Spring in the Highland

In the early days of spring, the sky’s colors gradually change. The entire forest awakens after a long winter’s rest. Peach blossoms and plum flowers blanket the mountains and forests. After a period of gathering the wind and mist, one day the flowers suddenly awaken. The hillside is filled with the white of plum blossoms and the pink of peach flowers—radiant and poetic.

As someone from the lowlands, my first time wandering into a plum orchard left me amazed. The wonder was not only in being immersed in a sea of white blossoms for the first time but also in feeling so small before the grandeur of nature. The scenery was truly magnificent.

Visiting the highlands in spring, when flowers bloom, makes one forget the cramped, bustling city life. Here, everything around is a palette of natural colors. Gazing at the landscapes of the Northwest mountains and forests, one can’t help but marvel again at the many wonders of life. In the city, we experience lively, bustling scenes of commerce. In the mountains, we slow down and admire the beauty of nature. Mist lingers softly, flowers cover the hills, and the weather is pleasantly cool. Truly a masterpiece of the world.

In spring, the highlands offer fresh, comfortable air. The lingering chill of winter still clings to the trees and plants. It doesn’t urge us to bury ourselves under heavy blankets like the harsh winter cold, but it still carries a crispness in the air. Wearing a light jacket, leaning back in a chair and gazing at the blooming flowers outside—how poetic that moment is.

Winter passes, spring arrives, and a hundred flowers bloom, signaling the approaching Lunar New Year. For Vietnamese people, despite the changes over time, Tet remains a much-anticipated occasion for many away from home. It is not only a time to rest after a long year of dedication, study, and work but also a time for family reunions. For many, a fulfilling Tet means having all family members gathered around a warm meal. Seeing the flowers bloom is a sign that Tet has come and spring is here.

Vietnamese people often exchange many well wishes at the beginning of the new year, praying for peace and prosperity. Tet in the highlands also has its own unique charm, carrying the rustic flavor of the mountainous region. Perhaps that is why the greetings here feel warmer and more sincere?

As another new year approaches, we quietly wish each other health, prosperity, and peace. We hope that the harmony between the land, the sky, and the people will endure, so that the stunning landscapes of the highlands will remain forever.