A Letter to Mum
Celebrating Mother’s Day with Love and Gratitude
This week, as Mother's Day approaches, I want to take a small step away from Vietnamese coffee culture and instead, dedicate this space to something even more heartfelt — celebrating our mothers.
If you're still searching for the perfect gift or wondering how to connect with your mum from afar, I’ll share some ideas below. But more importantly, I hope this post reminds you to pause, reflect, and create beautiful memories with the person who has given you so much love.
A Special Day to Remember
Mother’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar — it’s a beautiful reminder to honour the women who nurtured, supported, and shaped us.
On May 8, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a resolution establishing the second Sunday of May as Mother's Day. It became a national day to express gratitude and love — and over time, it grew into a celebration recognized around the world.
In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to take these moments for granted. That’s why days like this matter — to slow down, to remember, and to cherish.
A Story Close to My Heart
When I think about my mum, the memories that flood my mind are scenes of her working tirelessly, almost endlessly.
From the early morning hours, she would be shopping at the market, then rushly preparing breakfast and getting me ready for school. After class, I would find her at the restaurant, Bia Minh — a cozy spot she and my dad built near the lake on Đinh Liệt Street, serving travelers since 1994. Until now, there are still so many awesome yet chaotic stories about their work journey.
Back then, I rarely saw her take a break. Holidays were no exception. She spent her days sourcing the freshest ingredients at 5 AM, running the restaurant from sunrise to midnight, coming home to cook, clean, and care for us in between continuously for 20 years.
Her English was never perfect, but her warmth transcended any language barrier. She taught herself to serve customers with heart, create the longest menus I have ever seen, and manage a team at the age of 27— all while raising two daughters. Through her, I learned what true hospitality and diligence meant, even if I didn’t understand it fully until later in life.
Lessons That Stay Forever
Following in her footsteps, I pursued hotel management, learning about service and leadership. Only when I stepped into the workforce did I grasp just how much stamina and spirit this work demands.
Even then, my efforts felt like a fraction of what my mother had carried on her shoulders for decades.
There were times, she said, when she wanted to stop. But thinking of the family gave her the strength to keep going. And because of her resilience, my sister and I had the chance to start new lives in New Zealand.
When I had to go through hardships and difficulties in life, that’s when I reach out to mum. That is really a great privilege for me. Now that I’m living far from home, I treasure every phone call, every story she shares, every small moment of connection. It’s humbling to realise how many dreams and sacrifices she tucked away for us — quietly, fiercely, and lovingly.
I know that no matter how many gifts I give or words I say, they will never fully match what she has given me. But I also know what makes her happiest: knowing that her daughters are healthy, that we are trying my best, and that we carry her lessons in our hearts. If I ever become a mother myself one day, I hope to pass on even a fraction of her strength and love.
Mother's Day Gift Ideas: Small Gestures, Big Love
Below are some inspirations that you can look into spoiling your Mums:
If you’re lucky enough to be with your mum this Mother's Day, here are a few thoughtful ideas to make her feel special:
Cook a meal she loves: A simple, home-cooked dish can say a thousand words
Handle the chores: Let her rest by taking over the housework.
Plan a day out together: Visit her favorite café, take a stroll by the lake, or simply sit down for a heart-to-heart.
If you're living far from your mum (like I am), here are ways to stay close even from afar:
Send a heartfelt message: Tell her how beautiful she is, how grateful you are, and how much you miss her.
Order flowers or a small gift: There are many services now that deliver internationally. A simple bouquet can light up her day.
Call her: Even a short video call can mean the world. Let her hear your voice and see your face.
Listen to her: Ask about her life, her dreams, her memories. You’ll be surprised by the wisdom and stories she shares.
Time moves fast. Don’t wait for a "perfect" moment to say what's in your heart. Every conversation, every "I love you," every laugh shared is a memory you'll never regret.
Closing Words: A Hug Across the Miles
To my dearest Mum — thank you for every meal cooked, every sacrifice made, every lesson taught through your own beautiful example.
I miss you every day, and your love remains the compass that guides me, no matter how far away I am.
When I see you again, I’ll hug you tighter, tell you you're the best, and make up for lost time. Until then, I hope you can feel how much you are loved.
Happy Mother's Day, Mum. I love you for life.
