Category: Leadership Development

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Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses

A Letter to My Adult Sons: Embracing Progress, Evolution, and Change

Viet Bao Louisville KY - Di Tran and Sons
Viet Bao Louisville KY - Di Tran and Sons

Dear Jayjay, Skysky, and Dydy,

As I write this letter, I hope that you are doing well in the future, and that you have grown into wonderful and successful individuals. As your father, it has been my pleasure to guide you through life and to share my experiences with you. I am writing to you today to remind you of some important things that I have learned, and that I hope you will carry with you throughout your lives.

Life is a journey, and it is not always easy. There will be ups and downs, successes and failures, and everything in between. But it is important to remember that progress, evolution, and change are the key to a fulfilling life. It is not about being perfect or getting everything you desire. It is about learning new things, applying old and new knowledge effectively and efficiently, and shooting for 100% effort at all times.

Self-discipline is always the goal, and being a better person every day is something that we should all strive for. It is important to give thanks for every experience, to enjoy the ride, and to love all the falls and feel ecstatic for all the standups. Even when things slow down, it is important to take a step back and feel accomplished for all the small wins and consistency in all actions.

I believe that there is no such thing as a mistake or failure. Instead, every undesirable result is a fall, and even falls are wins because they provide us with the opportunity to learn and grow. It is important to thank God for every step we take, and to pray every second, working with God through every action to be in complete harmony with the energy of the universe.

As your father, I have learned that being calm and humble through the ride is a learning experience, and so we learn together and grow together. Some might say that we grow old together, but I believe that we grow wise together. Nothing is old, and everything is a new experience every day as God blesses us with new opportunities to learn and grow.

My dear sons, I want you to remember that life is a journey, and it is up to you to make the most of it. Always strive to be a better person every day, and remember that progress, evolution, and change are the keys to a fulfilling life. Embrace every experience, enjoy the ride, and be grateful for every fall and every standup. Work with God through every action, and be in complete harmony with the energy of the universe. I am proud of you, and I will always be by your side, learning and growing with you.

With love and blessings,

Dad

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Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses

The Power of Humility: Why Being Humble is Essential for Success and Fulfillment

The world we live in today is fast-paced and competitive. In such a world, it is easy to get carried away by our achievements and lose sight of the things that truly matter. Being humble is one of those things that matter, and it is an essential trait that we all should strive to cultivate. In this article, we will explore the importance of being humble and how it can impact our lives positively.

Being humble is an essential quality that we all should possess. It means having a modest opinion of oneself and being respectful of others. Humility allows us to acknowledge our limitations and weaknesses, which helps us to strive to improve and become better versions of ourselves. Moreover, it helps us to appreciate the contributions of others and value their opinions, leading to better teamwork and collaboration.

In his book, “The Art of Possibility,” Rosamund Stone Zander explores the concept of humility in depth. She argues that humility is not just about being modest; it is also about acknowledging that everyone has something to contribute. Zander writes that “when we are humble, we recognize that we are all in this together, and we can achieve more by working together than we can by working alone.”

Another book that highlights the importance of humility is “Good to Great” by Jim Collins. Collins argues that one of the traits that separate great companies from average ones is the presence of a humble leader. He writes that “Level 5 leaders display a paradoxical blend of personal humility and professional will.” These leaders are willing to put the needs of the organization before their own and are willing to learn from others.

Being humble also means being open to learning and feedback. When we are humble, we are more likely to accept criticism and use it to improve ourselves. In his article, “The Power of Humility in Leadership,” John Baldoni writes that “leaders who are humble are not afraid to admit they don’t have all the answers.” They are willing to learn from their mistakes and those of others.

In his book, “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” Di Tran explores the concept of humility and how it can impact our lives positively. He argues that humility is essential in building strong relationships and creating a positive work environment. Tran writes that “when we focus on others and put their needs before our own, we create a culture of empathy and respect.”

