Today’s Enlightening Entertainment will be presented in Aulacese (Vietnamese), with subtitles in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Hungarian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Persian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Thai.

Âu Lạc (Vietnam) is a nation that has a long-standing traditional culture. Aulacese music is very rich; since ancient times, there have been many musical instruments that move the soul with a wide variety of sounds like those of the copper drum, gong, lithophone, bamboo xylophone, cymbals and panpipe. In 2003, Elegant Music, a form of Huế royal music, was recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an intangible cultural heritage of the world.

Âu Lạc’s music represents the unique features of each region, for example, Quan Họ folksongs in the North, Huế tunes in the Central, and cải lương (modern folk opera) in the South. In addition, there are many other forms of music, including hò (work songs), lý (village songs), ceremonial songs, Aulacese classical opera, chèo traditional opera, Hồ Quảng opera, and so on.

Indeed, music has been deeply instilled in the hearts of people in this beautiful country, and has been cultivated until this day. Northern Âu Lạc has a folk art called xẩm singing that is very popular in the northern plains and midland. This genre, in the old time, was performed by minstrel bands.

In a gathering with a small group of our Association members some years past, Supreme Master Ching Hai was inspired to spontaneously compose and sing in the xẩm style a poem she had written in her late 20s in Germany. The poem was originally written in English which the poet herself translated into Aulacese.

We now invite you to enjoy an excerpt of the xẩm singing “We Don't Live More Than One Hundred Years!” composed and sung by Supreme Master Ching Hai.

SORRY darling if I could wait no more, I am not a nun, and never want to be so. You don’t wish to share your life, So let me go on my way!

I know you think I am crazy, But what difference will that be? I live my life as I please No matter what others think. Everyone has different things!

On Enlightening Entertainment, Supreme Master Television is pleased to introduce different forms of arts from Âu Lạc (Vietnam), as well as from other countries in the world, in order to share the beauty and cultures of the peoples on our planet.

Chèo traditional opera is a folk theater art which originated from the regions near the mountains and from the plains of northern Âu Lạc. There are varied opinions about the beginning of chèo traditional opera: the earliest time is believed to be in 4th century BCE and the most recent is 14th century, at the end of the Trần dynasty. Chèo is a narrative genre of folk theater, recounting stories through a combination of music, singing and dance.

One of the unique features of chèo is a skillful portrayal of subtle gestures and movements. During festivals, people in the plains of northern Âu Lạc often look forward to watching chèo traditional opera. The lyrics are infused with folk poetry and proverbs; tragedies are usually counter-balanced with satires. Chèo is replete with the pure simplicity of the common folk, yet equally profound in meaning.

The chèo traditional opera “Tấm Cám” is based on a famous Aulacese legend, about Tấm and Cám, two half-sisters with opposite personalities. Similar to the fairy tale “Cinderella” from Europe, the story of “Tấm Cám” is widely told among the Aulacese people. It reflects the concept of “good people attract goodness,” and highlights mercy for the wrongdoers’ lack of unawareness, allowing them to have a chance to repent and make amends.

We now invite you to enjoy part 1 of the Aulacese chèo traditional opera titled “Tấm Cám” by Lưu Quang Thuận. It will presented in 3 episodes,

with performances by Quỳnh Mai as Tấm, Thanh Hường as Cám, Mai Hương as Cám’s Mother, Văn Quân as the Prince, Anh Tuấn as Guard Thìn, Xuân Hải as Village Elder , Mai Trang as Miss Xoan, Huệ Liên as Miss Nụ, Kim Quế as Miss Mận, Mai Lan as Miss Điều, Kim Cúc as Elder Đa , and other artists.

Please join us next Thursday for part 2 on Supreme Master Television.

Thank you for watching today’s Enlightening Entertainment. Please stay tuned to Supreme Master Television. Coming up is Words of Wisdom. May your life be filled with happiness in noble love. Farewell for now, and we’ll see you next week.

Farewell for now, and we’ll see you next week.

Swallows fly high and far on the sky; we’re like flowers in the field. What birds are like flying snowflakes, gently flapping their wings in rolling clouds? O the paddies of our hometown…

Rain or shine, I labor alone all day to pick vegetables in the field. As an orphan, I must endure much hardship. O Xoan, Điều, Mận, Nụ, come! Lots of vegetables here.

O sister Tấm!

We pick and fill our basket with vegetables. Our hearts are happy. These vegetables of all sizes are fresh and delicious. We pick and fill our basket with green vegetables.

O sisters! Today, water is streaming through the canals to paddies. The scent of lush rice wafts through the air. Looking at the rice plants I’m overjoyed, O sisters!

You’re so poetic today.

Is Tấm there?

Someone looks like Elder Đa. Yes, she’s here, Elder.

Greetings, Elder!

Greetings, my children!

You’re not going to the market today, Elder?

I’m skipping the market today to find Tấm for some business.

What is it, Elder?

My children, the festival is not far away.

The festival will start soon.

Tấm can make beautiful phoenix-shaped quids of betel. The elders are asking you to help prepare a few trays for the guests who come from afar to the festival.

Preparing a golden tray of beautiful phoenix- shaped quids of betel for the festival for the guests from afar.

Will you accept?

Accept it, sister Tấm!

The village has entrusted in me; I’d like to accept. Oh, but Elder! Remember to buy the areca and betel from Duyên Hamlet; it’s more fragrant.

You’re so skilled indeed, selecting areca and betel all the way from Duyên Hamlet. All right, children, I’m going back first.

Yes, Elder.

O sister Tấm, every year after our village festival, the girl who prepares betel often gets married far away. I’m afraid of the distance and ferry fee, you won’t visit friends and family.

It’d better to get out of a suffering life with a stepmother.

Why should you endure whippings day and night? Our loving friendship is indescribable, sister Tấm.

Let’s go home, sisters!

Whoever has legs, can just walk home. Why entice others for company? She already has a sister to accompany her.

Her voice can be heard before she comes.

Sour like lemons!

It isn’t lemon if it’s not sour. Don’t irritate my ears with your backbiting.

Cám!

Let me teach her a lesson, sister Tấm.

Please don’t!

Why waste our breath on her? Why bother sitting in the bush to be caught by thorns? Let’s go home, sisters.

We’re going home now, sister Tấm.

O sister Tấm, wait for me! Did you gather a lot of vegetables? Let me see! (Here.) You picked that many! You even got mushrooms?

Yes, mushrooms too.

You’ll be rewarded a pink camisole this time.

Did you find a lot too? Let me see!

Not too bad...

She got a basketful, while I only have a few stalks. What to do now?

O Cám! It’s getting dark. Let us go home.

O sister Tấm! Your hair is muddy. Go wash it in the clear stream, or else you’ll be scolded when you get home.

Wait for me a bit then.

My mom said the reward is a pink camisole, and you believed right away. Don’t you dream of getting a pink camisole! Now that your basket is empty, you’ll surely get thrashed.

O Cám! Where are you? O God! My full basket of vegetables, she took it all. I’ll be whipped unjustly today. Mother and daughter, how wicked! I don’t dream of getting a pink camisole, but only wish for peace with a basketful of vegetables. When will the misery of my life end?

O Tấm!

