When eating fruit, remember who planted the tree
When eating fruit, remember who planted the tree
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About
About
Growing up as a Vietnamese American, one of my most vivid memories is the daily lighting of incense at our family altar which was adorned with photos of my grandparents, aunts, and uncles. This ritual ingrained in me the importance of respecting our elders and honoring our ancestors.
In my search to define my Vietnamese American identity, I came across the proverb: “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây,” meaning 'When eating fruit, remember who planted the tree.' This saying encapsulates gratitude, respect for our origins, and the value of community.
This proverb isn't just a saying to me; it's a guiding principle shaping my worldview. It connects me to Vietnam and our life in the United States. Each fruit in the postcard symbolizes the values, traditions, and cultural richness of Vietnamese heritage. For instance, durian, with its unique aroma and taste, represents the resilience and complexity of Vietnamese history. Despite challenges like war and displacement, the Vietnamese American community thrives, preserving its cultural legacy.
This proverb reminds us of our interconnectedness and shared history. By honoring our ancestors' contributions, we ensure their legacy lives on, fostering pride and unity across generations.
-Virginia Nguyen
Deepen the Conversation
Deepen the Conversation
Inspired by the Vietnamese proverb, “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây,” you are invited to deepen connections within our community through guided conversations. Use our suggested discussion prompts to explore themes of gratitude, heritage, and intergenerational wisdom. Join this journey to celebrate our heritage and strengthen community bonds.
Intergenerational Connections
Can you share a story about our family's or community's elders that has inspired you?
How can we connect more with our elders to learn from them while also sharing our own experiences and challenges?
Preserving Cultural Heritage
Which Vietnamese traditions do you feel are most important to keep alive in our family/community?
How do we ensure these practices continue to be passed down to younger generations?
Promoting Gratitude and Connection
Can you share an instance where you felt deeply grateful for someone's contribution to your life?
How can we deepen our community bonds and support each other? What practical steps can we take to give back and honor those who have paved the way for us?
About the Artist
About the Artist
Katie Quan (she/her), a third-generation Chinese American born and raised on Ramaytush Ohlone land (San Francisco), is an artist, community advocate, curator, storyteller, and educator. Her work dives into the complexities of Asian America, addressing themes like self-identity, mental health, and family. As the Executive Director and founder of REALSOUL, a curriculum-based arts organization, Katie strives to make BIPOC stories accessible through intersectional and interdisciplinary approaches. In 2023, she was selected for the Youth Speaks and California Arts Council’s Individual Artist Fellowship. In her free time, you can find her drawing, bouldering, or swatting gnats away from her indoor plants. Learn more about her work at: https://realsoul.us.
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