I grew up in Quang Tri province. It is one op the poorest provinces in Viet Nam. After communist took over, my family lived in poverty. To provide the needs of the family and to support my studies, my parent worked hard in the farm. My father had to stay in the rice field at night with poor farmers to make sure of the good harvest. At those times, I always accompanied and help my father in planting and harvesting rice. This experience made me aware of the struggles and the values of the poor farmers. Through their examples I began to appreciate the importance of solidarity, mutual help, simplicity, and hospitality. Conscious of the value that they instilled in me at an early age, I began to dream great things and hope for the better. In spite of poverty, I was optimistic to pursue my dream. In this regard my father who was hardworking, simple, humble and honest man influenced me a lot. He was capable of overcoming obstacle and difficulties that came along his way.

Last school year, I was fortune enough to have a first-hand experience of being with the poor sector in HCM city, namely, urban poor, and indigenous people. Having been exposed to the voiles people in our society, I become convinced of my calling to work for the poor and with the poor. The exposure also deepens my understanding of the MSC charism and spirituality. I become more compassionate and merciful of God’s love for humankind especially the poor and the little ones.

 The value of simplicity, humility and hospitality that I learned from the poor of HCM city, helped me to strengthen my resolve to follow Christ, My encounter with them made me aware of my own poverty. I have realized that how poor am I in compassion, love and self-giving. I also discovered my own weakness and limitation. It was painful for me to experience helplessness and vulnerability before them, but this did not make me wear mask and feel discouraged. This humbling experience makes my heart more sensitive to the needs of other people especially the poor. It helped me to become tender, compassionate, kind and understanding to the plight of the poor. It also reminded me that I am poor before God. I belong to Him and I need Him in my life. He is my refuge, strength, and inspiration.

                           

                                                                                                Br. Nguyen Bá Đài, MSC

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