Whose voice is it? It’s so loving like my mom’s lullaby in my childhood. Oh, who are you?

I’m the Buddha. Don’t cry anymore, child. Though the vegetables are gone, I’ll give you a small goby. Take him home and raise him in the well. Take good care of him so as not to betray my love. Twice a day, sprinkle rice over the well and call: “O Goby, Goby, small and good. Come up to eat red and golden rice. O Goby, Goby.” Did you hear me clearly?

Yes, I did. O Goby, round body, small eyes, long tail and scales as shiny as glass. An orphan, I’ve endured all sorts of hardship. Come home with me and grow up fast. O cute Goby! Come home with me, sweet Goby. You’ll be happy in the clear, cool well water.

The cruel whipping three days ago still hurts now. But everyday, when I gaze down the deep well, and see Goby, my sorrow dissolves. O Goby! Come up and eat so I can go to cut some grass. “O Goby, Goby, small and good. Come up to eat red and golden rice. O Goby, Goby.” My rice is the good rice from hard labor that I saved for you. O Goby, Goby! Graceful Goby, sweet Goby! O Goby, you’re growing as days go by. In the crystal clear water, you swim effortlessly. Grow and be good, Goby. You swim happily, reflecting my face. Graceful Goby, sweet Goby! Seeing you swim happily...

Tấm! Why are you at the well so early? Stepmother, I’m about to cut the grass.

Cutting grass? With a bowl of rice?

Go tend the buffalo today instead. I’ve prepared a pack of rice for you. Remember to let the buffalo graze far away, or else we’ll be fined by the village. Here’s the rice. Take it and go tend the buffalo early, child!

Yes, stepmother.

Tấm! When you pass the dense bush, avoid thorny branches. Rest in the shade at noon, all right?

Yes, stepmother.

See? I told you.

Go get me the basket. Sprinkle the rice and call him up!

O Goby, Goby, small and good. Come up to eat my gold and silver rice. Don’t eat other people’s old rice and stale porridge. O Goby, Goby.

Why didn’t he come up? Try to remember how Tấm called him.

I remember now.

Call him!

O Goby, Goby, small and good. Come up to eat red and golden rice. O Goby, Goby.

Call now before he disappears again.

My rice is the good rice from hard labor that I saved for you. O Goby, Goby!

Here he is!

O Goby, Goby, small and good. I’m furious looking at you. My rice has been wasted on you. I’ll barbecue you.

She’s raised the fish in the well.

She’s raised the fish in the well. We’ll have a good meal today.

The buffalo grazed far from the village. I missed you at noon, Goby. I missed you more in the evening. O Goby, come up for rice, little one! O Goby, Goby, small and good . Come up to eat red and golden rice. O Goby, Goby. Are you mad at me, Goby? It took me so long today, because the buffalo had to graze far away. Ah, I gathered some water fern flowers just for you. My rice is the good rice from hard labor that I saved for you. O Goby, Goby. O God! A puddle of blood on the well’s surface. This morning, Goby still swam carefree. It’s heart-wrenching to see sweet Goby’s blood on the water. Why this disaster, O God! Where is my Goby? My heart is anguished.

O Tấm! Cry no more. Pick up and save Goby’s bones in a jar, then bury at the foot of your bed. Goby’s gone, but his bones remain. He’ll repay your kindness some day.

Buddha told me to find the bones, put in a jar and bury at the foot of my bed. But where can I find Goby’s bones?

Winter’s over; spring’s here. Winter has just passed. January arrives with a festival for the villagers to enjoy.

Xoan, Điều!

There you are, sister Tấm!

Here are your outfit and scarf.

How beautiful!

Friends are lending you the outfit. A pink dress of flying clouds, a yellow scarf of freshly woven fabric, and the chin strap for your hat will adorn you, someone beautiful inside and out. Who wouldn’t love your fragrant and beautifully prepared phoenix-shaped betel? Whoever eats this betel can’t forget the lovely and virtuous girl.

Greetings, ma’am! Please allow Tấm go to the festival with us.

Look! Don’t you people have anything to do besides coming to entice our people to a party and such. You form a band of young women, and even bring a dress and scarf here. My family doesn’t need borrow from anyone.

Tấm, return the outfit and scarf to them. It’s better to wear what you have. You’re not that desperate to borrow clothes. Your look is more important than the outfit at the festival.

Sister Tấm, just wear it!

She’d still look smeared all over even if wrapped in five-color cloud. What are those betels for?

It’s for the festival.

But who prepared them?

People from our village, of course.

Let me see. (You can’t.)

Cám! You shouldn’t do that. These are betels the villagers asked me to prepare.

You see, Mom!

That’s right. The village asked for your sister’s help because she’s skillful. All right, you two go first. We three will go later.

We’re going first, sister Tấm.

Respected Stepmother, I stayed up late last night to pound the rice, dice the water ferns and cook the bran. I filled up two vats of water and tidied up the house, inside and out.

Not yet! The house isn’t all that tidy. You were so rushed to go to the festival and mistakenly mixed the husked rice with the unhusked. There aren’t that many chores to do. I’d be blamed as cruel if I say too much.

I already finished it yesterday. The husked rice I put in the outer quarter, and the unhusked in the inner quarter.

Feigning innocence?

What is this, then? Who did this?

Who else takes care of the rice in this house but you?

Respected Stepmother, the festival opens today, even the homeless are having a good time. I’ve endured much hardship. You shouldn’t ill-treat and confine me on the festive day.

How dare you!

Ill-treating! Confining! You’re good at twisting your tongue. Who else takes care of the rice but you? You even argue back and forth.

This is for arguing.

I beg you, Stepmother.

Fine, separate the husked and unhusked grains, then you may go. The festival is open all day.

Separate all the husked and unhusked rice, then go, or else Xoan and Điều are waiting for you. Let’s leave for the festival, Mom!

We’re inferior to none at this festival, attires in bright colors of springtime.

They are so merciless as to mistreat me on this festive day. Looking at the rice, I’m heart-broken. I’ve suffered so much hardship. How could they be so wicked and mix white rice with yellow grains? I’ve folded fragrant betels from the Hamlet of Grace in a phoenix shape. But am I without grace? I’ve labored hard year-round. On a festival, I must still sit here separating grains. I might as well leave it here and go. Either way I’ve suffered 12 months a year. But people go to the festival in beautiful clothes, while I’m worn out and tattered. O Mom!

O Tấm! Cry no more, child. Get up and go to the festival! The wicked have mistreated you. Since you’re pure-hearted, the loving sparrows come to help you separate the grains. Now, go dig up the jar of Goby’s bones for me!

Who is the weaver? Who is the spinner? Who is the tailor? Who dyes the fabric? Where is the dress? Let Tấm have it quickly to wear! Lovely and graceful, Tấm is a kind and honest girl. She has endured hardship for years. This outfit is a gift for her.

So beautiful!

It’s already late, so ride the horse to the festival, sweet child!

Yes, Buddha.

Pretty birds, gentle wings. Thank you, sparrows, small and kind. You must have understood my plight. Your favor I’ll always remember. Pretty birds, help me separate the husked and unhusked rice. I’m going to the festival. With these shoes, I look even more graceful.

