1. Writing for Those Who Hold the Chalk


2. Written for November
November has arrived once again!
This is the month filled with significance for students of all ages, and for those in the field of education, especially those who stand at the front of the classroom every day and are called ‘Teacher’ by their students. No matter how society changes or what challenges come our way, those two words, spoken with respect and affection, will always carry profound meaning in the hearts of educators. The teaching profession has always been revered, though it now faces many challenges and unfortunate silences. Yet, for me, the nobility of the profession still resonates deeply.
Teaching, to me, feels like destiny, not obligation! More than six years of standing at the front of the classroom have been a beautiful and memorable time. Though teaching was never my childhood dream, various circumstances led me to this path. Over time, the title of ‘Teacher’ quietly settled into my heart, shaping my spirit as the profession slowly transformed me. Six years may seem short in the grand scheme of a career, but to me, those years will forever live on in my memories. Sweet memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life, never to be forgotten!
Now, I have left teaching behind. Perhaps this is a permanent farewell. Life’s daily struggles have pulled me into the whirlwind of survival, slowly eroding the peaceful spirit I once had. When I look back at those six years, I find myself longing for the quiet, loving corner of my soul that teaching once provided. Occasionally, I meet old students or familiar parents, or even shopkeepers I once knew. They still call me ‘Teacher.’ Hearing that word now fills me with a deep, indescribable sadness. Back when I was teaching, I had moments of frustration with the profession, but these feelings were mostly directed at its flaws and challenges, not at the students themselves. I never held resentment or helplessness toward struggling students or those who misbehaved, because I had once been in their shoes. I understood that not everyone is born with equal ability, and much of a person’s character is shaped by family education, school influence, and the social environment, especially during the student years. Everyone has the potential for goodness, and it’s the role of teachers to nurture that. There were rare instances when a student rebelled against my methods, but eventually, they would sincerely apologize in their own way, and I never held a grudge. There were times when I lost my temper with students, but I never hated any of them. I believe my students never feared me, but I could feel their love for me in return.
In my view of education, the success of a teacher is not measured by the grades or achievements of their students. True success is seen in how students conduct themselves after reaching those goals—how they treat themselves, their teachers, their families, and society. After graduation, whether they succeed or fail in life, it’s how they remember their teacher that matters. Success or failure now fades behind a sea of reflections and nostalgic memories.
November has arrived!
Across the nation, the education sector is once again filled with a joyful atmosphere. Students express their respect and gratitude to their teachers through their actions, striving to excel in their studies and personal development. Teachers, in turn, feel proud and happy in this month, with the 20th being a day set aside by society to honor the noble profession of teaching. I can’t help but recall the vibrant activities of my teaching days—singing, making bulletin boards, and celebrating with students. I remember songs sung to praise teachers during this time: 'The teacher walks quietly back and forth through rain and shine...,' 'The teacher speaks of the moon in ancient folk songs...,' 'A bright star shines, lighting up my dreams...' The memories of those November days stir my heart, reminding me of the profession I loved, my students, and the sound of ‘Teacher’ echoing in my memories!
Luu Minh Hai


3. The Silent Boatman
'To cross over, build a bridge; to gain knowledge, love your teacher.'
'Without a teacher, you cannot succeed.'
From ancient times, our ancestors have recognized the noble value of being a teacher. Former Prime Minister Pham Van Dong once said: 'Teaching is the most honorable profession among all honorable professions.' Across both Eastern and Western cultures, past and present, the teaching profession is seen as one that 'nurtures life,' 'shapes people,' or 'guides the way.' The teacher is known as the 'boatman' who ferries students to their futures.
President Ho Chi Minh also gifted the Vietnamese education system with a motto that embodies the noble responsibility of being a teacher:
'For the benefit of ten years, plant trees; for the benefit of a hundred years, cultivate people.'
Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge, but also about shaping character, instilling virtues, and fostering the qualities of goodness, truth, and beauty in life. To educate a person is to provide not only solid knowledge but also a foundation in human relationships, life skills, and values. Teachers are the ones who help create all other professions in the world.
The teaching profession and the role of the teacher are a lifelong journey of 'growing people'—those 'engineers of the soul.' The path of awakening hearts and lighting them with knowledge is fraught with challenges but is equally glorious.
