What does it mean to be a helpful person?

Written by Zip Nguyen's father, Phu Nguyen, author of "Story of the week" (Mỗi tuần một chuyện) series —Translated by Hang Nguyen

Click here to read the original post written in Vietnamese.

People often say that those who make a positive impact on society are those who live responsibly for the greater good. While this isn't wrong, it's essential to remember that being responsible for yourself is the first step toward becoming a helpful person.

At first glance, this might sound selfish and self-contradictory, but it is absolutely realistic. If a person is irresponsible for their life, they will never be responsible for others. This is a truth. It's a seemingly simple lesson, but it requires serious thought, perseverance, persistence, and awareness from a young age that will follow us for the rest of our lives.

To illustrate this with a significant example, consider the last two years when the global whirlwind of the Covid-19 pandemic raged. A message from doctors spread around the world via social media: "We work for your safety, please stay home for our safety!" That's life — sometimes, being responsible to yourself means being responsible to the community by staying at home, wearing a mask to avoid spreading the disease, and not burdening doctors, medical staff, your family, and society.

When we attend school or university and apply hard work and self-discipline, we tend to do better. Through learning from teachers and classmates, we equip ourselves with the initial "weapon" to confidently enter the school of life. The achievements we gain first bring good to ourselves. Simultaneously, they alleviate worry for those who care about us, bringing joy to our beloved family, grandparents, fathers, mothers, and others.

As we age, we continue to exhibit the same responsibility. If it rains, we run home to avoid getting wet. If we fall ill and require hospitalization, aside from the pain we endure, we inconvenience those caring for us. Maintaining our health also means aiding and living for others.

It's that simple — we need to be responsible for ourselves to be helpful. Isn't it?

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Do you see yourself being responsible for yourself? If so, what are you most proud of? If not, where do you find yourself stuck? Please comment below, or don't hesitate to send a message to @bloomincrisis via Instagram/Facebook or email feedback to bloomincrisis@gmail.com!