Being humble is an essential quality that we all should strive to cultivate. It helps us to acknowledge our limitations and weaknesses, appreciate the contributions of others, and value their opinions. Humility also allows us to learn from others, accept feedback, and create a positive work environment. As Di Tran writes in his book, “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” when we focus on others, we create a culture of empathy and respect, leading to better relationships and a more fulfilling life.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

50 Affirmations for Morning and Night Meditation to Boost Mental Health

Morning Affirmations:

  1. I am grateful for this new day and the opportunities it brings.
  2. I am filled with positive energy and ready to tackle the day.
  3. I trust in my abilities to achieve my goals.
  4. I am worthy of love and success.
  5. Today, I choose joy and happiness.
  6. I am healthy and strong.
  7. I am surrounded by abundance and prosperity.
  8. I am open to new experiences and growth.
  9. I am at peace with myself and the world.
  10. I trust that everything will work out for my highest good.
  11. I release all negative thoughts and emotions.
  12. I radiate positivity and attract good things.
  13. I am capable of overcoming any obstacle.
  14. I am confident in my decisions and choices.
  15. I am surrounded by loving and supportive people.
  16. I am enough just as I am.
  17. I am grateful for my blessings and challenges.
  18. I am focused and productive.
  19. I am free of stress and anxiety.
  20. I am worthy of rest and self-care.
  21. I am creative and inspired.
  22. I am calm and centered.
  23. I am aligned with my purpose and passions.
  24. I am kind and compassionate to myself and others.
  25. I am constantly growing and evolving.

Why it works: Morning affirmations set the tone for the day, helping to cultivate a positive mindset and outlook. By focusing on positive affirmations, it helps to shift the focus away from negative thoughts and emotions, reducing stress and anxiety. By acknowledging our strengths and abilities, we become more confident and self-assured, which can lead to greater success and happiness.

Night Affirmations:

  1. I am grateful for all the good things that happened today.
  2. I release all negative thoughts and emotions from the day.
  3. I forgive myself and others for any mistakes or shortcomings.
  4. I am proud of my accomplishments and progress.
  5. I trust that everything will work out for my highest good.
  6. I am at peace with myself and the world.
  7. I am surrounded by love and positivity.
  8. I am deserving of rest and relaxation.
  9. I am grateful for the lessons learned today.
  10. I am excited for what tomorrow will bring.
  11. I am free of stress and worry.
  12. I am confident in my abilities to overcome any challenges.
  13. I am worthy of love and respect.
  14. I trust in the universe to guide me towards my highest good.
  15. I am grateful for my blessings and the people in my life.
  16. I am focused on my goals and priorities.
  17. I am constantly learning and growing.
  18. I am surrounded by abundance and prosperity.
  19. I am kind and compassionate to myself and others.
  20. I am filled with peace and serenity.
  21. I am aligned with my purpose and passions.
  22. I am grateful for the gift of another day.
  23. I am in control of my thoughts and emotions.
  24. I am open to receiving abundance and positivity.
  25. I am constantly improving and becoming a better version of myself.

Why it works: Night affirmations help to reflect on the day and let go of any negative thoughts or emotions. By focusing on gratitude and positivity, it helps to cultivate a sense of peace and relaxation, promoting better sleep and mental health. By reaffirming our worth and capabilities, it boosts self-esteem and confidence, helping us to wake up feeling energized and motivated for the new day.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

Mental Health: An Essential Component of Overall Well-being

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked or stigmatized in our society. However, the importance of mental health is becoming increasingly recognized, with more attention being paid to the topic in recent years. In this article, we will explore the significance of mental health, citing the works of various authors to emphasize the relevance of this topic in today’s world.

Focus on your mental health

One of the most influential books on the subject of mental health is “An Unquiet Mind” by Kay Redfield Jamison. In her memoir, Jamison, a clinical psychologist and professor of psychiatry, shares her personal experience of living with bipolar disorder. She describes her struggles with mood swings, manic episodes, and suicidal thoughts, as well as the impact that her illness had on her relationships and career. Jamison’s book highlights the importance of early intervention and treatment for mental health issues, as well as the need for greater understanding and acceptance of people with mental illnesses.

Another significant work on mental health is “Lost Connections” by Johann Hari. In his book, Hari explores the root causes of depression and anxiety, arguing that these conditions are often a response to disconnection from meaningful relationships, work, and community. He emphasizes the need for social and environmental factors to be considered in the treatment of mental health issues, rather than relying solely on medication or therapy.

