The first days of the new year serve as an occasion for everyone to look back toward their roots and pay tribute to the generations who sacrificed for the independence and freedom of the nation. In these early days of the Bính Ngọ New Year, crowds of people head to martyr cemeteries to offer incense and express their deep gratitude, a practice that has become a beautiful hallmark of spring in this heroic land. Whether young or old, people gather at these sites to threated the “red thread” of remembrance through the generations.

From early morning, the family of Lê Quý Nông, residing in Street 1 of Điện Biên Phủ ward, gathered at the A1 national martyr cemetery to offer incense. This act has become a long-standing tradition for his household.

Amidst the solemn atmosphere, Lê Quý Nông along with his wife and children respectfully lit incense to honor the heroic spirits. He shared that regardless of how busy they might be during the holidays, the family always arranges a time to visit the cemetery so that the children understand that the peaceful life they enjoy today was built upon the sacrifices of those who came before. Joining the family this year was his youngest son, a final-year student at Hanoi University of Science and Technology. He expressed that standing at the cemetery helps him feel the immense sacrifice of the martyrs more clearly, reinforcing the idea that personal success must always be tied to a responsibility toward the country.

Not far away, the family of Nguyễn Thị Thanh Thủy from residential group 11 in Điện Biên Phủ ward was also present to pay their respects. For many years, visiting the cemetery on New Year’s Day has been an indispensable custom for them. Instead of immediately going on spring outings or visiting relatives after leaving the house, they prepare incense to commemorate the fallen soldiers. Nguyễn Thị Thanh Thủy explained that the family often chooses a different cemetery each year as a way to educate the younger generation on patriotism. To her, because independence and freedom were exchanged for the blood of their ancestors, the current generation has a responsibility to continue studying and contributing to remain worthy of that sacrifice.

Throughout the history of Vietnam, the “When drinking water, remember its source” morality has been a consistent theme, and in Điện Biên, this tradition blossoms every spring. Before seeking personal luck for a new year of aspirations, residents choose to look back at their heritage. This lesson is passed from grandparents to parents and then to grandchildren, not only through oral stories but through the concrete action of visiting these sacred sites.

The image of grandparents holding the hands of small children while parents softly explain the weight of history has become a defining feature of the new year. Amidst the busyness of modern life, these quiet moments of reflection carry profound meaning, ensuring the spirit of the heroic land remains vibrant in the hearts of people.