1. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 4
In the vast treasury of Vietnamese proverbs, there are many that teach us to live with gratitude. One of the most significant is the proverb: 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.' This saying imparts a profound lesson about appreciation and gratitude. So, what does 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' truly mean? The proverb contains two layers of meaning. The first is its literal interpretation: 'eating fruit' refers to the act of consuming what is available, and 'the one who planted the tree' is the person who cultivated and cared for the tree that bears fruit. While enjoying the fruit, we are encouraged to think of the labor and care that went into producing it. However, the proverb carries a deeper, more symbolic message. 'Eating fruit' suggests benefiting from the work of others, while 'the one who planted the tree' refers to those who produce something for others to enjoy. This proverb teaches us that when we reap the rewards of someone else's hard work, we should remember and show gratitude to those who made it possible, rather than forget them or act ungratefully.
Why should gratitude be an essential part of life? It is clear that nothing in nature or society exists without origin. Everything in the world is interconnected and interdependent. For instance, trees grow thanks to the soil, and the soil is enriched by the trees. Therefore, gratitude is a way for us to support and help one another. It is a noble action that has been passed down through generations. Gratitude is born from appreciating the effort others put in, and it forms the solid foundation of a compassionate, unified society. Without gratitude, living selfishly and ungratefully would lead to bitterness, selfishness, and exploitation of family and society.
There are numerous ways to show gratitude and indebtedness in life, as the proverb suggests. A grateful person will always respect and appreciate those who make it possible for them to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Students show gratitude to their teachers by studying hard, following their guidance, and striving for excellence. Children show love for their parents by helping with household chores, which is a simple but meaningful expression of gratitude. We also remember the sacrifices of our ancestors by honoring them during special occasions like festivals, holidays, and anniversaries. The people should also honor the heroes and martyrs who fought and died to protect the nation, as they are the ones who have ensured our prosperity. Whether in the past or present, our ancestors have used this proverb to teach us the importance of remembering our roots and showing gratitude. Living by these principles will earn us the love and respect of others.
Along with 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree,' many other proverbs emphasize the value of gratitude, such as:
'Drink water, remember the source.'
Or:
'Child, remember this advice: the father's work, the mother's love, the teacher's kindness, never forget.'
We all need to properly understand and preserve this tradition of gratitude within our culture. At the same time, we must criticize and condemn those who forget their debts of gratitude, who are selfish and only care about their own interests.
In conclusion, the proverb teaches us about the virtues of gratitude and indebtedness. This noble principle is part of the beautiful cultural heritage of Vietnam and Asia, and it serves as the foundation for many other virtuous qualities in people.


2. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 5
Gratitude has always been a cornerstone of our culture. Our ancestors consistently reminded us to live with loyalty and to never forget those who have done us a favor. This timeless value is clearly reflected in the proverb: 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.' This proverb carries a deep moral lesson: as we enjoy the sweet fruits of our labor, we must not forget the hard work that brought them to us. In a broader sense, it reminds us that we should always be thankful for those who provide us with the comforts and happiness we enjoy today.
Why is this important? Because everything we enjoy, from material wealth to spiritual benefits, has a foundation built by the hard work and sacrifices of others. The food we eat is the result of tireless labor from farmers who endure harsh conditions to grow it. The clothes we wear, the homes we live in, and the daily items we use all come from the dedicated work of craftsmen and workers. The cultural and artistic achievements, as well as the heritage passed down to us, are the products of creative minds and labor. There are countless other monumental works that our ancestors created for the benefit of future generations.
We, as the beneficiaries of these achievements, cannot afford to forget or ignore the efforts of those who made them possible. After centuries of oppression, we must recognize the sacrifices of those who fought and died to secure our independence and freedom. Their contributions have shaped the world we live in today, and we cannot overlook the great sacrifices they made.
Gratitude is not only a moral duty but also a responsibility we bear in life. However, gratitude is not just a matter of words; it must be demonstrated through concrete actions. Our government has established many programs to honor those who have contributed to our society, such as building homes for war heroes and their families. These acts of remembrance are not only a way to express gratitude but also serve as practical lessons in morality for our people.
Therefore, it is essential that we not only appreciate the fruits of the past but also actively contribute to the future. We are both the 'fruit eaters' of today and the 'tree planters' for tomorrow. In this sense, we must recognize that our parents and teachers are the ones who 'plant the trees' for us, and we are the beneficiaries of their efforts. By fulfilling our responsibilities as children and students, we show deep gratitude to those who have cared for and nurtured us. This is an essential part of our development as individuals in today's society.