Meditation

A third important author in the field of mental health is Brené Brown, who has written extensively on the topics of vulnerability, shame, and resilience. In her book “The Gifts of Imperfection,” Brown encourages readers to embrace their imperfections and vulnerabilities, rather than trying to hide or mask them. She argues that self-acceptance and self-compassion are essential for mental health and well-being.

These authors and their works emphasize the importance of mental health in today’s world. Mental health issues affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. Moreover, mental health is closely linked to physical health, with the two often influencing each other. For example, chronic stress or anxiety can lead to physical health problems such as heart disease or digestive issues.

Be kind to others

In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards promoting mental health and well-being, with increased awareness and understanding of mental health issues, reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing better access to mental health services and support. This movement has been driven in part by the work of authors and advocates who have brought attention to the importance of mental health.

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and its significance is increasingly recognized in our society. The works of authors such as Kay Redfield Jamison, Johann Hari, and Brené Brown highlight the importance of early intervention, social and environmental factors, and self-acceptance in promoting mental health and well-being. As a society, we must continue to prioritize mental health and work towards reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, providing better access to treatment and support, and promoting greater understanding and compassion for those who are struggling with mental health issues.

In conclusion, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated, and the works of authors like Di Tran serve as a powerful reminder of this fact. Tran’s books, “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH,” highlight the need for a shift in focus away from ourselves and towards others and faith.

By focusing on others and cultivating empathy and understanding, we can improve our mental health and well-being, as well as build stronger relationships with those around us. Moreover, by dropping our fears and focusing on faith, we can develop greater resilience and courage, and overcome the obstacles and challenges that we face in life.

Tran’s message aligns with the growing movement towards promoting mental health and well-being, with a greater understanding of the impact that mental health issues have on individuals and society as a whole. As a society, we must continue to prioritize mental health and work towards reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, providing better access to treatment and support, and promoting greater understanding and compassion for those who are struggling with mental health issues.

Incorporating the teachings from Di Tran’s books into our daily lives can help us focus on the bigger picture, and recognize the interconnectedness of ourselves with others and the world around us. By doing so, we can create a more positive and supportive environment that promotes mental health and well-being for all.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

Tim Grover’s Theory of Life Progress: Choosing the Right Emotions and Embracing the Difference

Tim Grover is a renowned performance coach who has trained some of the world’s most successful athletes. However, his philosophy goes beyond sports performance, as he believes that the principles of progress and success can be applied to every aspect of life.

According to Tim Grover, fear, doubt, compassion, hatred, excellence, sourness, and excuses are all competing for our attention. The key is to choose which ones to focus on. Most people make decisions based on their feelings, but to truly make progress, one needs to use their mind to determine what’s best for them.

This requires embracing the difference, even when it scares people. The emotions and feelings we experience are real, and they can be a powerful motivator. However, not everyone will understand our journey, and that’s okay. Successful people have a small circle, surrounding themselves with supportive and encouraging people.

To make progress, we must also be willing to experience pain. Those who embrace pain are the ones who ultimately succeed. Tim Grover has seen this firsthand, having mentored and trained some of the greatest athletes in the world.

To achieve balance in life, we must delete the inessential and unplug from things that don’t serve us. It’s crucial to focus on what’s essential, letting go of anything that distracts us from our goals.

Tim Grover’s own journey is a testament to his philosophy. He pursued sports, but when he realized he wasn’t good enough, he found his calling in training and mentoring athletes. His dedication and hard work helped him succeed in his chosen field, and his philosophy has helped countless others achieve their goals.

Tim Grover’s philosophy of progress applies to all aspects of life, not just sports performance. By choosing which emotions and feelings to focus on, embracing the difference, and being willing to experience pain, we can achieve our goals. By deleting the inessential and surrounding ourselves with a supportive circle, we can find balance and make steady progress towards our desired outcomes.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

Di Tran’s Son, Jayden: The Meaning of Life Through Progress, Self-Improvement, and Adding Value

The question of the meaning of life has been debated for centuries by philosophers, theologians, and scientists alike. While there is no single answer that satisfies everyone, one perspective is that the purpose of life is to improve and progress, adding value to the world around us.

This perspective was recently brought to light by an eight-year-old boy named Jayden Tran, who asked his father, “Why do we do so much?” referring to the various activities he and his younger brothers are involved in after school. In response, Jayden’s father explained that life is about self-improvement and progress, and that the more we improve ourselves, the more we can contribute to the world.