Let’s go to the festival, sisters!

Quickly, children! Our village’s festival this year is quite elaborate. Hurry up, children! Our village’s festival this year is so grand.

Attention! People from the right and left of the riverbank, men in the east and women in the west! Our village’s festival this year has commenced. There are many exciting entertainments. Come and watch the young men perform a drum dance. Attention, everyone!

It’s a drum dance! You did a very good job!

Very nice!

What’s so good about that noisy game! Let’s go to the riverbank to watch the boat racing contest.

Look at that! It’s incredible!

Attention, everyone! We’ve just watched the young men perform the drum dance. Now, we welcome the ribbon dance by the young women of Apricot Village.

Come out to dance, children!

But Elder, Tấm is still missing.

Tấm isn’t here? Go bring her here then.

Oh here she comes!

Your outfit is so beautiful, sister Tấm.

Greetings, Elder!

O Tấm, where did you go, leaving your friends waiting? I’ve also been very much expecting you. All right, go ahead and dance, children.

Yes, Elder.

Let’s dance, sister Tấm! Who causes the rice to ripen? The rice plants are laden with blossoms. I’m waiting for your return to help me harvest the rice. Whom am I longing for? My pining is three-, four-fold. My yearning is nine-, ten-fold.

Beautiful! Good job!

Our festival has much entertainment. Whoever wants to watch the boat racing contest can go to the riverbank now. Whoever stays can watch the archery contest.

O Elder, I’m going to the riverbank to watch boat racing.

Yes, you can go there first.

Yes, Elder.

See you later, sister Tấm.

There! The red circle is hung from the fir tree. Contestants have to consider the wind speed. Five square meters of red cloth for whoever makes it three times right in the red circle. Young men of the mountainous land, raise your bows to lift the festival’s spirit.

Shoot now!

May I try first, Elder?

Sure, go ahead, son!

Ah, he missed it.

Ah! He missed it too!

May I demonstrate my skill, Elder?

Certainly! Go ahead, son!

He didn’t make it!

You missed by a lot, son!

Any other lad who wants to give it a try? Go ahead, children.

Come in, son!

Today’s Enlightening Entertainment will be presented in Aulacese (Vietnamese), with subtitles in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Hungarian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Persian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Thai.

Âu Lạc (Vietnam) is a nation that has a long-standing traditional culture. Aulacese music is very rich; since ancient times, there have been many musical instruments that move the soul with a wide variety of sounds like those of the copper drum, gong, lithophone, bamboo xylophone, cymbals and panpipe. In 2003, Elegant Music, a form of Huế royal music, was recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an intangible cultural heritage of the world.

Âu Lạc’s music represents the unique features of each region, for example, Quan Họ folksongs in the North, Huế tunes in the Central, and cải lương (modern folk opera) in the South. In addition, there are many other forms of music, including hò (work songs), lý (village songs), ceremonial songs, Aulacese classical opera, chèo traditional opera, Hồ Quảng opera, and so on.

Indeed, music has been deeply instilled in the hearts of people in this beautiful country, and has been cultivated until this day. Northern Âu Lạc has a folk art called xẩm singing that is very popular in the northern plains and midland. This genre, in the old time, was performed by minstrel bands.

In a gathering with a small group of our Association members some years past, Supreme Master Ching Hai was inspired to spontaneously compose and sing in the xẩm style a poem she had written in her late 20s in Germany. The poem was originally written in English which the poet herself translated into Aulacese.

We now invite you to enjoy an excerpt of the xẩm singing “We Don't Live More Than One Hundred Years!” composed and sung by Supreme Master Ching Hai.

I mean tonight I was nuts! But so what: Aren’t the rest of us!... Otherwise how could we carry on living, For life isn’t worth a thing!?

You know that I am still in love with you! But that has nothing to do... I cannot please everybody, So I will please me! That doesn’t mean you are not right; We all have only one life!

On Enlightening Entertainment, Supreme Master Television is pleased to introduce different forms of arts from Âu Lạc (Vietnam), as well as from other countries in the world, in order to share the beauty and cultures of the peoples on our planet.

Chèo traditional opera is a folk theater art which originated from the regions near the mountains and from the plains of northern Âu Lạc. There are varied opinions about the beginning of chèo traditional opera: the earliest time is believed to be in 4th century BCE and the most recent is 14th century, at the end of the Trần dynasty. Chèo is a narrative genre of folk theater, recounting stories through a combination of music, singing and dance.

One of the unique features of chèo is a skillful portrayal of subtle gestures and movements. During festivals, people in the plains of northern Âu Lạc often look forward to watching chèo traditional opera. The lyrics are infused with folk poetry and proverbs; tragedies are usually counter-balanced with satires. Chèo is replete with the pure simplicity of the common folk, yet equally profound in meaning.

The chèo traditional opera “Tấm Cám” is based on a famous Aulacese legend, about Tấm and Cám, two half-sisters with opposite personalities. Similar to the fairy tale “Cinderella” from Europe, the story of “Tấm Cám” is widely told among the Aulacese people. It reflects the concept of “good people attract goodness,” and highlights mercy for the wrongdoers’ lack of awareness, allowing them to have a chance to repent and make amends.

We now invite you to enjoy part 2 of the Aulacese chèo traditional opera titled “Tấm Cám” by Lưu Quang Thuận,

with performances by Quỳnh Mai as Tấm, Thanh Hường as Cám, Mai Hương as Cám’s Mother, Văn Quân as the Prince, Anh Tuấn as Guard Thìn, Xuân Hải as Village Elder , Mai Trang as Miss Xoan, Huệ Liên as Miss Nụ, Kim Quế as Miss Mận, Mai Lan as Miss Điều, Kim Cúc as Elder Đa , and other artists.

Please join us next Thursday for the conclusion on Supreme Master Television.

Thank you for watching today’s Enlightening Entertainment. Please stay tuned to Supreme Master Television. Coming up is Words of Wisdom. So long for now, and we’ll see you next week.

In the previous episode, diligent Tấm was able to gather lots of vegetables but was tricked by Cám to be left with none. She cried in self-pity, knowing that upon coming home, she'd be punished by her stepmother. To comfort her, the Buddha appeared and gave her a small goby for company. One day, when Tấm was away to tend the buffalo, the stepmother and Cám harmed the goby. When Tấm returned and called her fish to come up for his meal, she knew that her best friend had met with misfortune.

As she was crying, the Buddha appeared and advised Tấm to find the goby's bones to put into a jar and bury under the foot of the bed. On the day of the festival, not wishing to allow Tấm to go, the stepmother mixed the husked and unhusked rice so Tấm had to stay home to separate them. Once again, the Buddha appeared and sent sparrows to help Tấm sort the grains. The Buddha also gave her a beautiful outfit and shoes to attend the village festival.

Greetings, elders. Greetings, kind and young friends. I’m a visitor from afar coming to the countryside for the festival. Allow me to give the target a try.

Sure. Go ahead, please!

Right on target! He did it again!

Very good! Try better, young man!

Please move the target 30 meters farther. I’d like to shoot the last arrow.

Another 30 meters? All right. Target handler! Place the target 30 meters away. It’s ready now. Go ahead, please.

He made it.

