Between the chilly weather and drizzling rain typical of winter, Hoi An’s ancient town still shines with the diligent efforts of people striving to make ends meet. They are freelance workers, dedicated to their daily tasks to earn extra income and prepare for a joyful Tet celebration.
Eking Out a Living in Cold Rain
Mr. Nguyen Van Hung from Cam Pho Ward, Hoi An City, has been selling lottery tickets for over 30 years alongside his wife, who is physically challenged and uses a wheelchair. Every day, the couple persistently roams the streets, aiming to sell around 100 lottery tickets.
“This month of December, we work earlier and come home later to earn some extra money for Tet shopping,” Mr. Hung shared with hope in his eyes. Their work not only supports their livelihood but also serves as a significant source of motivation to overcome difficulties.
Mr. Hung pushing his wife in a wheelchair to sell lottery tickets each night in Hoi An’s ancient town.
At the intersection of Tran Hung Dao and Le Loi streets, Ms. Dang Hoa from Thanh Ha Ward is diligently selling umbrellas and raincoats. During the day, she helps at a breakfast stall, but when evening falls, she busily travels around to earn more income.
“With Tet approaching, our home needs repairs, and children need new clothes. Some days I sell a few dozen umbrellas, while other days none, but I must keep trying,” Ms. Hoa shared.
Ms. Hoa by her small stall, persistently earning a living amidst the days leading up to Tet.
The Bustling Tet Market: Opportunities for Freelance Workers
The traditional Tet holiday is not only a time for family reunions but also a period of increased consumer demand. This creates opportunities for freelance workers like Mr. Hung, Ms. Hoa, and many others to earn extra income.
Along Hoi An’s streets, the sight of people carrying flowers, transporting potted plants, or selling decorations has become familiar. This year, the potted plant market is thriving due to favorable weather, producing healthy and pest-free plants. Consequently, transportation services have also seen significant growth.
According to local residents, the cost of transporting potted plants varies depending on size and distance, ranging from 50,000 to 500,000 VND per delivery. A hard day’s work can yield hundreds of thousands of VND – a precious sum for Tet preparations.
The bustling service of transporting potted plants adds to the scene of livelihoods on the eve of Tet.
Hope for a Prosperous New Year
Beyond jobs like selling lottery tickets, umbrellas, or transporting potted plants, many other services become active. From motorbike taxi drivers and delivery personnel to sanitation workers, everyone seizes the opportunity to earn additional income.
Mr. Vo Van Dung from Son Phong Ward shared, “As Tet approaches, I work day and night delivering goods. It’s tiring, but thinking about my family having a fuller Tet makes me push through.”
These individuals not only seek income but also receive support from the community. Each lottery ticket sold, umbrella handed out, or encouraging smile from passersby provides a significant boost of motivation, helping them move forward into the new year with renewed strength.
Conclusion
Despite the challenges, the freelance workers of Hoi An remain steadfast in their belief and hope for a brighter future. Their persistent efforts under cold rains are a clear testament to their optimistic spirit and determination. Let us appreciate and share with those around us, as even small actions can bring great joy during this Tet season.
Source: Dan Tri Online
