. As he pulled me up, he asked:

- Did you hurt yourself?

Uncle inspected my body, massaging my legs and arms. Then he said:

- Your fall must have been painful. Sit down here; I'll massage your legs to ease the pain. Sit down! Sit down!

Shocked and disbelieving, I couldn't trust my ears. Could Uncle really be saying this? Oh, Uncle! You care so much for us!

I replied to Uncle:

- No, Uncle, I'm fine. I then tried to walk away to put Uncle's mind at ease.

Uncle smiled kindly and advised, 'Be careful with everything you do.' Then he turned away.

I stood there watching Uncle until the sound of his typewriter resumed, tapping away steadily on the wooden floor in the midst of the North Vietnamese night.

Experience Lesson: Ho Chi Minh, the great leader of the nation, had an immeasurable love for the people. His care for the soldiers was akin to that of an elderly father concerned about his children. Despite the freezing weather, when he learned that a soldier had fallen, Uncle rushed over, forgetting to wear his jacket and even neglecting to put on his shoes properly. Uncle's affection for the soldiers made everyone love and cherish the venerable father of the nation even more. This story teaches us the importance of love and care in our lives. Therefore, let's give love and care to others, whether strangers or acquaintances, as you will receive it back manyfold in the future.

During President Ho Chi Minh's visit to China, Mao Zedong suggested: 'Don't worry about fighting the U.S. Let us handle the North; we can send several thousand or even a million troops to defend the North while you focus on the South against the U.S.'

Uncle Ho simply smiled and rejected the proposal. Mao then added: 'In that case, we can provide you with a few thousand trucks to transport weapons to the South!'

Uncle Ho accepted the trucks but made it clear to Mao: 'I'll accept the trucks, but not the drivers. The vehicles will be driven by the Vietnamese military.' Mao was displeased but had to accept because he had already stated it. When returning, an aide asked Uncle why he didn't accept their troops, suggesting it would make it easier for us to fight the U.S.

Uncle Ho chuckled and replied, 'We can accept guns, ammunition, and vehicles; we will repay them later when the country is unified and prosperous. We'll repay in money. But if we accept lives, can we repay that with money?'

Profound Lesson from Uncle Ho: In any situation, the key to building the foundation for peace lies in the leadership's approach. Knowing when to say no, how to refuse, and understanding what to accept are crucial skills for leaders.

During the early days of the resistance against the French, there was a comrade officer known for frequently scolding soldiers. This comrade, who used to work in traffic control and protect Uncle Ho during his foreign travels before the August Revolution, received complaints from the people. One day, Uncle Ho summoned him to the North.

Upon arrival, despite the scorching sun, Uncle Ho had arranged for a meeting at noon. The comrade, sweating profusely and feeling like he was on fire, was offered two cups of water on the table – one with hot water still steaming and the other with cold water.

After the greetings, Uncle Ho pointed to the hot water and said:

'You drink this.'

The comrade exclaimed:

'Heavens! In this heat, how can I drink hot water, Uncle?'

Uncle Ho smiled and said:

'Ah, I see. So, you prefer cold water, something cool?'

'Yes, Uncle.'

With a serious expression, Uncle Ho stated:

'Hot water, neither you nor I can drink. When you're hot, neither your soldiers nor I can absorb it. Being calm and composed is like drinking cold water – easier to consume and absorb. Understanding Uncle Ho's educational intent, the comrade officer admitted his mistake and promised to correct his behavior.

Experience Lesson: This story illustrates Uncle Ho's concern for human resource management, providing a profound lesson in psychology and thoughtful, clever, and subtle conduct for all of us. When angry, it's easy to lose self-control. In anger, we may act without thinking about the consequences or make decisions without much foresight, saying things that shouldn't be said—all to satisfy the momentary rage. Worse, due to anger, we might unintentionally harm those around us, leaving a negative impression in their memories. Therefore, in any situation, remain calm, handle the situation wisely for the best outcome. Think carefully before taking action.