He made it? It’s right on target?

Where is Elder Đa? Please offer the visitor a phoenix-shaped quid of betel.

You’re passing by our village for the festival. We’d like to offer you a fragrant quid of betel.

The betel quid prepared neatly in the shape of a soaring phoenix. (Soaring.) I must praise the hands that lend power to the phoenix’s freedom.

Attention, everyone! We invite you all to the riverbank to watch the boat racing contest. Attention, everyone!

Let’s go watch boat racing.

Go watch boat racing, children.

This way, please.

Have a good time, Elder.

Where are you, Thìn? (Yes.) Bring the horse here.

Yes. Go! Go! Oh God! Your Highness, Your Highness!

What is it?

It’s very strange. The white horse has gone insane. He refused to step onto the bridge but whinnied in high pitch for a while, then he lowered his body and sat on his knees until now. Even though I’m a highly skilled horse keeper, this stubborn horse has driven me crazy.

I’m familiar with this great horse since childhood. He’d go up hill or down dale obediently. If he kneels at this easy bridge and gentle stream, there must be a hidden reason.

Your Highness, I have no heart to watch you worry. The stream is shallow. Let me find out what is down there.

All right, go check it out.

Yes, Your Highness. Oh, my, my! The water is so cool! Ah! I’ve found it. A shoe embroidered with five-colored threads. It got stuck at the bridge pier. Your Highness, this shoe probably belongs to a festival goer who dropped it on her way.

A dropped shoe is just an accident. Why does the great horse kneel by the stream? How come my heart stirs all of a sudden? She’s like a bird in the sky, a fish in the water, where can I find her?

Your Highness, though festival goers are many, that person must be among them. Even if she’s gone far, you still have her shoe.

May I ask you, silver-haired elder: How can we find someone in the festival?

Your Highness, the small embroidered shoe will fit well the foot of its owner. Please have Mr. Thìn announce for everyone to come try the shoe.

You’re right. Thìn? (Yes.) Borrow a loudspeaker to make the announcement. (Yes.) This is perhaps a predestined affinity. I vow to tie a marital bond with the one whose foot fits the shoe, if she isn’t yet engaged to anyone.

This way, Your Highness!

May I borrow the loudspeaker? Attention, everyone! O women festival goers! Come to the bridge to try on the embroidered shoe. Anyone whose foot fits the shoe will be welcomed to the capital and become the Prince’s wife. Attention, everyone!

O sisters! Come try on the shoe. What a beautiful shoe!

Younger sisters! This small shoe creates a marriage affinity for a graceful country girl. Please come in to try on the shoe.

O Uncle! May I try it on?

Please do! Goodness! What giant feet! No, it doesn’t fit. Next one, please.

Can I try it, Uncle?

Sure, come in, please. Gee! Too tiny! Doesn’t fit. Next one!

O Uncle! (What is it?) Allow my niece, Tiny, to try on the shoe a little.

This young lady might make it! Come in, come in!

Oh, my! It’s so pretty. Come in here, child. This is truly a wonderful affinity. I’ve spent years polishing your looks. If that shoe fits this foot, my daughter will be the Prince’s wife. Go in to try it, sweetie!

Mister! (What is it?) Try the shoe on me. (Yes.) Then, go report to the Prince.

She hasn’t tried it but already wants to report.

Goodness! She hasn’t tried it but already wants to report. Well, Miss, you want to try on the shoe too? (Yes.) Yes, sure. Here it is. Goodness, what kind of foot is this! Look, everyone! Who cast such feet with protruding ankles? (Protruding ankles.) Some toes are horn nuts, others lime spatulas. (Lime spatulas.) Toe nails are like sharp knives. (Sharp knives.) Some toes bulge like a hill. (A hill.) Miss, may I ask if your mother ate a lot while bearing you as a child?

How do you know that?

My goodness! No wonder your feet look so smooth like ginger roots.

Enough! Just try the shoe on for me!

Fine, I will. Take a careful look, everyone. This is indeed the bogey’s foot with nine straps.

O sweetie! Is your foot too big or too small?

Ma’am, it’s neither too big nor too small. It just simply, totally… doesn’t fit. Anyone else wants to try?

O Mister! Or perhaps...

What now?

Let me try it.

Good God! You want to try on the shoe too? Yes, feel free, ma’am. Oh my! Woe to me! Please bend down this sky-pointed toe for me. Bend down, down, down! Fine then. Bent or not, try it on anyway! Try, try, try!

Enough! You’ve fractured my toes.

Awful! Did you have fun?

Her feet are like banana bulbs. Seeing people trying, she also wants to try. Well, respected elder, you’re welcome to try again, and go to the capital to be the Prince’s great grandmother. (Stop it!) Now, anyone else wants to try? That young lady! Come, come.

O Elder! Sister Tấm hasn’t tried it.

Go find and bring Tấm here.

Yes, Elder.

Sister Tấm!

Mother, Tấm’s here.

Greetings, Elder.

Go try on the shoe, child.

How could she get here that early? And where did she get such a beautiful outfit? When she goes home this time...

This is the shoe I dropped in the stream, so it must fit my foot. O Buddha, I feel so confused. If the shoe fits my foot, what will come next?

Come try on the shoe, Miss!

Go try it on, child!

For Heaven’s sake! Even a bell and musical stone are no match, much less a cast-off piece of broken earth pot.

Ignore her! Just come try it on.

Tấm, don’t be afraid. Just go try it on.

Go try it on, sister Tấm!

Yes.

Mom!

Let’s go home.

Ah, it fits! It fits!

O Elder, it’s the shoe that I dropped. Here is the other shoe.

Oh! You have the other shoe too? O mister, she has the other one too.

Really? Listen, everyone! Do you know who shot three arrows right on the target?

Who is he, mister?

He’s the Prince.

It’s the Prince, child!

His Highness is coming.

Here comes the Prince!

It’s our first meeting; I know not your name. How old are you? Do you have any relatives remaining? Your eyes are clear, a stream of flowing hair. Are you yet betrothed to anyone?

Tấm! The Prince asked you. Answer him, child.

Answer the Prince, sister Tấm!

Your Highness, I’m Tấm of the remote Mai village. I’ve seen 18 springs; my parents passed away long ago. As an orphan, I’ve endured rain and shine. I’m not yet engaged to anyone.

A grain of rice from Mai village, my life is like a grain of rice in Mai village, waiting for a day when a shoe brings about a harmonious marriage. In my hometown, the stream meanders around the hill.

You follow the stream that leads you to the bridge. Our hometown loves Tấm. We watch Tấm leave us for her sweet bond of love. A path of life adorned with myriad flowers. The good bird has fully grown. It takes wing, flying far away.

She’s risen overnight to the noble rank, as the King’s daughter-in-law for four months already. My daughter and I are in this village corner, unable to swallow our meals. My daughter is sulking from envy, while I am... I’m really boiling with anger. Today is her father’s death anniversary. When she comes back, I’ll...

O Mom! My sister Tấm is here now.

Really? Bring your sister in.

Greetings, Stepmother.

There you are, Tấm. I’ve been waiting; I thought you wouldn’t return. Where is the Prince, sweetie?