In conclusion, this proverb teaches us the value of living with gratitude. It reminds us to respect and honor those who have helped create the opportunities we enjoy. Gratitude is a valuable lesson, and the proverb 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' holds great significance and relevance in our lives.


3. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 6
Gratitude toward our ancestors has become a deeply sacred feeling ingrained in the consciousness of every Vietnamese person. Our rich folklore is filled with proverbs that highlight this cherished tradition. One such proverb is: 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.'
The proverb reminds us to always be mindful of the hard work behind the fruits we enjoy. When we savor the sweet taste of a ripe fruit, we must think of the person who planted the tree, nurtured it, and carefully tended it until it bore fruit. This simple image serves as a broader reminder: those who enjoy the results of labor must never forget the laborers who made it possible. In other words, we must honor those who have contributed to the good life we have today.
But why must we remember the one who planted the tree? To produce a single fruit, the grower endures great effort and hardship: from planting seeds, tending to them, protecting them from harsh weather, to harvesting and preserving the fruit. The labor, sweat, and patience involved are considerable. Similarly, we must acknowledge those who have created the achievements we benefit from today. Parents work tirelessly to provide food and necessities. Workers dedicate their time and energy to make clothes, homes, and other essential items. Even the cleanliness of the streets is maintained by hard-working laborers.
How can we show gratitude for the proverb 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree'? First, we need to genuinely appreciate those who have created the blessings we enjoy. We must also cherish those valuable results. For example, we should avoid wasting food, and always use resources like electricity and water wisely. Most importantly, we should demonstrate our gratitude through actions, such as being obedient and respectful to our parents and offering help when possible. Likewise, we should treat the laborers in society with respect and appreciation.
In addition to this proverb, there are many others with similar messages: 'When eating sweet potatoes, remember the one who planted the vine,' and 'Drink water, remember the source.' All of these reflect a deeply ingrained tradition of gratitude, passed down from our ancestors. It is now up to our generation to continue to uphold and promote these values.


4. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 7
Patriotism, filial piety, loyalty, and gratitude are all noble feelings that should be preserved by every individual. Gratitude, in particular, has been a long-standing tradition in Vietnamese culture. This moral value is vividly expressed in the proverb 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.'
This proverb serves as a moral lesson for all of us. Literally, it speaks to the gratitude of the one who grows the tree toward those who enjoy the fruits. When we savor the sweet fruits, we should always remember the effort and care that went into nurturing them. Beyond the literal meaning, this proverb encourages us to reflect on gratitude in life: we must always appreciate the workers and those who contribute to creating the fruits of our labor. In other words, we must express our thanks to those who have made it possible for us to live in comfort and happiness.
The proverb implicitly advises us to show gratitude in our everyday lives. But why should we remember 'the one who planted the tree' when we 'eat the fruit'? Because the things we enjoy today have not come by chance. They are the result of the hard work and contributions—both material and spiritual—of individuals and groups. We were born, raised, and provided with fundamental human rights and the opportunity to grow, all thanks to the nurturing efforts of our parents. At school, we gain knowledge and expand our minds, thanks to the dedication of our teachers, the ones who guide us toward wisdom. And this extends to many other people in society.
Doctors work tirelessly to care for our health. Workers and engineers are laboring day and night to produce goods for the benefit of all. Janitors clean and maintain our environment, ensuring we live in a clean, healthy space. Soldiers guard our nation, protecting our freedom and independence. These individuals, though ordinary in daily life, perform extraordinary duties. They give their intellect, health, and spirit for the prosperity of the nation. We must remember them and show our appreciation, for they represent the cultural traditions and values that are integral to the Vietnamese people.
There are many ways we can express our gratitude: honoring the heroes and martyrs who have sacrificed for the country, such as on July 27 each year. A simple act, like lighting incense or offering a flower to commemorate the fallen, is a way to show respect. The government has also enacted policies to honor those who have contributed to the nation. February 27 is recognized as Vietnamese Doctors' Day, a day to acknowledge the compassionate and selfless work of our healthcare professionals. On November 20, we celebrate Teachers' Day to honor educators who dedicate their hearts and minds to imparting knowledge. December 22 is Armed Forces Day, a time to express thanks to those protecting the homeland. March 8 and October 20 are dedicated to honoring Vietnamese women—mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and daughters—who dedicate their lives as the backbone of families. There are many more people and actions that go unrecognized, and we should find ways to show our gratitude on ordinary days to these extraordinary individuals.