During a visit to Thailand, Uncle Ho received a group of Thai children who came to visit him. Each child wanted to stand next to Uncle Ho, causing a chaotic scramble. To restore order, Uncle Ho came up with an idea and asked the children:

- Do you see me as thin or fat?

The children replied:

- You're very thin, Uncle.

Uncle Ho asked again:

- So, do you want me to be thin?

All the children replied in unison:

- No, Uncle.

Uncle Ho continued:

- Then, don't push and shove to kiss me. Choose one representative to do it.

After Uncle Ho's words, everything calmed down, and the team captain was selected to represent everyone in kissing Uncle Ho. Uncle Ho hugged and thanked the Thai children. The guards also thanked Uncle Ho for maintaining order while preserving the affection of the Thai children for Uncle Ho.

Hearing about Uncle Ho's visit to a children's school in the South, the teachers eagerly prepared, decorating the auditorium to welcome Uncle Ho.

Upon Uncle Ho's arrival, everyone rushed out to greet him, leading Uncle Ho to the hall that had been adorned with flags and flowers. However, Uncle Ho suggested being guided to the kitchen and bedrooms first to ensure the children were well-fed, sleeping warmly, and receiving proper care. Afterward, Uncle Ho took out a large bag of candies, distributing them evenly among the children. While observing the children enjoying the sweets, Uncle Ho suddenly noticed one child standing in a corner with a sad expression. He called out:

- What's your name, little one? Why are you standing here?

- My name is Tộ. Because I made a mistake, my hands were dirty, and I didn't wash them, so the teachers punished me, not allowing me to receive your candies, Uncle.

Uncle Ho chuckled and told Tộ to wash his hands, then shared candies with him. Afterward, Uncle Ho imparted a lesson:

- From now on, you must always keep your hands clean. A person's hands are very precious.

Tộ was deeply moved by Uncle Ho's caring gesture. Since then, he always kept his hands clean and washed them before eating.

Prior to designing Uncle Ho's wooden house at the Presidential Palace (the upper floor with two rooms, one for work and one for rest, and the lower floor for meetings and receptions), Uncle Ho had a suggestion:

- I have many guests, and sometimes I need to welcome a large number of children. So, please design a row of cement seats around for me.

Following Uncle Ho's request, the comrades designed the seating. Each time the children visited, they gathered around Uncle Ho, and he would share candies with them.

One day, Uncle Ho said to the helper:

- Look, there are quite a few 'tiny' guests of mine. To make the children happy, there should be a scene for them to enjoy. Try to find an aquarium to keep goldfish as a scenic element for the children.

Following Uncle Ho's instructions, the helper found and placed an aquarium in the corridor on the lower floor of the wooden house, releasing three beautiful goldfish. Every day, after work hours, Uncle Ho would feed the goldfish, saving bits of bread to feed them. Under Uncle Ho's care, the three goldfish grew larger and thrived.

In the cold winter, Uncle Ho said:

- Fish, like people, need to maintain a warm temperature in winter. You should make a cover for the fish tank to ensure warmth for the fish.

Visitors to Uncle Ho's house, especially the 'tiny guests,' loved standing and admiring the goldfish tank. The colorful fish swam playfully in the water, creating a dazzling and lively spectacle.

On February 7, 1958, over 3,000 Indian children staged a vibrant performance to welcome Uncle Ho.

The children cheered enthusiastically: ''Father, Uncle Ho (Uncle Ho). Prime Minister Nehru, sitting next to Uncle Ho, happily remarked:

- You are my adorable adversary because they call you Uncle.

In India, the children only address Nehru as Uncle, and Uncle Ho is the second person they call Uncle.

The atmosphere that day was as joyful as a festival. The children rushed forward to offer flowers; some gave Uncle Ho two candies. A blind child, with both eyes closed, was embraced by Uncle Ho, who touched his beard and cheeks, then hugged him tenderly. Everyone was moved by such heartfelt connections.