He didn’t feel well from his trip yesterday, so he had the soldiers escort me here to visit you and my sister. So, are you both well?

I’m fine.

Mr. Thìn, bring the gifts in here.

Tấm, since you’re back for your father’s death anniversary, it’s only right that you stay here a few days with us. Just tell the soldiers to go back and come for you in a few days. (Yes.)

Mr. Thìn! (Yes.) Tell the soldiers to go back for now, and report to the Prince that I’ll stay here. They can come for me in a few days.

Yes, but...

It’s all right. Just go!

Yes, Your Highness.

Look, children! Go prepare to pay worship to your father soon, then tonight you two can talk to your hearts’ content. Go inside, children. (Yes.)

Yes, Stepmother.

She asked me how I am. She looks lovely like a freshly opened peach blossom, yet I feel like I’m rubbed by salt and pierced by needles. Your stepmother is still as strong as a tiger. I walk firmly, speak discreetly, act promptly. All four corners in the backyard are quiet, yet I feel my inside burning hot. Get rid of the chewed betel quid, and no one will know anything. May the deities in ten directions witness this.

O Mom! Who do we invite to Dad’s death anniversary today?

What for? Tấm is back today; the more deserted the house, the better it is.

The festival unexpectedly led to my happy marriage. O clear well, I’m back now. Before, I was like a tormented hay and weed. Now I’m happy, flowers adorning my hair. Back in my home village, this small yard and well, I remember when I alone carried the heavy water buckets back and forth. Before, when Goby swam freely here, I used to talk to Goby. How I miss him! I didn’t expect to leave home on the festival day to follow you.

I miss my hometown. The well asks for you; it longs for your visit.

You good-for-nothing! You can’t even do just that. Your older sister just came home. She’s tired. How can she climb the tree?

Why are you scolding my sister?

Tấm, the betels for offering, you prepared very nicely. As for the areca, I’m not quite pleased. Help your sister climb the tree to pick young areca! There’s a bunch laden with areca nuts by the pond.

Cám! Why are you crying?

I fell down when climbing the areca tree. In our family, only you’re used to climbing trees. But you’re now a beautiful lady in luxurious clothes, it’s difficult to climb an areca tree.

O Cám, what’s difficult about it! I love our father and am back for his death anniversary. I wouldn’t mind climbing up high. Stepmother, I’m going to gather areca nuts by the pond. Please wait for me a moment.

Tấm! (Yes.) Take off your gown to climb easily, child!

Yes, Stepmother.

The areca trunk is mold-white. Who could fathom my heart? She climbs up high; I’ll let her fall into the deep pond.

Mom, what if the villagers find out?

Who’s here to know? Only after she dies, can we rise to wealth and honor. You’ll be the King’s daughter-in-law, and I’ll be the Prince’s mother-in-law. We’ll both enjoy a good life.

No, Mom, I beg you!

Let me go! (I beg you, Mom!) Let me go! (Mom!)

What are you doing at the tree’s foot, Stepmother?

I’m just chasing the ants away for you.

O Stepmother!

It’s done! She’s dead in the pond. The water swirls, the wind blows, and yellow leaves rustle. Water bubbles are settled. Who’d realize my deep-laid scheme? Who’d know about my act?

O Mom, what are we to do now?

I’ll fish her out, and bury her at night. We’ll leave for the capital at dawn. We’ll say that she caught a cold and died suddenly. (Mom!) Her younger sister will replace her instead. (Mom!)

Your life is over in the cold and deep pond. There’s Cám, a fragrant flower freshly blossoms, for the Prince to pamper. Go change your clothes; we’ll set out early. Cám will now replace Tấm. A clever plot, secretly carried out! Who’d know it?

I miss your washing clothes by the lake, with wafting lotus scent and rippling water. You passed away, the lotus are left to wilt and my heart to wither and dry up. I’m alone in the cold chamber behind the bamboo shade. My pain is so deep. Where are you now, beloved? Your flowery shoes I save as a remnant of your love. I miss your soft voice at night. My heart remains faithful to you. The front veranda and back garden are all quiet. I feel as if you are still walking in and out.

Oh, missing you, I sing a song of anguish. Having now remarried, do you still remember the person of old?

O Oriole! The bird’s earnest song has stirred the air in early morning.

Your Highness!

My child! (Mom!) The Prince went to Lạc Dương Mountain yesterday. You went after him on horseback. Did you catch up with him?

I got there when the Prince was set to return.

Did you go back with him?

No, Mom! On the way back, our horses were side by side, but for eight miles long, he only gazed at the cloud. I lament my lot day and night in this place. Without love, I’m afraid my riches and honor won’t last.

Just persevere. Even wood and stone will soften with time. Besides, your appearance is lovely. You must know how to fuel a fire. It’s sunny today. The Prince is taking a stroll around the lake. He probably will come back and sit here to play his flute. Just listen to me. Go make yourself beautiful like a fairy, then come out and talk to the Prince. Just do as you did yesterday and the day before.

But his being indifferent makes me feel self-pity.

A naive person like you is rare indeed. If I were still young like you, let alone one prince, even ten princes, I’d make them fall madly in love with me. (Mom!)

Now, go in and groom yourself.

Yes, Mom.

Thìn! (Yes.) Where are you going?

Respected great grandma, I am going to bring the Prince back, and play the flute to relieve his sorrow.

Is the Prince still sad?

Yes. A gentleman whose countenance is so gloomy that even stones feel pity for him. This morning I had to wake up early to entertain him to ease his depression.

How did you entertain him?

I played a monkey eating betels.

Mr. Thìn! (Yes.) The dishes I cooked and asked you to bring to the Prince yesterday evening, did His Highness make any comment?

I think they were all good, but what I liked best was the roasted one.

Did the Prince say so?

Oh, no.

Then, how do you know?

Because I ate it myself.

You dare? I’ll go report to the Prince.

Wait, wait! Respected ma’am, it’s like this. The Prince didn’t eat; he told me to have it. Besides, it takes so much effort and money to prepare these dishes, if even I dislike it, it’s a big waste.

Thìn! (Yes.) The Prince is my son-in-law. (Right!) I must take care of his nourishment. (Correct!) And you... (Yes.) Choose your words when speaking to me, you hear?

Yes, ma’am.

She’s indeed a monkey eating betel. Goodness! Here comes the daughter. Awful! Such mincing steps she takes! For God’s sake! She even preens herself. All right, let me play a joke on you, to lessen my resentment.

O beloved Prince! You’re at the age to enjoy married life. I’m 16, still brimming of youth. We’re not far apart; why make me wait for you? Why deny a fresh flower of passion? O Prince! I’m like a rain-soaked shirt; you’re like a kitchen fire. I’ve come to warm myself. I’m like a rain-soaked shirt.

You’re like a kitchen fire for me to come in to warm my hands. O beloved Prince! Let me kindle love and deepen our bond. Let me kindle love and deepen our bond. O beloved Prince!

My God! You sang very nice!

Why are you sitting here?

Your Highness, I sit here playing the flute for the Prince in there to listen.

I asked, why are you sitting here?

I finished playing the flute already. Now I’ll bring his robe to wash at the lake.

How dare you wear His Highness’ robe?