The proverb 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' offers an invaluable lesson to all. As students and future generations of this country, we should remind each other to preserve and promote these cherished traditions, turning them into an essential aspect of Vietnamese spiritual life.


5. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 8
One long-standing and cherished tradition is the concept of 'When drinking water, remember its source; when eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.' This principle has awakened many people to the importance of gratitude and how they respond to those who have contributed to their well-being.
This proverb offers valuable lessons to our people, teaching us to appreciate those who create the fruits we enjoy, particularly the individuals who plant and nurture trees to provide us with these fruits. We must show gratitude and work to preserve and enhance this tradition. The effort of those who grow trees to bear fruit for our benefit should be acknowledged and celebrated. This tradition brings great value and meaning, and it is crucial that we continue to cultivate it in a vibrant and engaging way.
The proverb is not only about the relationship between the one who grows the tree and the one who enjoys the fruit. Its deeper meaning serves as motivation for individuals to recognize and fulfill their responsibility of showing gratitude. This principle has a profound impact, not just on individuals but on the entire Vietnamese nation. It encourages us to reflect on the gratitude we owe to our parents, who gave us life and raised us, and to our teachers, who impart valuable lessons that shape our futures. This lesson instills in us the importance of gratitude and respect in every aspect of our lives.
This moral lesson does not just offer us wisdom; it has become a widely circulated proverb that serves as a guiding principle for cultivating and promoting the noble traditions of our nation. These traditions carry deep, meaningful values, teaching us to become more aware of our beliefs and responsibilities. The message of this saying is one of profound gratitude, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. It’s a reminder of the conditions of life that we must nurture and adapt to fit the changing social landscape. As society progresses, it is essential to retain these values, which serve as moral standards for every individual.
Our nation’s leaders, like President Ho Chi Minh, whose contributions to the country are immeasurable, will always be remembered with deep gratitude. This is a beautiful tradition of the Vietnamese people. We take pride in this tradition, which has brought honor to our nation and allowed us to contribute to the world. Today, Vietnam observes numerous days to honor those who have contributed to the country, such as the Vu Lan Festival, a day to express thanks to our parents, and the Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day, when we remember the kings who established our nation. These occasions serve as reminders of our gratitude toward our parents, teachers, and those who have served the country.
The beautiful traditions of our nation have been passed down through the ages, and they continue to grow stronger. 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' is not just a good custom but an integral part of our identity. It shapes our sense of responsibility and commitment to nurturing these traditions, and it inspires us to show respect and gratitude to the many individuals who have shaped our lives. The Vietnamese people have many role models who exemplify this spirit of gratitude, including those who have made significant sacrifices to repay their parents and show respect for the elderly. Every child should learn to appreciate and honor their parents, showing kindness and care throughout their lives.
As the next generation, we have inherited the fruits of the sacrifices made by our ancestors. We enjoy the benefits of freedom and a prosperous life, which our forebears fought hard to secure. We must take pride in these achievements and contribute to the continued success of our nation. Each of us has the potential to repay the debt of gratitude to our country, whether through our work or by honoring the contributions of our nation's heroes, like the mothers of Vietnam who have been recognized with national awards. Their sacrifices have become a source of inspiration, teaching us how to carry forward the legacy of gratitude.
We must continue to uphold and promote the beautiful traditions of our people. This tradition of gratitude is not just an inheritance but also an ongoing responsibility to protect and strengthen it, ensuring it remains a core value of the Vietnamese spirit.


6. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 9
Honoring those who came before us, living with loyalty, and expressing gratitude to those who have contributed to our lives is a long-standing and cherished tradition of the Vietnamese people. This noble ethic has been affirmed and demonstrated throughout the history of our nation. The proverb 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' truly reflects our people's deep sense of gratitude.