This answer is particularly fitting for Jayden’s question, as it speaks to the importance of hard work, discipline, and personal growth. By engaging in various activities after school, Jayden and his brothers are not only learning new skills and developing their talents, but they are also expanding their perspectives and becoming more well-rounded individuals. This process of self-improvement not only benefits them individually, but also has the potential to positively impact those around them.

In addition to personal growth, this perspective on the meaning of life also emphasizes the importance of adding value to the world. By improving ourselves, we become better equipped to make meaningful contributions to our communities and society as a whole. This can be through our work, our relationships, or even through small acts of kindness and generosity.

Ultimately, the meaning of life is a personal and subjective question that each individual must answer for themselves. However, the perspective of self-improvement and adding value to the world is a powerful one that can inspire us to work hard and make a positive impact. As Jayden’s father wisely explained, “More value creation in self, more you can add.”

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

Embracing Learning: Di Tran’s Journey to a Growth Mindset

Learning is an ongoing process that never stops. We are constantly seeking knowledge, and we do so in different ways. However, the importance of being receptive to learning cannot be overemphasized. It’s crucial to acknowledge that no one can be taught something they are not ready or willing to learn.

Di Tran, the author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and soon-to-be-released “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” knows this concept well. He was taught about the growth mindset, the importance of serving others, and thinking rich by his mother for years. However, it wasn’t until Di had read over 200 books on mindfulness that he fully understood and embraced these teachings. This serves as a powerful reminder that we must have a foundation and an open heart to be able to accept knowledge and apply it in our lives.

Di Tran’s story is one of perseverance and self-discovery. For 41 years, he searched for the key to unlock his potential and embrace a growth mindset. His mother’s teachings were valuable, but it took time for him to internalize them fully.

Di Tran’s journey of learning and growth is highlighted by his lunch with his family for the weekend. Di’s mother once again reminded him to focus on others, think rich, and live rich. However, for the first time, her words “rang the bell” with him. He realized that all the mindfulness books he had read emphasized the same ideas his mother had been teaching him for years. This realization gave him a newfound appreciation for his mother’s teachings and a deeper understanding of the power of mindfulness.

Di Tran’s story emphasizes the importance of being receptive to learning and having an open heart. We must set a solid foundation for ourselves before we can expect to learn effectively. This involves developing a positive mindset, being receptive to change, and having a growth-oriented attitude. We must take ownership of our learning journey and lay the groundwork for our personal and professional growth.

Di Tran’s story serves as an inspiration to all of us that with the right mindset and a willingness to learn, we can achieve great things and make a positive impact in the world. We must actively seek knowledge with an open heart and an eagerness to grow. Learning is a lifelong process, and it is never too late to start or too early to embrace the idea of learning actively.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

Finding Happiness: The Foundation of Life is Purpose and Appreciation

The foundation of life can be summarized in two simple words: purpose and appreciation. Purpose in life is the driving force that keeps us motivated and focused, while appreciation of life allows us to enjoy the journey and find meaning in our experiences. When these two elements are combined, they form a powerful recipe for true happiness and joy in life.

Purpose in life can be different for each individual. It can be a career, a hobby, a personal goal, or even a simple act of kindness. Whatever the purpose may be, it is important to have a clear understanding of what it is and why it matters to you. When you have a purpose in life, you have a reason to wake up every day and work towards something that you find meaningful and fulfilling.

However, purpose alone is not enough to achieve true happiness and joy in life. Appreciation of life is equally important. This means taking the time to recognize and be grateful for the blessings in our lives, no matter how big or small they may be. It means finding joy in the present moment and cherishing the memories that we create along the way.

Here are five quotes and books that further illustrate the importance of purpose and appreciation in life:

  1. “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

This quote emphasizes the importance of having a purpose that goes beyond personal happiness. It encourages us to strive for something that will make a positive impact on the world around us.

  1. “The happiest people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything they have.” – Unknown

This quote highlights the importance of appreciation in finding happiness. It reminds us that true happiness comes from within, and that it is possible to find joy in even the most challenging circumstances.

  1. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl

This book is a powerful testament to the importance of purpose in life. It tells the story of the author’s experiences as a prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp, and how he was able to find meaning and purpose in the midst of unimaginable suffering.