I’m holding His Highness’ robe. Am I supposed to throw it on the ground if I don’t put it on? But if I let his robe drop on the ground, it’s disrespectful to him.

How dare you mislead me into mistaking you as the Prince!

Goodness! I’m bearded like this, and someone mistook me as the Prince. It’s just because you’re deeply in love with the Prince that you took a chicken for a phoenix. Allow me to go wash the robe.

Wait! Go do other chores. Let me wash the robe, and remember to tell the Prince right away that I myself washed his robe for him, you hear? (Yes.)

Goodness! How can that kind of hand wash anything? She probably just dips it in the water once. If you like to wash, go ahead then.

Today’s Enlightening Entertainment will be presented in Aulacese (Vietnamese), with subtitles in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Hungarian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Persian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Thai.

Âu Lạc (Vietnam) is a nation that has a long-standing traditional culture. Aulacese music is very rich; since ancient times, there have been many musical instruments that move the soul with a wide variety of sounds like those of the copper drum, gong, lithophone, bamboo xylophone, cymbals and panpipe. In 2003, Elegant Music, a form of Huế royal music, was recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an intangible cultural heritage of the world.

Âu Lạc’s music represents the unique features of each region, for example, Quan Họ folksongs in the North, Huế tunes in the Central, and cải lương (modern folk opera) in the South. In addition, there are many other forms of music, including hò (work songs), lý (village songs), ceremonial songs, Aulacese classical opera, chèo traditional opera, Hồ Quảng opera, and so on. Indeed, music has been deeply instilled in the hearts of people in this beautiful country, and has been cultivated until this day.

Northern Âu Lạc has a folk art called xẩm singing that is very popular in the northern plains and midland. This genre, in the old time, was performed by minstrel bands.

In a gathering with a small group of our Association members some years past, Supreme Master Ching Hai was inspired to spontaneously compose and sing in the xẩm style a poem she had written in her late 20s in Germany. The poem was originally written in English which the poet herself translated into Aulacese.

We now invite you to enjoy an excerpt of the xẩm singing “We Don't Live More Than One Hundred Years!” composed and sung by Supreme Master Ching Hai.

I mean tonight I was nuts! But so what: Aren’t the rest of us!... Otherwise how could we carry on living, For life isn’t worth a thing!?

You know that I am still in love with you! But that has nothing to do... I cannot please everybody, So I will please me! That doesn’t mean you are not right; We all have only one life!

On Enlightening Entertainment, Supreme Master Television is pleased to introduce different forms of arts from Âu Lạc (Vietnam), as well as from other countries in the world, in order to share the beauty and cultures of the peoples on our planet.

Chèo traditional opera is a folk theater art which originated from the regions near the mountains and from the plains of northern Âu Lạc. There are varied opinions about the beginning of chèo traditional opera: the earliest time is believed to be in 4th century BCE and the most recent is 14th century, at the end of the Trần dynasty.

Chèo is a narrative genre of folk theater, recounting stories through a combination of music, singing and dance. One of the unique features of chèo is a skillful portrayal of subtle gestures and movements. During festivals, people in the plains of northern Âu Lạc often look forward to watching chèo traditional opera. The lyrics are infused with folk poetry and proverbs; tragedies are usually counter-balanced with satires. Chèo is replete with the pure simplicity of the common folk, yet equally profound in meaning.

The chèo traditional opera “Tấm Cám” is based on a famous Aulacese legend, about Tấm and Cám, two half-sisters with opposite personalities. Similar to the fairy tale “Cinderella” from Europe, the story of “Tấm Cám” is widely told among the Aulacese people. It reflects the concept of “good people attract goodness,” and highlights mercy for the wrongdoers’ lack of awareness, allowing them to have a chance to repent and make amends.

We now invite you to enjoy the conclusion of the Aulacese chèo traditional opera titled “Tấm Cám” by Lưu Quang Thuận,

with performances by Quỳnh Mai as Tấm, Thanh Hường as Cám, Mai Hương as Cám’s Mother, Văn Quân as the Prince, Anh Tuấn as Guard Thìn , Xuân Hải as Village Elder , Mai Trang as Miss Xoan, Huệ Liên as Miss Nụ, Kim Quế as Miss Mận, Mai Lan as Miss Điều, Kim Cúc as Elder Đa , and other artists.

In the previous episodes, Tấm was able to gather lots of vegetables but was tricked by Cám to be left with none, she cried in self-pity. To comfort her, the Buddha appeared and gave her a small goby for company.

On the day of the festival, not wishing to allow Tấm to go, the stepmother mixed the husked and unhusked rice so Tấm had to stay home. Once again, the Buddha appeared and sent sparrows to help Tấm sort the grains. The Buddha also gave her a beautiful outfit and shoes to attend the village festival. At the festival, in an archery contest, only the Prince succeeded in getting the target. During the bustling excitement, the Prince’s attendant found a pretty shoe someone had dropped in the stream.

The Prince ordered a shoe-fitting session; Tấm became his wife because the shoe matched her foot. One day, Tấm returned to her home village for her father’s anniversary of passing. The stepmother told Tấm to climb the tree to get some areca nuts but chopped it down to harm her. She then brought Cám to the palace to replace Tấm.

Supreme Master Ching Hai lovingly sent gifts to the artists and professionals contributing to the Aulacese chèo traditional opera “Tấm Cám,” broadcast on Supreme Master Television. They shared their thoughts and expressed their appreciation for Master’s generosity and kindness.

The opera “Tấm Cám” is a popular legend of Âu Lạc. Perhaps the Aulacese from young to old all know the story “Tấm Cám.” It speaks of morality, way of life and human dignity which are especially valued by the Aulacese people; therefore, the legend “Tấm Cám,” though an ancient tale, still exists to this day.

This is the first time I watched a video that conveys some highlights about Supreme Master Ching Hai, but we can clearly realize Master’s noble heart toward humanity, including the animals and nature. She has a very compassionate, generous and very pure heart. We’re very touched by Master’s deeds for humanity in the world. On New Year 2010, on behalf of the artists and actors, I wish Master good health, peace and prosperity, and I very much hope to meet Master.

Opera actress Quỳnh Mai, in the role of Tấm:

Upon taking the role of Tấm, I felt that Tấm has a strong will and is perseverant. I think that if every person would try to overcome hardship then goodness will be waiting for us ahead. Today, having received gifts from Supreme Master Ching Hai, I’m really very touched by Master’s noble and very benevolent heart. I respectfully wish Supreme Master Ching Hai great health so as to carry out many beneficial works for the world. I would like to dedicate to Supreme Master Ching Hai the song “A Grain of Rice from Mai Village” from the chèo opera “Tấm Cám.”

A grain of rice from Mai village, my life is like a grain of rice in Mai village, waiting for a day when a shoe brings about a harmonious marriage. In my hometown, the stream meanders around the hill. O love, the stream meanders around the hill. In my hometown, the stream meanders around the hill. You follow the stream that leads you to the bridge. Our hometown loves Tấm. We watch Tấm leave us for her sweet bond of love. A path of life adorned with myriad flowers. The good bird has fully grown. It takes wing, flying far away.

