The beloved General Secretary in memories of Hanoi people

On a scorching summer day more than a decade ago, Tra My walked into a modest tailor's shop in Thanh Xuan District. The place was not dazzling with trendy clothes or stylish dresses. Instead, what caught her eye was a photograph sitting solemnly on a table by the sewing machine.

It was a picture of the shop's tailor standing next to the Party's General Secretary, Nguyen Phu Trong.

General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong meets Hanoi people in early 2017.  Photo: Hanoimoi Newspaper

My couldn't help but feel a surge of curiosity as she looked at the photograph, questions swirling through her mind.

What is the connection between Mr. Trong and the tailor? Why did they capture such a moment in such an ordinary setting? She was curious about the Vietnamese leader's seemingly humble and sincere demeanor.

The tailor's words struck a deep chord in My. "He is my uncle," the tailor replied, her voice a mixture of reverence and affection.

"I love him dearly. He's never been just a leader to us, but a beacon of integrity and guidance. We, his nieces and nephews, have never used our connections with him to gain favors from the authorities because we respect his values and principles. He teaches us to live morally, to persevere in the face of adversity, and to strive for a stable life that contributes to our nation's progress," said the tailor.

"This photo and the story of the tailor have stayed indelible in my memory," My said.

"Whenever I see Mr. Trong on television, I am filled with pride. I was very worried about his health during his illness and was overjoyed to see him back on television, leading the country forward, having witnessed the great changes in Vietnam under his and the Party's leadership," she added.

For the people of Hanoi, the late General Secretary wasn't just a national leader. He was often referred to as "Uncle Trong", a respectful title that only family members give to their parents' brothers.

According to Nguyen Thi Thanh Phuong in Ba Dinh District, calling the General Secretary of the Party in this affectionate way underscores his simplicity and closeness to the people, making an unrelated person a relative.

Phuong recalled her early admiration for "Uncle Trong", likening it to a young person idolizing a hero. "I never thought I would have the chance to meet such a high-ranking leader."

But she did when she attended the National Assembly constituency meetings where the general secretary was a representative.

"I remember vividly the first time he walked into the hall. Everyone stood and applauded. I expected a solemn walk to his seat, but instead he smiled, turned to greet everyone, and shook everyone's hand," Phuong said, noting the lack of distance between him and others in the room.

It felt more like a gathering of friends than a political event, she said.

For me, I felt a heavy sadness when I knew Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong had passed away at the age of 80.

Like many other young Vietnamese, I’d never have the chance to meet General Secretary Trong in person. But the late General Secretary was more than a political figure. He was a symbol of integrity, a man of ideals who dedicated himself to the cause of the entire nation and the Communist Party.

For nearly 40 years, Vietnam has undergone a major transformation from an agriculture-based economy to one driven by industry and services. Amid the global uncertainties of the past decade, the nation has remained steadfast under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, led by General Secretary Trong.

His focus on fighting corruption and fostering transparency in the Party and government apparatus has given hope that Vietnam can achieve greatness through integrity and hard work.

Knowing that he was getting on in years, few could have imagined that he would leave so soon, especially with so many unfinished tasks that still needed his guidance. Mr Trong's death is a great loss for Vietnam.

I believe that although Uncle Trong's heart has stopped, his thoughts, his dignity, and the people's affection for him will live on.

Here is a quote from the late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to remind us that he will always be remembered by the Vietnamese people for his service to the country, his vision will continue to inspire future generations and his spirit will live on in their hearts.

“True happiness is not found in wealth, possessions, exquisite food or fashionable attire. It lies in the richness of the soul, in living surrounded by love, compassion, righteousness and justice.

"Life is lived only once, so it must be meaningful, free from regret or remorse for dishonorable, cowardly and shameless actions. What is the use of accumulating wealth if it cannot accompany you in death? Honor is the most sacred and noble thing!"