The work of teachers is often quiet yet profoundly meaningful. Teachers pass on human knowledge to successive generations of students, giving their hearts and minds to each lesson as part of a mission to educate 'talents' who will become the 'national lifeblood,' helping build a strong and enduring nation.
Teachers live simply and humbly, embodying purity and wisdom, serving as shining examples for students to follow. The noble hearts, the pure souls, and the integrity of teachers are never swayed by wealth or fame. They are not only inspiration for those who seek knowledge but also the heroes of everyday life, like legendary figures whose stories are written in the fabric of our world.
When we open our eyes to the light of life and begin our journey to understand the world, to realize our dreams, and to face life's challenges, knowledge and wisdom become our essential tools. Teachers are the silent boatmen who carry us across to the bright future that awaits.
There is no road to success that does not require hard work, perseverance, and resilience, full of obstacles, hardships, and moments of both success and failure. Throughout this journey, teachers have always been there, encouraging us, keeping the flame of hope and knowledge alive, guiding each student across the river of learning with their boat of wisdom. Thanks to this boat of knowledge, we can grow and reach the vast ocean.
Time never stops, and humanity continues to evolve, seeking new ways to improve life. Yet teachers—the silent boatmen—remain steadfast in their selfless devotion, contributing without expecting anything in return.
The Vietnamese tradition of 'respecting teachers and valuing their wisdom' has been deeply ingrained in our culture for centuries. Despite the challenges of history, this tradition remains a vital part of Vietnamese identity, passed down through generations. It is not only on Teachers' Day, November 20th, that we honor teachers, but this respect is also shown to our parents and elders: 'Gratitude for fathers, mothers, and teachers.'
Hoai Huong


4. Reflections on Vietnam's Teacher's Day
November. Early winter. The air is cool, with soft golden rays of sunlight lingering from late autumn. A thin veil of clouds hangs gently in the sky, and a soft breeze stirs the air. The leaves are no longer green, and the clouds drift no more. November arrives, and my heart stirs with thoughts of an important day, especially for students—the Vietnam Teacher's Day on November 20th.
Teachers! Two words that are so familiar yet deeply sacred. These are the people who quietly sacrifice, worry, and care for us every day. They may not be our flesh and blood, but they treat us as their own. They stay up late, rise early, and tirelessly prepare lessons to help us learn and grow. Not only do they teach knowledge, but they also impart life lessons, guiding us to become better people. I can still remember the words of my first-grade teacher when I began my school journey: 'First learn manners, then learn literature.' She taught us that we must understand right from wrong before we can learn anything else. I vividly recall how she gently held my hand, carefully guiding me to write each letter, patiently correcting our mistakes, and grading our papers. I remember my teacher's patience as he explained lessons, repeating them until the whole class understood. Even during exam preparations, teachers were always there to encourage and comfort us. When we made mistakes, they never scolded us but gently advised us. Those words of advice still resonate deeply within me.
'Father's rice, mother's clothes, teacher's wisdom.
How could we repay those years of longing?'
In life, the three most important things we must always remember and be grateful for are 'father's work, mother's kindness, and the teacher's wisdom.' Parents gave us life, taught us to speak and laugh, and helped us take our first steps. Teachers, on the other hand, guided us to grow, prepared us for life, and supported us every step of the way. 'Teachers!' These two words are so familiar yet so sacred, evoking feelings of emotion every time they are spoken. No matter where we are or how we change, we will always carry the memory of our teachers. As we approach Vietnam's Teacher's Day on November 20th, I want to wish all teachers a joyful, happy day, filled with love for every student they teach.
Author: Hong Phuong


5. Remembering the Flowers We Gave Our Teachers
On a calm November morning, the soft golden sunlight shined gently, while the chill in the air was just enough to remind us that winter was near. It takes me back to my childhood when I was a student in a rural village, back in the days when parents sometimes wished their children would stop going to school to help with farm work.
It was the middle of winter, when the cold would creep into every corner, yet we were all excited because Teacher's Day was coming. Our excitement wasn't only because we loved our teachers, but also because, in our innocent minds, we couldn't wait for a day spent running around with our friends, exchanging colorful bouquets, proudly carrying our handmade flowers to our teachers’ homes.