To understand the full meaning of 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree,' we must first recognize that when we enjoy a delicious fruit, we should remember the efforts of those who planted, nurtured, and cared for the tree. But there is also a deeper message in this proverb. 'Eating fruit' refers to the enjoyment of the results, 'remembering' means showing gratitude, and 'the one who planted the tree' refers to the laborers who made this result possible. In our everyday lives, we often see expressions of gratitude. For instance, on the full moon or on anniversaries, we offer incense to honor our ancestors, the people who gave us life and the opportunities we enjoy today. On a larger scale, we build memorials for war heroes and mothers of Vietnam, or create funds to support those in need. These actions, whether small or grand, reflect the nation's deep-rooted tradition of gratitude. On the other hand, ingratitude, betrayal, and neglect go against these societal norms and damage both personal integrity and our collective civilization.
But why should we 'remember the one who planted the tree'? First and foremost, the fruits we enjoy today, whether material or spiritual, are not the result of chance. They are the outcome of the sweat, tears, and even blood of those who worked tirelessly. The peace we enjoy today is the result of countless sacrifices by our soldiers and civilians, many of whom gave their lives for the independence of the nation. The flag of our country flies proudly today because of the sacrifices made by countless heroes. We exist, grow, and contribute to society because of the efforts of our ancestors, parents, and teachers. We owe our achievements to these individuals and should be grateful for their sacrifices. Furthermore, gratitude is a treasured tradition in our culture.
This tradition has deeply embedded itself in the hearts and minds of every Vietnamese person. Gratitude has become an innate quality, part of the very fabric of our identity. For instance, when our grandparents provide us with delicious fruits, we say thank you. If someone has helped us, we repay them with sincerity. Additionally, gratitude brings many personal benefits—it helps shape our character, promotes loyalty, strengthens relationships, and creates bonds between people. Thus, gratitude is not just an ethical quality; it is a reflection of the culture and values of true Vietnamese people.
So, how can we show our gratitude? First, we must clearly recognize that gratitude is a cherished tradition passed down through generations. It is a valuable gem in the treasure chest of virtues that our people hold dear. Therefore, each individual must preserve and cultivate the tradition of gratitude. This can be demonstrated through small but meaningful actions. At home, we show gratitude to our parents and grandparents by being respectful, obedient, and helpful in daily chores like cleaning, cooking, and taking care of younger siblings. At school, we express our gratitude to teachers by studying hard, being respectful, and cultivating good character. As the younger generation, entrusted with the future of the nation, we must diligently strive to become responsible citizens, worthy of the sacrifices made by those who came before us. Moreover, we should not just be recipients of benefits but also contributors who create results for future generations to enjoy.
In this way, gratitude is not just a moral obligation; it is a sacred duty that each of us must uphold and cultivate. As students, we must start nurturing this noble quality while still in school, so that it becomes an intrinsic part of our lives.


7. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 10
Our ancestors often used the proverb 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' to advise their descendants. The literal meaning of the proverb is that when enjoying ripe, delicious fruit, we must remember the efforts of those who planted, nurtured, and cared for the tree.
So why should we 'remember the one who planted the tree' when we 'eat fruit'? From the moment we are born until we grow up, we benefit from many things given by others. The rice we eat is the result of the hard work of the farmers who plow the fields. The clothes we wear are made possible by the work of those who spin the thread, weave, and sew. The road we walk on to school was built by the blood and sacrifices of our ancestors. The peaceful sleep we enjoy every night is secured by the soldiers and border guards who protect our land. These 'planters of trees' have created the 'fruit' that we enjoy.
Therefore, we should express our gratitude to them, as it enhances our character. Gratitude not only beautifies our soul but also empowers us to overcome challenges and reach success. Gratitude is a valuable tradition in our nation. Our ancestors always emphasized the importance of being grateful. This virtue fosters a life of kindness, loyalty, and respect for both the past and the future. So, how should we show gratitude to those who 'planted the tree'?
For our ancestors, we must always show respect and honor. President Ho Chi Minh, the beloved father of our nation, taught us to uphold the tradition of 'drinking water, remembering its source.' In one speech to a military unit, he emphasized: 'Drinking water, remembering its source. The descendants must remember their ancestors. The Hung Kings labored to build the country, and we must work together to preserve it. That is the true meaning of remembering our ancestors.'
For our parents and teachers, we should show respect and love by studying hard, helping at home, and striving to become good children and students. We must work to repay the nurturing and teachings of our parents and teachers. We should always remember these words:
'When I was a small child,
Now I’ve grown so much,
The rice from my father, the clothes from my mother, and the lessons from my teachers,
What can I do to repay all these?'