  1. The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
Happiness in the moment and now

This book offers insights and wisdom from two of the world’s most respected spiritual leaders. It emphasizes the importance of finding joy in the present moment and cultivating a sense of gratitude and appreciation for all that life has to offer.

  1. The Power of Purpose: Find Meaning, Live Longer, Better by Richard Leider

This book explores the connection between purpose and longevity, and how having a clear sense of purpose can lead to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. It offers practical strategies for discovering your own purpose and living a life of meaning and significance.

Purpose and appreciation are the foundation of a truly happy and fulfilling life. By identifying our purpose and cultivating a sense of appreciation for all that life has to offer, we can find joy and meaning in even the most challenging circumstances. With the help of these quotes and books, we can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of purpose and appreciation, and learn practical strategies for living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.

In conclusion, we have explored the importance of purpose and appreciation as the foundation of a fulfilling life. However, achieving this state of mind can be challenging, especially when we are plagued by negative thoughts and feelings. That is why I would like to encourage you to check out Di Tran’s books: “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs” and “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”. These books offer practical strategies and insights for overcoming negative thoughts and focusing on what really matters in life – our relationships with others and our faith in ourselves and the world around us. By taking the time to read or listen to these books, you can gain valuable insights into how to live a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. So, I invite you to take action today and invest in your personal growth by exploring these powerful resources.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses Workforce Development

Empowering Young Leaders at JusticeFest: Reflections from Di Tran

Viet Bao - Di Tran CEO - JusticeFest Panelist
Viet Bao - Di Tran CEO - JusticeFest Panelist

JusticeFest is an annual event presented by Churchill Downs, Humana, and Park Community Credit Union that brings together Jefferson County students from grades 3-12 to pitch solutions to community-wide issues. This year, JusticeFest was produced as part of the Derby Equity and Community Initiative, with Kentucky Derby Festival, Churchill Downs, and Humana.

Style ‘N Go – Braiding for Student

Among the panelists at JusticeFest was Di Tran, the author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and the soon-to-be-released book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”. As a business owner and a leader in the community, Di Tran understands the importance of empowering young people to create positive change.

Di Tran shared his story and experiences as a business owner with the young leaders at JusticeFest. He is the owner of Louisville Beauty Academy, a beauty school that has graduated over 1000 students, and Louisville Institute of Technology, an IT apprenticeship program that prepares students for the workforce from day one.

NewComer Academy – JCPS Students

Di Tran was impressed by the creativity, intelligence, and passion of the young leaders at JusticeFest. He was honored to be a panelist and learn from them. In his upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” Di Tran emphasizes the importance of having faith in oneself and in God. He believes that with faith, anything is possible, and one can overcome any obstacle. The young leaders showcased at JusticeFest embody this message, as they tackle community-wide issues with confidence and conviction.

JusticeFest is an event that provides opportunities for young people to showcase their talents and ideas. It allows them to learn from business and community leaders, mentors, advisers, teachers, and other professionals. Di Tran is grateful for events like JusticeFest that empower young people and inspire positive change in the community.

JusticeFest is an important event that showcases the creativity and passion of young leaders in the community. Di Tran’s participation in JusticeFest and his appreciation for the young leaders highlight the importance of empowering young people to create positive change in their communities.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

Mom and I Walked to the Dumpster – A Pivotal Moment That Shaped Who I Am Today – Di Tran

Viet Bao Louisville - Di Tran - Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS - BOOK by Di Tran
Viet Bao Louisville - Di Tran - Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS - BOOK by Di Tran

SUMMARY

In this section of Chapter one of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” by Di Tran, the author recounts a childhood experience that shaped his self-determination and will to protect his family. His mother insisted they retrieve a dirty mattress from a dumpster despite his initial hesitation. He learned the value of determination and the importance of family from his mother’s actions. Later, their good fortune continued when Catholic Charities offered to provide movers to help them transport any items they needed to their new location. The author reflects on the lessons he learned from his mother about the will of God and the importance of effort in achieving success.