Aside from the flowers, we never gave our teachers any gifts. No one had told us to do so. Our parents were too busy with the daily grind to think about anything else. Even if we had money, in our poor village, there was no place to buy anything to give as gifts to our teachers.
The flowers we gave were anything but perfect. We didn’t buy them from stores, as there were no flower shops around. Before Teacher’s Day, we’d tell each other to gather whatever flowers we could find. It didn’t matter what kind of flowers—they simply had to be flowers.
On the morning of November 20th, we’d gather at one of our friends' houses. Each of us would bring a few flowers from our gardens or pick them along the way to school. Sometimes, one of us would even sneak flowers from a neighbor’s yard or gather them from the elderly’s gardens in the village.
Our bouquets were a mix of every flower imaginable: the bright yellow marigolds, fragrant roses with velvety petals, tiny purple chrysanthemums, and even fiery red rooster comb flowers that looked like the crest of a rooster.
There were even a few white lilies tucked into our haphazard bouquets... and to this day, whenever I remember them, my eyes still grow misty.
We thought our bouquets were the most beautiful things in the world. I cherished those flowers as much as my friends did. We competed with each other to hold the best bouquet. We’d pass the flowers along the way to make sure everyone got a turn to carry them. Barefoot and in torn clothes, we happily marched to our teachers' houses, our faces lit up like we were going to a celebration.
When the teachers saw us coming, they greeted us with smiles and joy. They received our bouquets with warmth, never showing any discomfort at the simplicity of our gifts, and they accepted them with the same affection as if they were precious treasures.
My teacher, though poor, kept a tidy home. She would pull up chairs for us to sit, offering us bananas, knowing we’d arrive. She’d ask us how things were at home, and sometimes, I’d see her eyes glisten with emotion for just a moment, only to brighten again with her ever-warm smile.
Today, students still visit me on Teacher's Day, offering carefully arranged bouquets. Each time I receive one, I am touched, and I can’t help but think of the wild, imperfect flowers we once gave our teachers.
Now, my teachers are old. Some have passed away... but the memories of the teacher-student bond from those difficult times will forever remain in the hearts of people like me.
- Collected -


6. Reflections on Vietnam's Teacher's Day 20-11
Every time November rolls around, when the day arrives to remind students to honor their teachers, memories of my school days flood back. I remember the words of advice, the gentle pats on the back, and even the stern reprimands from teachers when we made mistakes.
Teachers are the ones who give all their love to their students, even to those who frustrate them, shout at them, and sometimes get sent out of the classroom or even suspended for a week.
Teachers are the ones who endure countless mischiefs caused by their students, often becoming the saviors of those who are bullied. They can be thought of as role models, second fathers, or second mothers to their students.
Teachers are the ones who teach us to write our first letters. As we grow older, we begin to understand the kindness in their actions, such as when they patiently guided our hands, teaching us how to form each letter. Their goal wasn’t just to teach us how to write, but to shape our character from those first strokes of A, B, and C. They are the ones who stay up all night, grading papers and reflecting on their students’ work, pouring all their knowledge and life experience into their feedback. Everything a teacher does is for one purpose: to help their students grow and become better.
Who doesn’t remember the 20th of November from their childhood? I think we all went through the phase where we insisted our mothers buy gifts for our teachers. But it wasn’t easy. We couldn’t go alone; we always needed our mothers to accompany us. At that age, we didn’t know how to express ourselves properly, but we just wanted to do what our friends were doing. Back then, gifts for Teacher’s Day were simple—shampoo, monosodium glutamate, milk, a notebook, or pens. For families who could afford it, they would buy fabric for the teachers to make clothes. As we grew older, we learned how to buy gifts ourselves, but the nervousness remained. When the time came to give the gift, I would quickly hand it to the teacher and mumble, “Happy Teacher’s Day,” before running away, leaving the teacher to call me back and invite me to sit. But after just five minutes, I would excuse myself again. The next day, I still couldn’t face the teacher.