Every day, when receiving help or care from anyone, we should show gratitude, even through a simple smile, a meaningful glance, or a heartfelt thank you.
We must never show ingratitude or disloyalty in our words or actions. Those who repay kindness with betrayal are despicable. Therefore, we must condemn such behavior whenever we encounter it. For the elderly, veterans, and those who have contributed to our revolution, we should not only respect them but also engage in acts of charity, support veterans' families, and help those in need.
We greatly appreciate the Party and the State for awarding the title of 'Vietnamese Heroic Mother' to mothers who have sacrificed their sons and husbands for the country. We also thank the various organizations that build houses of love and provide savings books to support these heroic mothers.
The proverb 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' is a valuable lesson from our ancestors. Its significance extends beyond past generations and serves as a guide for future generations to pursue goodness, truth, and beauty. In doing so, humanity becomes more noble, life becomes more beautiful, the earth blossoms with life, and each day grows brighter.


8. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 1
Since ancient times, our ancestors have always advised us to be grateful and respect those who have contributed to our well-being. This wisdom is clearly reflected in the proverb: 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.'
The proverb serves as a piece of advice to us. Literally, 'fruit' represents the best and most delicious product of a tree, the result of time and care. Therefore, when we enjoy a delicious piece of fruit, we should remember the people who planted and nurtured the tree. However, the deeper meaning of the proverb urges us to be mindful of those who have created any result or success we enjoy. 'Eating fruit' symbolizes the beneficiaries, while 'planting trees' represents those who create the results for others to enjoy.
So, why should we remember 'the one who planted the tree' when we 'eat fruit'? All the achievements we enjoy today did not come about by chance. These results are the product of the hard work, sweat, tears, intellect, and even the sacrifices of countless people who have worked to make our lives better. Have we ever wondered: why are we here today? It is the result of our parents' sacrifices. They have always been there for us, through both happy and sad times, nurturing and supporting our dreams.
Our teachers are like second parents who are always close by, guiding us, opening the doors to the vast treasures of knowledge, and helping to fulfill our dreams. Additionally, the contributions of soldiers and young volunteers are invaluable. Without their sacrifices, how could we enjoy the peace and happiness we have today, going to school and playing with our friends? Moreover, workers, engineers, and doctors give tirelessly of their time, energy, and intellect. These are the people who sacrifice their lives to contribute to the country. We must remember them because this is a cherished tradition of our people: 'Drinking water, remembering its source,' and 'A bird has its nest, and a person has their ancestors.'
Understanding this, how should we act? Every year, our government honors those who have made contributions for us to enjoy the benefits we have today, which is a reflection of humanity. As for our parents, some children love and respect them because they realize that their parents created the life they enjoy today. This is truly in line with the advice of the proverb. We, as individuals, must consciously uphold and carry forward this principle. We must fulfill our duties as children in the family, as students in school, and always express gratitude to those who came before us.
This proverb leaves us with a precious lesson. As students, we must work hard to preserve the achievements our ancestors have made and remind each other to live by the virtues the proverb teaches us.


9. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 2
Throughout history, our ancestors have left behind numerous folk songs, proverbs, and teachings that offer valuable lessons on how to behave, interact with others, and the best practices for farming and animal husbandry that have been honed over generations. Even though these proverbs are brief and concise, they contain deep meanings. One such example is the proverb: 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.'
This proverb, just six words long, carries timeless wisdom that will continue to be passed down through the ages. Its author is unknown, and its exact origin remains a mystery. However, it is a saying we encounter frequently, both in school and in everyday life.
If we interpret the proverb literally, we could say that each type of fruit we eat represents the hard work of farmers who have toiled under the sun and rain to cultivate the plants that bear the fruit we enjoy today. Without their labor, how could we have fruits to eat without putting in the same effort? Some may argue that they pay for the fruit, so there's no need to remember the farmers, but how many of us are willing to put in the effort and time to grow these trees ourselves? That's the key point here. What we can easily find in supermarkets or shops is not easily obtained by farmers. Have you ever faced a crop failure? Have you ever had to work under the scorching sun to tend the plants? Therefore, with every product you receive, always remember and be thankful to those who made it possible.
