Mother's wish

Exactly eight years ago was a truly memorable time in my life.

Even though I had graduated with a degree in Finance, I realized that Design was my true passion. So, I took my first steps into learning and finding work in this field, despite knowing that my starting point was later than many of my friends.

My first job didn’t go smoothly. I worked part-time for a design company, but because I didn’t proactively negotiate clear agreements, I didn’t receive any official salary—even after nearly six months of work. After parting ways with that job, I outwardly seemed fine, and since I was still tutoring, I hadn’t completely lost my source of income. However, deep down, I started to doubt my own abilities and became a bit more cautious about trusting those I considered my superiors.

One summer day, a family member invited me on a beach trip. My mom had also come down to Saigon, and since I had some free time, I decided to go along. I figured it would be a chance to clear my mind, which had been clouded with so many uncertainties.

That peaceful morning, I walked with my mom along the shore of Cổ Thạch Beach, where the sand was covered with colorful stones and the waves gently rolled in. At some point, without me noticing, my mom stepped into the water, picked up a stone, placed it in my hand, and beamed at me:

“I give you this stone. I wish that you’ll find a job soon.”

Holding the stone in my hand, I felt warmth in my heart. My mom never showed her sadness, but whenever I struggled, she always thought about me more than herself.

The stone wasn’t anything special—neither perfectly round nor smooth. It had a few rough edges and was a deep black color, standing in contrast to the thousands of polished, vibrant stones scattered across the beach. Somehow, my mom had picked this one.

That day, I casually took a few photos of the sea and the stone-covered shore. The next morning, after returning to Saigon, I uploaded the photos to Behance—not expecting much, just treating it as a keepsake.

To my surprise, just a few hours later, I received a message on Behance:

“Hey Vuan,

I checked out your portfolio and really like your work. Are you currently employed at a company at the moment?

Our company is currently looking for graphic designers to join our new eCommerce team.”

Not long after, the stranger who sent that message became one of the most admirable bosses I’ve ever had—marking the beginning of my eight-year journey working with many kind and supportive leaders whom I will never forget.

Looking back now, it all feels surreal. My mom’s simple wish gave me the confidence to embrace new opportunities. And everything naturally unfolded from there, becoming reality.

***

This year, May 12th is Mother’s Day.

May 13th is the day my mom brought me into this world.

I still keep that “wish” close to me.

And a mother’s love—I’ve stored it somewhere it can never be lost.