A Plate of Food, A Million Hopes: The Story of a Brother from Manokwari

Medan Sunggal, Medan City - (08/26/25) In the midst of our busy routines, we are often reminded that the most touching moments are found in the unexpected corners of the street. One afternoon in Medan, Jestham silently witnessed a meaningful encounter between a waste collector (pemulung), struggling against hunger and thirst. This chance meeting was no mere coincidence but rather a sequence of destiny arranged by the Almighty to answer a prayer.

It all began when Jestham's gaze fell upon a figure standing listlessly in front of a food stall. On her YouTube channel, Jestham opened her story with her characteristic greeting, “Hey JeSquad. So, Jestham is back again, sharing kindness on the streets. Follow along, yeah!” She then approached the man and asked with gentle compassion, “What's wrong, Bang (Brother)?” The answer was simple yet heartbreaking: “Hungry.” Followed by, “Thirsty, too.” Without a second thought and with a sincere heart, Jestham immediately offered help: “Alright, I’ll buy you some food, then, Bang.”

The brief conversation began to flow, unveiling a life story full of struggles. When asked where he was from, the waste collector brother replied, “Papua. Manokwari.” The immense distance from the land of Papua to Medan surely held a long story. With a trembling voice, he shared that his parents had passed away, and all his siblings were also gone, leaving only one sister behind. He had migrated to Medan alone without any relatives to lend a helping hand.

The life he led was truly heartbreaking. When asked where he lived, he innocently answered, “I sleep in an empty house.” He mentioned an area in Tanjung Anom, Medan. To survive, he relied on collecting scrap materials. “Look for junk to find food,” he said. He was an honest man; amidst the gnawing hunger, he remained firm in his principle never to steal. This showed the purity of heart and dignity he still firmly held onto.

Hearing this sincere revelation, Jestham's heart was even more moved. The help she offered was no longer just about a plate of food but something more. After buying him a warm meal and drinking water, Jestham also gave him a little financial assistance. “I also have a little bit of sustenance for you, Bang,” said Jestham. The response was unexpected. Instead of seeming happy, the man began to shed tears. “Why are you crying?” Jestham asked, full of wonder.

The tears streaming down his cheeks were tears of uncontrollable gratitude and emotion. Choking up, the waste collector brother answered, “Thank you, Miss. Thank you very much.” He admitted, “Because I rarely experience something like this. I rarely get help like this.” That statement reminds us all that for some people, a little attention and kindness is a luxury they can only dream of. Jestham's kindness that day was an answered prayer. “This sustenance today is from God for you, Bang.”

Before taking her leave, Jestham did not forget to offer encouraging and uplifting reminders: “Always remember to worship, okay, Bang? Don’t forget to pray.” The man agreed respectfully and said, “God bless you.”

This story is a powerful reminder for all of us. However small, kindness that comes from a sincere heart can become a beacon of immense hope for those dwelling in darkness. God's help always comes from unexpected directions, sometimes through our own hands to reach out to others. Let us open our eyes and our hearts wide, because every opportunity to share is a blessing that must not be wasted.