I participated in the tour to Vietnam with the group of Japa Vietnam, because I wanted to observe the realities of poverty in that country. I had very rich experiences, but I want to reflect on how much I was able to know the realities of Vietnam as a result of my journey.

In my visit to Nghe An, I went around many families and several churches and observed development programs, like water reservoirs, pig and chicken raising and clinics. My inability to understand Vietnamese and the number of projects to visit did not allow me to interact with people. On the other hand, we were just outside visitors for them. In Phi Loc we received such a big reception that I felt ashamed. Nghe An is one of the poorest provinces and the children were wearing worn-out clothes. Watching the little old children holding small ones in their arms I imagined they were very poor. The clinic was small and had no more than an emergency medical kit a Japanese family may have.

There was something I could not yet forget. In Phi Loc we went to pay a visit to the family of the former pharmacist that is studying medicine near Hanoi thanks to a scholarship of Japa Vietnam. When we were leaving the house Mr. Hai's wife held my hand silently and I couldn't do anything else but smile at her, although there was something special I could feel. I can still remember it.

The tour helped me to understand deeper the great hidden possibilities of the Vietnamese people to develop their country by using their own local strength. I had heard before that the Vietnamese are considered serious workers and inventive people and my experience this time shows it also. Their morals are high and they look respectful. I was quite impressed by the lady doctors of Cao Bang. Many things lack in the poor regions and the present political system cannot solve all problems, but I had the impression that with the help of outside groups, they themselves are capable of changing the bad situations. I want to continue reflecting on my possible tasks.