Tết đến sau lưng, con bò cũng cười
#### Tết and Its Significance <br/ > <br/ >As the first rays of the sun pierce through the cold winter morning, the air fills with an unmistakable sense of joy and anticipation. This is the time when the Vietnamese people celebrate Tết, their most important holiday. Tết, also known as Vietnamese New Year, is a time of renewal, a time to pay respects to ancestors, and a time to strengthen bonds with family and friends. It is a time when even the cows, as the saying goes, "Tết đến sau lưng, con bò cũng cười" (When Tết comes, even the cows smile), seem to share in the general happiness. <br/ > <br/ >#### The Origin of the Phrase <br/ > <br/ >The phrase "Tết đến sau lưng, con bò cũng cười" is a popular Vietnamese idiom that encapsulates the spirit of Tết. The phrase literally translates to "When Tết comes, even the cows smile". This saying is rooted in the agrarian culture of Vietnam, where cows are considered valuable assets. During Tết, even the hardworking cows get a break from their usual toil, hence the reference to them smiling. This phrase is often used to express the joy and excitement that permeates the atmosphere during Tết. <br/ > <br/ >#### The Celebration of Tết <br/ > <br/ >Tết is a time of grand celebrations in Vietnam. The streets are adorned with colorful decorations, and the air is filled with the aroma of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Families gather together to share meals, exchange gifts, and participate in various cultural activities. The celebration of Tết is not just limited to humans; even animals, as suggested by the phrase "Tết đến sau lưng, con bò cũng cười", partake in the festivities. The cows, for instance, are given a break from work and are often treated with special care during this time. <br/ > <br/ >#### The Symbolism of the Cow <br/ > <br/ >In Vietnamese culture, the cow is a symbol of patience, hard work, and prosperity. The phrase "Tết đến sau lưng, con bò cũng cười" not only reflects the joyous spirit of Tết but also underscores the importance of the cow in Vietnamese society. During Tết, the cows are given a well-deserved rest, symbolizing the end of a year of hard work and the beginning of a new cycle of growth and prosperity. <br/ > <br/ >As the Tết celebrations come to an end, the spirit of joy and renewal lingers on. The phrase "Tết đến sau lưng, con bò cũng cười" serves as a reminder of the simple joys of life and the importance of hard work and perseverance. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people, who, like the smiling cows, face each new year with optimism and hope.