Behind the Fatigue: The Story of a Sincere and Sacrificial Parking Attendant

Pulo Brayan, Medan City—(09/02/25) The world moves relentlessly around him. Cars come and go, polished shoes stride past indifferently. He is merely part of the background scenery, unworthy of attention—until Jesica Thamrin’s gaze lands on him. Not just a passing glance, but a look that sees the patience behind his smile, the resilience in his slightly hunched shoulders, and the flickering hope in his weary eyes.

The man lifts his head as Jestham approaches. The sweltering afternoon heat suddenly feels cooler when kind words are spoken: "Sir, today I’ve been blessed, and I’d like to buy you groceries. Would that be alright?" For a moment, the world seems to stand still. Hands that usually direct parking with practiced ease now tremble uncontrollably. Tears he had long held back behind his polite smiles finally escaped. "Alhamdulillah," he whispers, his voice cracking with emotion. In three years of hardship, this is the first time such kindness has come his way.

He shares his struggles as a parking attendant—three years of unpredictable income, some days bringing home Rp30,000–Rp40,000, others nothing at all. Before this, he worked as a security guard until the company shut down, forcing him into this uncertain livelihood. Yet despite the hardships, he remains grateful for honest work. "What matters is halal sustenance," he says with a sincere smile.

His personal life is equally challenging. A father of two independent, married children, he now lives alone, occasionally staying with his kids or elderly parents. He is the sole breadwinner for his aging mother and younger siblings. "If I earn nothing, we simply don’t eat," he admits softly. There are moments he questions his fate, but he chooses surrender to God’s plan.

When given two minutes to shop, he dashes for rice, oil, eggs, instant noodles, and other staples. His face lights up with determination, as if unwilling to waste this rare opportunity. Overcome with emotion, he chokes back tears. "I’ve never received a blessing like this before," he murmurs between sobs. Jestham, too, is moved by his raw gratitude.

He reveals the harsh reality of supporting a family on meager earnings. Daily, he must pay Rp80,000 in parking fees; if he falls short, he borrows just to survive. Yet through it all, he serves visitors with warmth. "I refuse to complain. As long as my family eats, that’s enough," he says.

As their meeting ends, the man’s face blossoms into a radiant smile when Jestham offers additional help. His tear-filled eyes shimmer with disbelief—after years of solitary struggle, a helping hand has finally eased his burden.

With a heart full of joy, he plans to share this unexpected bounty with his mother and children. A simple intention that makes the gift infinitely more meaningful. Like the sun that always rises after the darkest night, hope never truly fades for those who keep faith and gratitude alive.

To this father: Keep walking forward with unyielding spirit. Every drop of sweat is proof of your love. May God reward your sacrifices with steady provision, enduring health, and unforeseen joy. Trust that behind every hardship, He is preparing something beautiful for you and your family.