Lifestyle

The Green Light Challenge: Navigating Ho Chi Minh City’s Traffic Lights

The journey of a character is often a powerful narrative device, and it's one of the first scripts I introduce to my students. It centers on a pivotal event that propels the protagonist out of their comfort zone and onto a path of self-discovery and adventure. This event, a catalyst for change, sets the stage for the character's pursuit of a life goal, be it a physical, emotional, or spiritual quest.

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22 March, 2025

The Daily Commute: A Journey of Self-Discovery

In the bustling streets of [Ho Chi Minh City], amidst the chaos of traffic jams and bustling crowds, lies a deeper story of personal journeys and self-reflection. Each individual navigates their own path, facing challenges and obstacles, both external and internal, as they strive to reach their destination.

The simple goal of escaping the traffic to reunite with family takes on a deeper meaning as it becomes a quest for inner peace. It is a journey fraught with countless hurdles, not just from the external chaos but also from the conflicts that arise within ourselves and those around us.

The city’s roads, clogged with vehicles, present a familiar sight. We find ourselves at intersections, waiting patiently for the red light to turn, only to be met with further delays at the next set of traffic lights. As we navigate our way home, we pass by hundreds of fellow commuters, each with their own story to tell.

The recent implementation of Decree 168, which regulates traffic violations, has brought about a noticeable change. Commuters now adhere strictly to the rules, almost as if they were characters in an art film, where the focus shifts from dramatic events to the subtle expressions of life and the exploration of human emotions.

The city, captured in images with its long lines of vehicles, takes on a unique sense of order and neatness, a stark contrast from before. This new reality evokes a sense of transcendence, a feeling that goes beyond the mere chaos of the streets.

As we move forward, the noise of car horns and the thick city air envelop us, drawing us into a mechanical rhythm. It is a journey not only of physical challenges but also of invisible pressures—impatience, a sense of being trapped, and the overwhelming desire to break free and move ahead.

However, this daily commute also serves as a large-scale rehearsal for society. It teaches us to adjust, accept limitations, and interact with others. It is a journey of self-exploration, where we question our ability to maintain calmness and empathy or whether we will succumb to anger and fatigue.

Screenwriting classes emphasize that the true essence of a story lies not just in the destination but in the experiences of the character along the way. Similarly, our daily commute invites us to look inward. Each red light becomes an opportunity to pause and reflect, each lane change teaches us flexibility and adaptability, and every time we cross the finish line, whether it’s reaching home or merely escaping a chaotic intersection, we take a small yet significant step forward.

The script of our daily commute is filled with potential twists and turns, mirroring the adventures of Master Xuanzang and his disciples in the epic novel ‘Journey to the West.’ Will we make it home in time for our evening activities, or will we encounter unforeseen delays and challenges along the way?

As we eventually return home, we carry with us the lessons learned. We adjust our schedules, leaving earlier for work, altering dinner times, or setting meetings a few minutes later. Through it all, we grow, even if it’s just accepting the reality of our daily commute.

Unlike a film, where the story concludes and the characters’ journeys come to an end, our daily commute is an ongoing narrative. Today’s traffic scenario may come to a close, but tomorrow brings a new set of challenges and opportunities for self-discovery.

As I sit here, enjoying my coffee and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, I reflect on my own journey home. And so, I rush out onto the streets once more, continuing my adventure, one intersection at a time.

Adapted from a Vietnamese article by Trinh Dinh Le Minh, exploring the impact of Decree 168 and how it has influenced commuters’ experiences in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.