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Startled to read the essay by Chau Vu Man's daughter, an 11th-grade student at Le Quy Don High School, Nha Trang City, Vietnam. A very delicate perspective on the image "The paper boat and the light bulb". The essay is very impressive with its depth and creativity in presenting its views on life. This is an article worth reading and pondering.

Essay topic:

Write an essay presenting your opinion on the topic suggested in the photo above.

Assignment:

Life is akin to a paper boat drifting amidst the currents of the universe, never tranquil, always tumultuous. Whether the boat stands firm, forging ahead, depends on the balance of internal strength, intellect, and soul; a delicate equilibrium each individual must strive to achieve. The image of a paper boat carrying an electric light bulb submerged beneath the water's surface symbolizes this essence – a life lesson for all to heed.

The paper boat represents the fragile existence with the philosophy that the human body and material life will perish without immortality. Wealth, status, riches, power... these are transient displays before life's vicissitudes. The electric light bulb tethered beneath the boat epitomizes enduring values nurtured by humanity, sought after, and bestowed for the betterment of others from the depths of altruistic souls. It encompasses goodness, moral integrity, lofty aspirations, genuine dreams, a heart filled with love, a mind wise and creative, an independent spirit, and a life ethos of selflessness. The light bulb, larger than the boat, signifies that at the core of all beauty and immortality lie the two words "humanity," transcending all temporary constructs. The boat and the light bulb are bound together. The boat will tilt, unable to withstand the wind, without the light bulb to balance. Similarly, the light bulb will forever sink without the boat to guide and lead. Internal and external forces, material and spiritual, inner values and outward manifestations, though belonging to opposing poles, always accompany, support, uplift, and bind together. To embark on a steadfast journey, to reach ideal horizons, humanity must learn to balance intellect, heart, and ambition.

Regardless of its size, the paper boat is still made of paper, destined to disintegrate upon reaching its limits. Humans are born equal; whether rich or poor, all will eventually return to dust. It is the universe's law. No material possession exists eternally, replaced by newer, more progressive ones. Humans and tangible entities alike belong to the material realm. If we solely invest in the "prosperity" of the physical body, wealth, and fleeting possessions, neglecting our character, and failing to nurture our spiritual lives, we will forever remain isolated, selfish individuals. With one sudden gust of wind, our boat will overturn and sink. We not only lose everything but are also forgotten for leaving no positive legacy. Like Ba Kien in "Chi Pheo," esteemed and affluent, yet upon death, there is no pity or remembrance for the good deeds done beyond scorn and derision.

The boat cannot stand firm without the light bulb's internal light, and the light bulb cannot travel far without the guiding boat. Thomas Edison, a great inventor in human history, found inspiration at times from compassion for an elderly frail unable to travel by horse. Bill Gates, the wealthiest person in the world, is admired for his willingness to donate 90% of his wealth to charitable organizations. Albert Einstein and Galileo are not only celebrated as brilliant physicists but also praised as individuals dedicating their lives to humanity's progress. Ambition is the driving force for humans to elevate their intellect and nurture their hearts. Conversely, intellect and heart uplift genuine ambitions.

A sad reality in today's society is not everyone can balance the boat and the light bulb. Many are consumed by the pursuit of wealth, status, and power, trampling upon their own and others' characters. It is not only folly but also ignorance and cruelty. Organ trafficking in China, human trafficking rings, child abductions, counterfeit food production, the use of banned substances in manufacturing, large-scale corruption... these atrocious crimes proliferate, causing chaos in the universe, and unsettling humanity's common stream. Conversely, if the boat is too small, it lacks the strength to lift the light bulb high. In such cases, lacking physical strength, living without a noble will, and devoid of honest future aspirations, no matter how compassionate one's heart is, it cannot contribute to society, inadvertently becoming a burden, dragging one's own life to the depths.

Therefore, each individual, especially the youth, must reevaluate the balance in their lives. Reflect and seriously consider their position and the path they wish to pursue in the future. Continuously train the body, and mind, acquire knowledge, and life skills, and improve their character daily. Always be aware of the direction of life's boat, if swayed, adjust timely before it's too late.

There is nothing more serene than a lotus leaf balanced on the water's surface, and nothing more admirable than a person who knows how to balance in life. The imagery of the paper boat and the electric light bulb provides a comprehensive view of life, from which we contemplate and practice profound lessons on the steadfast journey of life. Be silent and listen: "Have you truly lived in balance?"

Man-Chau Vu,

11th-grade student at Le Quy Don High School, Nha Trang City, Vietnam.

Note:

The original article was written in 2019.

English translation done by Vu Van Tac on February 26, 2024.