As I grew older and reached high school, I started to see November 20th as a more relaxing day for students. Usually, teachers would ease up and not quiz us on our lessons. Students didn’t have to worry about the usual spot-checks. Sometimes, we would chat with the teachers, and class would even be canceled. After the class representative presented flowers to the teachers, the day would be over. But it wasn’t just the flowers or gifts that made the teachers happy. It was the fact that they could see their students growing and maturing, and that their hard work and dedication had paid off. There’s nothing that makes a teacher prouder than seeing their students succeed.
I don’t know what your 20th of November is like, but for me, it’s always a day full of emotions. Even though I work far away and can’t visit my teachers, I always feel that they haven’t forgotten me. When I call them, before I even say my name, they recognize my voice. I feel so happy, sometimes even moved to tears. Even though I was once the most mischievous student in the class, they still remember me and ask, “How’s the troublemaker from our class? Where are you working now? You must come visit me next year!” After so many years and so many students, teachers still remember each one of us. This is proof of how much they truly care for their students, even if they are strict at times. It’s all because they want what’s best for us. I think anyone who has had a teacher like this can feel it. Without their guidance, would we be where we are today, reading these words?
As I sit here writing, I remember all the mischiefs I caused my teachers... How could I have done those things? But as the saying goes, “First comes the devil, second comes the demon, and third comes the student.” No matter what, I hope that on this Teacher’s Day, if you can, take some time to visit your teachers. They will never forget you. And if you can’t visit, just a five- or ten-minute phone call will mean the world to them. Please don’t just post a quick message on social media, saying, “Happy Teacher’s Day, hope you have a wonderful day,” and leave it at that.
Thank you to all the teachers who have guided me from the very first days of learning manners and studying literature. All the love, respect, and gratitude I feel for you are my way of honoring everything you’ve done to help me become who I am today. I wish all teachers good health and happiness so that you can continue shaping the lives of future generations.
Vũ Nguyễn


7. Sweet Memories
I have a deep affection for the 20th of November, for those fleeting yet vibrant years of student life filled with dreams and aspirations. It was a time when I lived fully, worked hard, and poured my youthful energy and passion into everything I did. Those years, marked by countless joys and sorrows shared with friends, always bring back sweet memories of Vietnam's Teacher's Day.
When I first entered Hanoi University of Education, I was shy and withdrawn, keeping to myself. I didn't know anyone, didn’t socialize much, just quietly made my way to classes like a turtle in its shell. On Teacher's Day that year, a friend from Hue University of Education sent me a card and a few packs of chewing gum to help me “chew through” the loneliness of staying home. The festive atmosphere around the school, filled with excitement for weeks, didn’t quite have the same pull on me.
In the first year, on the evening of the 20th of November, my neighbors were busy celebrating, chatting, and laughing, making it impossible for me to study or rest. So, I decided to take my roommate for a walk. We were just about to enjoy some street tea when we were joined by a few of my female classmates. We ordered nine cups of tea, and quickly realized neither of us had any money on us. I had to call for another round while my roommate ran back for cash. Luckily, by the time we got our second round, everyone had mostly lost interest in drinking, and I nervously waited for him to return. After what felt like ages, the tea vendor was ready to close up. The girls decided to leave, but I kept talking to delay their departure, making up stories on the spot. Just as I was about to lose hope, my friend arrived, and everyone burst into laughter, while the vendor smiled, giving us a discount. To this day, I keep the one-thousand-dong note as a memento of that night.
In my second year, I recall the 20th of November being exceptionally cold, but the chill didn’t compare to the hunger I was feeling after almost a week of eating only sticky rice, unable to afford regular rice or other food. Fortunately, I had brought some rice from home. I had so many friends studying at the education department, and nearly ten of them were especially close to me. On top of that, the girls in the neighboring dorm invited me to a party that evening. Desperate, I decided to pawn my most valuable possession—my bicycle. It was the first time I’d ever pawned something, and I was so embarrassed that I didn’t want to go to the shops near Cầu Giấy in case someone saw me. Instead, I rode all the way to Khâm Thiên. While I was negotiating, I was startled by a familiar voice—it was P., a close friend from the Tourism Department. She insisted I take the bike back and gave me some money. I spent the night thinking about my predicament, wandering the streets until late, and eventually bought a bundle of flowers, almost as if I was giving them away instead of presenting them as gifts. When I handed them to my friends, I said, 'Happy 20th November' and hurried off. The next day, some of them even joked that I had the most unique way of giving flowers.