Opera actress Quỳnh Mai and actor Văn Quân, in the role of the Prince, respectfully dedicated to Supreme Master Ching Hai a classic chèo song “A Gentleman Changes Not His Heart” from the chèo opera “The Tale of Lưu Bình and Dương Lễ”:

O darling! Keeping moral principles means knowing how to be flexible.

My love! As I leave you now, may Heaven witness my vow of faithfulness to you. Thinking of our time of tender happiness together, my heart aches upon our sudden separation.

I love my friend, wanting to share both good and bad times with him. Fear not your reputation be blemished as you take leave. Don’t bewail lest I feel even more worried. It’s painful to part with my love, yet I can’t be indifferent to my gentle friend.

I won’t forget my purpose. I just feel sad, thinking of the many winter evenings when I stand at the door longing for you. How distressing when spouses are apart! Summer passes, winter comes, I’ll be alone in my chamber. Youth withers away in pining and waiting. Our marriage is a lifetime bond. Faraway, would you know the depth of my heart?

As we part now, each will be at a different place. Hearing not your voice, seeing not your face, my eyes will brim with tears. As we bid farewell, I wish you harmony. My grief is untold; please remember to keep our principles.

Opera actress Thanh Hường, in the role of Cám:

I’m Nguyễn Thanh Hường. I’m truly moved seeing that Supreme Master Ching Hai is such a noble person. I feel that she’s like Mother Mary. Mother Mary offers her children whatever they lack, all the most beautiful things in this world. Reading the books, I feel that Master also loves the birds like her own children. I also wish that birds always have freedom.

When I see someone about to shoot a bird with a gun, I’d say: “Please don’t shoot, brother! That bird is very pitiable. I have birds as pets so I know, I love them very much. When you kill them, I feel my heart is crying as if it is me who would be shot and feel the pain.” I wish to dedicate to Supreme Master Ching Hai and all viewers a recital of the poem “Remember Me When the Rain Falls,” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai.

Together, together we've watched the rainfall. Together, together we've watched the rainbow.
Remember, remember those times together. Remember, remember those times together.
Wherever you go, remember me when the rain falls. Wherever you go, remember me when the rain falls. Wherever you go, remember me when the rain falls.
You know how lonely I must be, The rainfall wakes the memory of my faraway Country.
You know how lonely I must be, The rainfall wakes the memory of my faraway Country.
From the Earth, from the Earth we've waited for the rainfall. From the Earth, from the Earth we've waited for the rainfall. From the Earth, from the Earth we've waited for the rainfall.
Bring the news, bring the news, from our faraway World. Bring the news, bring the news, from our faraway World. Bring the news, bring the news, from our faraway World.
Remember, remember those times together, Remember, remember those times together,

I wish Supreme Master Ching Hai good health, happiness and prosperity and I hope that Master will bring many more beautiful things to all of humanity. I would like to dedicate to Supreme Master Ching Hai and all viewers a Quan Họ song. You’ve just listened to the artists’ chèo singing, and now I’d like to dedicate a Quan Họ song entitled “Our Meeting” to Master and all viewers.

Since we met, melody of love lingers in the air Dreams come and go night-long

I sit by curtain, gazing at the bright moon An oriole in longing

A lone swallow O beloved! When will we meet and be together again? When will we meet and be together again? Our love is beautiful and devoted. We form a harmonious bond, realizing an affinity from previous lives.

I’m Nguyễn Anh Tuấn. I’d like to wish Master good health in order to carry out many beneficial works for humanity and nature. The things Master has done, we like very much. We’d also like to dedicate to Master an excerpt from the song “A Fortune-teller Goes to the Market.”

Who has a better life than me in this world? Leisure is the only thing I have more than others. With a staff in hand and a mission on my shoulders, I wander around the nation No destination, so I never need to rush at all Slowly my staff traces the staircase steps Freely I go back and forth as I wish I couldn’t care less to make acquaintance or eye anyone A gentleman must live like one Be a real gentleman in this world I’ll wade through rocks and sail through hardships. The rich and the poor, I’m indifferent to both. Ba Vì, they said, is the highest mountain,

Yet it doesn’t seem all that high to me. Thanks to a life of leisure Playing music to entertain myself I only feign deaf and blind.

Opera actress Kim Quế, in the role of Mận:

I’m Trịnh Kim Quế. I’d like to say very sincerely that I am truly touched watching the video about Supreme Master Ching Hai. I only wish that Supreme Master Ching Hai has good health to continue her dedication to all of humanity.

I’m actor Xuân Hải. You’re watching Supreme Master Television. Please Be Veg, Go Green, Save the Planet.

I’m Nguyễn Thanh Hường. Greetings to Supreme Master Television’s viewers. I have here 3 books which I would like to introduce to you. The first book is “The Birds in My Life,” the second book is “The Dogs in My Life,” the third book is “The Noble Wilds,” all by Supreme Master Ching Hai. I’d like to introduce these 3 books to everyone. These are the 3 bestsellers on Amazon.com. I invite you to read them.

We sincerely thank all the artists and professionals who have contributed your talents and efforts to continue chèo, a performing art in the Aulacese cultural traditions. We respectfully wish you and your families all the best, happiness and much goodness in life.

Thank you for your company on today’s Enlightening Entertainment. Coming up is Words of Wisdom. Please tune in on Supreme Master Television next Thursday for the Aulacese film entitled “The Light of Truth,” screenplay by Mr. Võ Đình Cường. Farewell for now.

When you wash my husband’s clothes, dry them on the reed or the fence, not on the hedge or else his clothes will be torn.

Alas! How come a bird sounds so like a human? Her chatter makes me terror-struck all of a sudden.

She took my husband’s robe to wash. She handled the robe without care, hanging it to dry on the hedge. She didn’t find a pole to hang it carefully like I used to do.

Oh, oriole! The bird’s twitter tugs at my heartstrings. Lo, she’s gliding among the leaves. She perches on the lower branch, then flies to the higher branch. Where are you from? Your feathers are a shining yellow. You’ve come to a desolate garden. Do not fly away, sweet oriole!

I still remember that your robe is three hand-spans in width. A tangle of love and resentment, my heart withers as I watch your robe left in the sun.

Oh, sweet oriole! Hearing the bird’s heart-wrenching chatter, I feel tormented. Lo, the bird soared up to the high branch, then descended to the low branch. Just perch on the apricot tree. Please don’t go to the willow. The apricot tree branch nestles below the peach tree. O oriole, don’t be quick to hide amid the green leaves! O cherished oriole! If you’re my wife, fly into my sleeve’s opening so that we can be together.

O beloved oriole! Come stay with me and be my comfort day and night as if a love bond torn asunder is renewed. I’ve endured much grief and sorrow. O beloved oriole! Come live in a luxurious cage; enjoy fragrant drink, delicious millet in a jade bowl. O sweet oriole!

My child!

O Mom! He’s cold and distant wherever he sees me, yet he coddles the oriole in his sleeve. What kind of bird can win his love? I’m frightened upon hearing the bird’s chatter.

Tấm’s spirit is definitely taking this bird’s form. A bird or whatever, I’d still kill you. Within tonight, I’ll squeeze her dead and bury her feathers deep in the garden. I’ll live on and you’ll have to die.