During festive occasions, some comrades 'communal dining, individual bedding' stayed back to guard the office. On the first day of the lunar new year (1956), letting others return to their hometowns, I stayed back to protect the office. Around 9 a.m., when everyone was joyfully visiting friends and family, Uncle Ho arrived.

Seeing the quiet, empty house with only me sitting at the table, Uncle Ho presented me a Chung cake, a pack of candy, and wished me a happy New Year. Then, he asked:

- What are you writing on the first day of the new year?

- Well, Uncle, I am working on the annual report summarizing the activities of 1955 for the team.

Uncle Ho praised:

- You comrades are truly industrious, hardworking, and endure hardships throughout the year. On stormy nights with roaring winds and freezing cold, I sleep on the roof, and you all have to stay up all night in the garden. Even during Tet, you have to work.

Continuing, Uncle Ho said:

- Write a short report. The conclusion should be: the entire team devotedly protected the Central Party and Government, ensuring their safety. Don't say: protecting President Ho because within the Central Party and Government, there are enough people.

Uncle Ho held my hand:

- Come over and tidy up the house for Uncle.

Uncle Ho assigned me to wash the teapot and cups while he cleaned the table, chairs, and arranged flowers to welcome comrades from the Politburo for New Year's wishes. That Tet, I was the happiest person.

Through this essay, the harmony and simplicity of Uncle Ho with the soldiers protecting him are vividly demonstrated.

Lesson learned:

• Always be harmonious with everyone, regardless of rank or position.
• Always be grateful and thankful to those who protect and care for you.
• Always care about others, without distinguishing rank or position.

In early 1967, Uncle Ho visited Thái Bình province. The children of Dân Chủ village echoed the song 'Liberate the South' to welcome Uncle Ho. Uncle Ho asked:

- Are you children well-behaved?

- Yes, Uncle, we are!

- Do you obey your parents?

- Yes, Uncle, we do!

- Is your eating area clean?

- Yes, Uncle, it is!

- Let me see your hands.

They extended their cute hands in front of Uncle Ho. Uncle Ho nodded in great satisfaction, seeing the lives of these rural children gradually improving. The children were indeed clean and well-behaved. Uncle Ho shared candies with them and continued his journey.

While living in Viet Bac, whenever Uncle Ho went on a mission, two comrades accompanied him. Fearing that Uncle Ho might get tired, the two comrades decided to carry one backpack for him, but Uncle Ho said:

- Walking through the forest, climbing mountains, everyone gets tired. Concentrate the belongings for one person to carry, it's faster. Divide it so each person carries a little.

When everything was divided into three backpacks, Uncle Ho asked further:

- Have you divided it evenly? The two comrades replied:

- Yes, Uncle.

The three set off, after a while, they stopped, Uncle Ho went to the comrade's side, lifted the backpack.

- Why is your backpack heavy and mine is light?

Then, Uncle Ho opened all three backpacks to see, found that Uncle Ho's backpack was the lightest, only with a blanket and a mosquito net. Uncle Ho disagreed and said:

- Only true labor brings happiness to human beings.

The other two comrades had to redistribute everything into the three backpacks.

Experience lesson:

• Always the same, Uncle Ho didn't want to be a leader, he just wanted to be a servant of the people. Uncle Ho always wanted to be equal to everyone around him. Throughout his life for the people, for the country, President Ho Chi Minh almost forgot what belonged to himself. Uncle Ho did not demand any special rights for himself but always cared for the smallest, most humble things of the people, including officials and soldiers. Uncle Ho once confided: 'It's easy to create authority for an official, but it's difficult to build trust.'
• Uncle Ho has set a shining example not only for our nation, for humanity, for today, tomorrow, and forever. That is, for others and for oneself. We need to share together in difficult times, not rely on high positions to oppress the weak. Live fairly with the people!