While this is the literal interpretation, what about the metaphorical meaning? In the context of modern society, everything we enjoy today is the result of someone else's effort. We must not only enjoy the benefits but also show gratitude to those who have made these achievements possible. For instance, during the wars of resistance against French colonization and American imperialism, countless soldiers sacrificed their lives so we could have the peaceful and prosperous lives we enjoy today. We were born and grew up in a peaceful society, and although we cannot fully imagine the hardships of the past, we must always remember and honor the heroes who gave their lives for our current way of life.
Gratitude should not only extend to our nation and people but also to our parents and ancestors—those who gave us life and raised us. Our parents have nurtured us and helped us grow into who we are. Therefore, we must always show gratitude to them. We should never cause them worry or sorrow and should constantly strive to make the world a better place for future generations.


10. Essay Explaining the Proverb 'When Eating Fruit, Remember the One Who Planted the Tree' - Essay 3
'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' is a proverb that is familiar to all of us. It represents one of the most beautiful moral traditions passed down through generations by our ancestors.
By simply listening to the words of this proverb, we can immediately grasp its literal meaning: 'Eating fruit' refers to enjoying the sweet fruits, while 'remembering the one who planted the tree' refers to those who cultivated and took care of the tree. However, the proverb goes beyond this simple, literal meaning and carries a deeper message of gratitude.
The metaphor in the phrase 'eating fruit' represents inheriting and benefiting from material or spiritual achievements. The 'one who planted the tree' symbolizes the people who have contributed their hard work and effort to create those achievements, and in a broader sense, it refers to past generations who laid the foundation for our present generation.
Indeed, everything we use in our daily lives comes from the labor of others—from the fragrant rice we eat, the pure water we drink, the clothes we wear, to the transportation we use, and the information technology we rely on. All of these are the results of labor and research. Even our very existence and growth are due to the nurturing of our parents, whose contributions are immeasurable. Every moment of peace and comfort we enjoy today is a result of the sacrifices made by our national heroes and past generations who fought to protect the independence of our country.
Although these individuals never demand our gratitude or repayment, gratitude is a measure of our moral values and character. When we appreciate the things we benefit from and remember our roots, we become more conscious of our responsibilities and live more meaningful lives.
Simple acts of gratitude, such as respecting our parents and teachers, and setting a good example for the younger generation, can demonstrate our appreciation. In ancient times, King Shun was honored as a king due to his filial piety towards his parents. In today's modern world, where we are surrounded by many relationships, gratitude is elevated to include not only respect for parents but also a broader sense of appreciation. If we integrate gratitude into our daily lives, we will be cherished and respected by those around us.
We may not forget the immense debt we owe to our parents, especially during specific occasions like the Vu Lan Festival, Father's Day, and Mother's Day. We remember the sacrifices of our ancestors during the Hung Kings' death anniversary on the 10th of March or honor the fallen soldiers on Vietnam's War Veterans and Martyrs Day on July 27th. We also express gratitude to our teachers on Vietnam Teachers' Day, November 20th.
Yet, there are also the everyday, simple things that we might overlook, which are essential to our existence. Perhaps due to the fast pace of life, we forget that each of us is constantly receiving from the world around us. We benefit from the natural world: the warmth of the sun, the clear air, the refreshing water, the cool breezes, and the atmosphere that sustains our lives.
The gifts that nature provides us are countless, so we must also show gratitude to Mother Nature by caring for the environment. This can be expressed through small actions like not littering, reducing plastic waste to protect the clean air, conserving water resources, and being mindful not to waste but use resources wisely while protecting the environment.
In conclusion, the proverb 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' is a profound and meaningful lesson about humanity, deeply rooted in the Vietnamese culture. This simple and humble saying encapsulates the importance of gratitude. And this principle of gratitude transcends beyond the borders of Vietnam. Around the world, we hear stories of gratitude, such as Thailand's beauty queen Mint Kanistha who bowed to thank her mother for picking up trash after she won her title, or the custom of washing parents' feet in Korea as a sign of respect. Likewise, the global movement for environmental protection reflects a universal sense of gratitude for our planet.
No matter who we are or what accomplishments we have achieved, we should never forget those who gave birth to us, raised us, and taught us. If we forget these people, we risk becoming individuals who lack moral integrity and are not respected by society.
The lesson of 'When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree' will undoubtedly be a valuable lesson as we journey through life. With this lesson, no matter what path we take, we will become better people in terms of both ethics and civility, and we will learn to interact with the people and environment around us with respect.

