Each of us always has our own memories stored in the deepest and most precious place in our hearts. Those beautiful memories are like brilliant colors, imprinted on each person's mind, making it impossible to forget. I also have my own color, a color called "Duc Tri". This is the place that has been with me since I was a child, creating in me so many beautiful memories of my student days. But if I had to choose the most meaningful memory, I would definitely not hesitate to think of the school lunch because it gives me a feeling of warmth and completeness like a family meal that my mother often cooked.
The bell rang, signaling the end of class, meaning that the lunchtime that we students had been waiting for had arrived. Groups of excited students followed each other down the small hallway, their laughter and chatter non-stop. The stress and fatigue after four long classes seemed to have been blown away by the delicious, nutritious lunches prepared by the teachers. Looking at the square trays of rice neatly placed on the dining table, my stomach couldn't help but rumble. I excitedly sat down at the table with my friends, a bright smile on my face. As soon as I opened the lid of the tray, I could immediately smell the aroma of hot rice and salty meat sauce blending together, creating an irresistible delicious flavor. Our menu was the same every day, consisting of two main dishes, one vegetable dish, and one soup. The dishes were always changed to balance the nutrients and refresh the palate. Occasionally we have some really enjoyable improved meals.
Every time I enjoy school meals, I feel a strangely familiar taste. It gives me a cozy feeling like a home-cooked meal. In particular, the seaweed and tofu soup that the teachers often cook is very similar to my mother's seaweed soup. It reminds me of every night when I have to come home late from school, my mother is always sitting in the kitchen waiting for me with a pot of cold seaweed soup. At times like that, the corners of my eyes get wet without me knowing. The silent sacrifice of the teachers is no different from the hard work of my mother. They always try their best to bring us the best dishes, providing us with energy after class. That makes me love and cherish them even more.
After each meal, students will enjoy desserts such as fruit, coconut jelly, etc., which are not only delicious but also very nutritious, and are extremely loved by our students. Fruit is always fresh and sweet, while coconut jelly is chewy and crunchy, making it an ideal dessert after a meal.
There were also days when the taste of the meal did not suit some of the friends, but everyone ate happily. Simply because we understood that even brothers in the same family had different personalities, let alone the ladies here who had to cook for thousands of people. Meals like that were even more fun and delicious because of the endless stories with the little friends. It was also at this dining table that we confided in each other about many things, and shared many beautiful memories together.
So it has been more than nine years since I have had lunch at Duc Tri School. Yet I have never felt bored. In the future, when I am far away from Duc Tri, I will never forget those wonderful lunches, will never forget the delicious lunches and the sincere care of my dear "mothers".
Le San San – 9/2