In Ho Chi Minh City, kindness begins with simple act

The chairs are positioned under the shade of trees by a nearby coffee shop, offering a respite from the sun to those waiting.

When it rains, the café staff move them under the awning, keeping them dry and ensuring bus passengers still have a place to rest.

The idea came from Nguyen Quang Cuong, the younger brother of the café owner, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Anh, 36.

“My brother wishes to support people waiting for the bus,” she shared.

Cuong, a former student who often relied on public buses, recalled how uncomfortable it could be at bus stops without seating, especially for the elderly, who cannot stand for long if they miss a bus.

Noticing that the bus stop near the café lacks seating, he decided to do something about it.

Initially, many people did not dare to sit as they did not purchase anything at the café.

As such, to make them feel welcome, Cuong put up signs on both sides of the chairs clearly stating they are free for anyone to use.

Having lived in Ho Chi Minh City for many years, Cuong has received kindness from the city and simply wants to give back.

He expects his simple yet meaningful act to encourage others to spread kindness.

The café, now three months old, has offered the chairs for nearly as long.

The café operates from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm, so its staff put the chairs out each morning and bring them in at night, aligning almost perfectly with the hours buses run.

In a bustling city where people are often lost in their own routines, such a simple act of generosity stands out.