If you are contemplating yourself and the things you need to do to truly create value in life, then "Right Work" is a book you should not miss. With educational philosophies deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture yet still very modern, "Right Work" will provide you with a fresh perspective, a set of "unforgettable" mindsets.
While topics like education and enlightenment may seem grand, through the pen of Gian Tu Trung, where he aims to dedicate this book even to the most ordinary readers, there is a lesson for everyone. The book does not contain lofty quotes or flashy examples. Simply put, this book is intimate and filled with straightforward thoughts. Divided into four parts, as you gradually dissect each chapter, you come to understand that concepts like "learning to eat, learning to speak, learning to wrap, and learning to open" are more beautiful than they seem.
Have you ever wondered what it means to "be human"? To become a better person, what do you need, and how do you achieve that? The first part of the book provides the most practical examples. It discusses real-life examples of the purpose of life based on the philosophy of Plato. Unlike animals, humans excel in living by listening and discerning right from wrong. Each of us has to live, has to struggle for something. Because we have thoughts, we must fight. To put it poetically, we must grasp the vibrating thread of our own and others' emotions to nurture our souls. Think of it this way: you are the unique product of yourself. Whether good or bad is a matter of your own decision. However, everyone's worldview is unique, and I hope you are not a slave to anything or doing everything just to please others.
We are not only about "being human." Living in a civilized society, understanding one's position in society should not be too difficult. But if that's the case, why talk about "being a citizen"? Where does the ability to be a citizen come from? Being a citizen is an abstract capability with many complex philosophies (which I still do not fully understand). Using a rich, experienced writing style, Gian Tu Trung discusses "being a citizen" in a valuable and understandable way. It is limiting to think that life is only about oneself. Alongside a "free self" is a meaningful life for the nation, not only for oneself but also for building a strong, sustainable nation in which we live. This naturally enters the subconscious of a reader like us, without any coercion.
To do anything, in any role, knowing how to "work" is the key to survival. Whether anyone, in any position, each contributes value to society. Your value is not determined by how much money you make, but by the work you do and the benefits you create for the community. Being a wild horse, I hope you will bring interesting experiences from distant places to your country.
The last topic may sound dry when discussed between you and me, but the role of "education" is extremely important for everyone. What is the ultimate goal of education? Is educational innovation truly necessary? This is concentrated in Chapter 4. Simply put, education – or educational innovation – is a very... complicated story. The process of self-education works well when each individual understands "oneself," doing the right thing without being confused or dreaming in life. Obviously, without converging enough of these "powers," innovation is impossible. Each person in life carries a certain value, a position in their own life.
Desiring to bring value to the community, combined with a simple, humorous writing style, the book provides a profound view of educators. They all aspire to a civilized, positive society. Throughout the book, it is not just lofty philosophies but also humorous real-life examples. Not dry but very useful. Surely, you will have different reflections after reading. But there is a small note, read "Right Work" deliberately, not hastily. Experiencing a delicious and expensive meal is truly a precious experience. I hope to share some thoughts about the path to enlightenment, and I hope you, after experiencing the book, will gain new knowledge or simply help you overcome the uncertainties in your life and find your own path to enlightenment.
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Ha Bang - Media Collaborator, University of Information Technology
Nhat Hien - Translation Collaborator, University of Information Technology