By my third year, most of my close friends had partners, and they went out early to celebrate. I decided not to visit them, and instead wandered around on my own. Later, I sat by Hồ Thủ Lệ, deep in thought, when suddenly a pile of scrap paper fell on me along with the laughter of my girls: 'Happy 20th November, boss!' The members of the Youth Volunteer Club from Cầu Giấy District, whom I managed, appeared with flowers and snacks, organizing a little celebration right there. The party lasted until 11 PM, and I had to drop each of them off at home, explaining to their parents. Thankfully, all their parents were understanding, and there were no issues. But when I finally dropped the last one off at midnight, I was greeted by her parents, who were waiting by the gate. Her mother scolded me loudly, while her father stared at me as if I were a criminal. I awkwardly tried to explain myself until he finally called for calm and revealed he was also a teacher. The tension dissolved, and we all parted on friendly terms. I breathed a sigh of relief as I left, feeling thankful for their understanding.
Time passed quickly, and those years of student life slipped away. The 20th of November celebrations during my university years are memories I’ll always treasure. Now, as a teacher myself, those experiences drive me to do better, to embrace my profession even more, and to be the best teacher I can be.
Hoàng Trọng Muôn


8. Endless Chalk Dust
November has already passed its midpoint. The cool autumn breeze gradually gives way to the early chill of winter creeping in from every corner. The golden warmth of the sun is no longer present; instead, the sky seems to lower, and the sunlight becomes more restrained, like a soft, quiet touch. The atmosphere invites people to draw closer to share the warmth of life...
And in this calm, quiet space, the gentle, heartfelt melodies of the song 'Dust of Chalk' fill the air—a song so familiar to anyone who has ever sat in a classroom. The lyrics are simple but full of emotion:
'When the teacher writes on the board/Chalk dust falls, falls/Are there any dust particles/On the teacher's desk/Are there any dust particles/In the teacher's hair...'
This song always takes me back in time, to the innocent days of childhood when we were carefree and pure. Every year, on Teacher's Day, this song would fill the school's stage during the celebration. The more we listened, the deeper we would be immersed in the vast ocean of love and protection from our teachers. The image of the teacher, with gray hair, always tirelessly sharing knowledge and helping us soar in life, remains vivid in our hearts, no matter where we go or how far we travel.
In every life, while parents are the ones who gave us life and nurtured us, it is our teachers who guided us to read and write, to understand right from wrong, to know how to be kind and respectful. Teachers are often compared to the boatmen who tirelessly row us across the river of knowledge, helping generations of students reach the other shore—the shore of wisdom. They are the 'ones who carry us across to the other side, bringing our dreams to life.'
In my own military career, I too have had the privilege of sitting in the classrooms of military academies. Here, the teacher’s role differs from that outside because they carry both the honor and responsibility of being a 'Teacher-Soldier'—a beautiful and deeply cherished figure in the hearts of many cadets.
Teachers in military uniforms, with the dust of chalk on their sleeves, remain dedicated to their dual roles, giving their all to both the armed forces and education. Their commitment is truly admirable.
Day after day, teachers stand at the front of the class, passionately imparting knowledge and experience to the next generation. Both teacher and student share the same discipline as soldiers, which adds an extra layer of rigor and depth to each lesson. Every class becomes a world of knowledge, and the teacher’s voice, full of camaraderie and warmth, inspires the students to reach higher and dream bigger. Many cadets have grown from these academies, their roots firm in the knowledge imparted here, and their contributions to the military and society have been invaluable. Graduates have gone on to serve in various sectors, excelling in their careers, and building a stronger military for the nation.
All of this highlights the immense contribution of teachers, especially those in military education. Their impact is immeasurable, and their efforts deserve our deepest gratitude. The hard work we put in, striving for excellence in life and work, is the best way to show our appreciation for the love and hope our teachers have invested in us.
And the image of chalk dust falling on the teacher's desk, resting on their hair, will forever remain etched in our hearts...
Mạnh Thường