Since losing the oriole, the Prince walks in and out in loneliness. By the old apricot tree, suddenly two bead trees grow with lush leaves. I put up a purple hammock there where he had peaceful naps at noontime. The tree shade evoked grief. As he sat on the hammock, his countenance changed to a healthy and youthful one as when he used to ride horses and shoot arrows. I was thinking this bead tree isn’t ordinary. Yet His Highness was only away for a few days, and the shade-giving tree is gone. I found out that the mother had the tree cut down and made a weaving loom now sitting on the veranda. She probably asked her daughter to weave in place of Lady Tấm. My God! They’re coming out!

My child, how do you like this weaving loom?

Oh, it’s beautiful!

The Prince was deeply in love with Tấm because she was good at work. Now, you should also practice to become skilled at it, then who could resist your charm? The Prince will be back soon. Now you sit here, weave beautifully and skillfully. Let me ask someone to buy you more thread.

Yes, Mom. I now live in a luxurious palace due to Heaven’s grace. I take this white thread, O beloved, I wrap it around me and bind us together. May our bond be more affectionate. This white thread, O darling, will bind us together in a youthful love. O beloved, the wind blows, sweeping away the silken curtain. You hold a piece of fabric woven with white threads. Living with love, you’ll be mesmerized. And that girl! You’re gone to the underworld. Your cold grave is covered with wild grass. So, leave your husband to me. Oh my! Why did the strong thread give out? The weaver’s shuttle turns chilly in my hand. The loom grinds its teeth; the fabric frowns. The bead tree wood looks as if bleeding.

Creaky, squeaky! What’s with the weaving? You took my husband. The loom is rocking in resentment. The strong thread of love is torn apart. Cám! I’m like the sweetly scented prairie, like the five-panel dress and the hairpin. Your mother and you are wicked at heart. I still come despite rain or shine.

O Mom! Sister Tấm...

What’s matter with you, sweetie?

Sister Tấm, now that you’re coming back, I tell you honestly: I swear I’m innocent. It’s my mother who is devious.

Why, child? It’s me, your mother!

No, no. It’s my vicious mother who killed you many times out of desire for honor and rank. She killed a kind sister whom I miss and love. I bow a thousand times to beg your forgiveness.

My child!

I bow a thousand times to beg your forgiveness. Mom incited me to commit sins. I often didn’t agree with her.

Wake up, child! It’s me, your mother!

O Mom! Tấm... I just heard Tấm’s voice from the loom. This loom isn’t an ordinary one.

Why do you keep talking in delirium? I don’t see anything. Oh, how come the garden is so windy today? I also felt pierced at my side temples. Is it raining with lightning or is it sunny? Soldiers? (Yes.) Take this loom and burn it down for me. Then collect the ash; wait until dark to dump it far away from the palace, as far as five bridges and ten shops away, you hear? (Yes.)

O gold apple, fall into my bag! It’s for me to smell, not to eat.

O Elder Đa! Are you going to the market? I’ll help carry the baskets for you.

Is that Điều? Just a moment! Let’s go, child! (Yes.)

While no one is home, I’m coming out to tidy things up to repay the elder’s kindness. A tender marriage shattered all of a sudden, leaving him in immense grief and longing. O beloved Prince, I passed away in the cold pond at home. The oriole tweeted a heart-wrenching tale. Your hammock ceased to swing as the bead tree perished. When the gold apple wafts fragrance, we will await each other again. Preparing the phoenix- shaped betel quid, I still pine for you day and night. O my beloved!

Just leave the baskets there for me, Điều. Go back first, child.

Yes, Elder.

How strange! Every time I went away, the house got cleaned and tidied Who cooked the rice? Who boiled the water? Who swept the house? Who made the phoenix- shaped betel quid? Who arranged the goods neatly? Is it human or is it Heaven and Buddha helping me?

O Elder Đa, are you home?

Is that you, Xoan and Điều? (Yes.) Come in here! (Elder!) What are you here for?

Do you know that it’s Tấm’s anniversary of passing today? We’d like to light an incense stick as an offering to our friend and ease our hearts. Alas , it’s already been one year without Tấm.

So where do you hold Tấm’s death anniversary ceremony?

At my house, Elder.

Come over to join us later, Elder!

Yes, go home first. I’ll be there in a while.

Yes, Elder. (Yes.)

I’ve traveled past a hundred shops and bridges. My legs are weary, yet my sorrow has not subsided. I’ve arrived at the countryside village.

This shop is thatched-roofed, bamboo- walled, with a pretty cynanthe vine. I tread the village road with a broken heart. But coming here, I feel light all of a sudden. Greetings, Elder!

Greetings, precious guest! Please be seated.

Thank you, Elder.

Have your drink.

Thank you.

Please enjoy the betel quids.

Thank you, Elder. A phoenix-shaped quid of betel wafting aroma in my hand stirs a deep longing in my heart. O Elder, who made this betel quid? Please tell me.

Ah... I’m here alone.

All alone? Did you make this betel quid? How come it looks exactly like the betel quids Tấm used to make for me? (Tấm?) O Tấm! Perhaps I miss you so much that any betel quid would remind me of you.

It’s been a year since you departed. The aromatic betel wrenches my heart. O Tấm! Today is your first death anniversary. I woke up at the fourth watch and set out with a heavy heart, finding my way to a very remote place. O Tấm, I tread downstream, then up the mountain pass, to this remote place. On my way, I saw a glimpse of someone and thought it was you by my side. Your smile adds charm to your rosy cheeks and pretty lips. O Tấm!

With deep love and devotion, whose voice touches my heart?

Tấm! Is that you?

Beloved Prince! (Tấm!) Darling! (Tấm!) My Prince, I’ve waited long for you. I had to make phoenix- shaped betel quids to ease my pining. O Prince! (Tấm!)

Is that you, Tấm? It’s Tấm, indeed. (Elder!) O Tấm, it’s you! You’ve revived. O Tấm! The Prince is here; you two are reunited now. Joy has returned to our village. Here and there, the singing and laughter make me feel young again. O villagers, come all in here!

Tấm is back to life now.

Sister Tấm! Sister Tấm! Sister Tấm came back to life. You’re really back, sister Tấm!

O sister Tấm! Separated from you for a year, we’ve wept many tears from missing you. Today, we planned to light a few incense sticks for your death anniversary. We’re surprised to see you still alive.

Sister Tấm!

I know the villagers still love me very much, so I came back to the countryside of old, back to the Prince and Elder Đa, to the girls of Mai village and lads of Lựu village. O Xoan, Điều, Mận, Nụ! I’m half happy, half self-pitying in our reunion, knowing not what to say first. The wicked Cám and her mother tried all kinds of ways to kill me.

Thìn! (Yes.) Bring Cám and her mother here for their punishment.

Wait, please stay calm, beloved Prince! I have come back to life. Heaven has eyes. It’d be better to let them repent themselves.

You have such a magnanimous heart. In the mid of joyous springtime, Tấm stepped out from the gold apple. The festival’s betel quids will need her skillful hands again. Now, with the drum, monochord and flutes ready here, let’s play music to celebrate: a shattered mirror is now restored!

A once shattered mirror, now restored. A once shattered mirror, now restored.