Di Tran - Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS
Di Tran – Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS – BOOK

MOM AND I WALKED TO THE DUMPSTER – THE #1 REASON I AM WHO I AM TODAY

“Mom, it’s not like we never slept on a dirt floor before. We were dirt poor, and I used to sleep on the ground in our mud hut. How hard can it get? We can handle this and sleep on the floor without a mattress.” I tried to comfort Mom about not having a mattress for us to sleep on, but more importantly, I was trying to avoid the activity of digging through the dumpsters. I realize that poor was not the point, now that I reflect on and understand why I hesitated. I meant what I said about being poor, and it was truthful, and it would have been totally fine. However, I was uncomfortable digging through trash. As poor as we had been in the past, there was never a time that we dug through trash hunting for items. First, Vietnam was and still is a third-world country, and especially in a poor village like ours, there was no government agency that picked up trash, nor did the people pile their trash in one place. Second, poor people’s trash in Vietnam would never have generated anything worth taking. Third, the idea of digging through trash is the lowest of the low in our mindset, and it is hard to fathom. At the age of 12, I already knew how this would affect me in terms of my self-esteem and perceived status in life. There could have been nothing worse for me at that moment in time. This was the pivotal point that made me who I am today.

Firmly and carefully, Mom stated, “No, Son. At the least, my children will have what other children have, even if it is of the worst quality, “ in this case, a mattress. “I will not settle for less than this,” she responded to my hesitation. Today, as I write this book, I now have three children of my own, ages five, six, and seven. As a parent, I strongly feel what my mom meant at that moment. Her love for her children and family has always surpassed her fear of self-doubt, public criticism, and people’s thoughts of her. Most importantly, she was determined to make the best out of a bad situation, and she knew what that minimum was: a mattress.  That was her driving force, her only thought, and nothing could stop her from achieving that goal. I learned self-determination from Mom, and the level of this became explosive when her children’s interests were concerned in comparison to the norm. Not having a mattress was not an option, and so I tagged along with Mom to the dumpster.

Di Tran and His Mom – Dig the Dumpster for their first mattress in USA

The dumpster was a few blocks from our house, and Mom and I walked there in the cold weather; there was even light snow falling. We were both lightly dressed, wearing our tropical layered clothes, but we did not feel physical discomfort, only the mental heaviness of what we were about to do, dig in the dumpster. For the first time in my life, I felt like an adult man at this age of 12. I was on a mission with Mom, for something that we would hopefully only have to do only once in our lifetime. I felt a strong sense of determination that I inherited from her, and this made me happy. I also began to recognize at this exact moment who I must become, a man of the family with a strong level of determination and will to protect my family at all levels. There was no shame, no hardship, and no criticism that would interfere with the focus we had on our family, as Mom and I walked to the dumpster. “There it is, Son. Get in there and pull it out for me. I will pull it and you push from inside.” Mom directed me to the dumpster where the dirty mattress was. It was wet, heavy, dirty, and stained gray. It smelled of trash and urine. I no longer hesitated and put forth all my effort to get the mattress out from the dumpster and drag it to the temporary home, which we would soon have to exit and move into the Americana apartments. I accomplished something significant for myself, my mom and my family, and I felt quite satisfied. “We did it! Our family now has a mattress!” Mom exhaled with a smile, and seemingly lightened heart.

THE WILL OF GOD

Unexpectedly, our Vietnamese translator from Catholic Charities came over to the house where my mom and I stood after our accomplished mission. The translator looked at us and glanced at the dirty mattress and spoke, “Catholic Charities has decided that this temporary house that you are staying in now, will no longer be used for this purpose after your family leaves. Therefore, they will throw away everything in this house after you leave. You are free to take anything you need to the Americana Apartments.” “Anything and everything we can use?” Mom asked the translator. “Yes, but not only that. Catholic Charities will provide the movers with trucks to help you move them into your new location, since they would have to throw all these away anyway.” “Isn’t this the will of God, Son?” Mom asked me when retelling this story. “Son, remember God will never give you more than what you can handle.” She taught us about faith in God. “But also know that life is about giving all the effort you can by maximizing your brain and physical strength for good; then God will take on the rest.” I gain greater comprehension of Mom’s teachings as I grow and live through life’s challenges. I can only recognize God through doing, not sitting, praying, or waiting for things to happen. Only when I maximize my God-given capability, can I say: “God, now you do your magic based on what I did.” God never seems to never fail me and my family.