From the Sidewalk to Many Hearts: Small Acts of Kindness with a Big Impact

Medan City, North Sumatera—(05/15/25) Under the scorching sun, a heartwarming moment unfolded as Jestham greeted a middle-aged woman selling es dawet (pandan coconut milk drink) by the roadside. With a warm smile, she didn’t just buy a drink—he also listened to her story of perseverance, having sold the beverage for 12 years. "It’s been about 11 or 12 years now," the woman said with a smile. Her long journey began even before she got married, all to support her family. That day, Jestham chose to spread kindness in a simple yet meaningful way: she bought all her remaining stock and gave it away for free to passersby.

The woman’s enthusiasm was evident as she swiftly packed each cup of es dawet. Her face lit up at the sight of happy recipients, from nearby street vendors to weary pedestrians. "This is so refreshing, Ma’am," Jestham remarked while sipping the homemade drink, fragrant with pandan leaves. It turned out she made it herself using a treasured family recipe. Yet, behind the drink’s refreshing taste lay a story of hardship.

The Determined Smile of a Mother Who Never Gives Up

"Sales depend on the weather. On hot days, everything sells out, but when it rains, sometimes only half a barrel is sold," she shared about her unpredictable income. On good days, she could earn Rp500,000, but after deducting costs, her net profit was only around Rp350,000. Worse, during rain or slow business, unsold es dawet had to be discarded. "Such a waste of the coconut milk," she lamented. Still, her spirit never wavered. Every day, she started her business with a smile and fresh hope, believing that "a smile is an act of worship."

Her life story was equally touching. She lost both parents by the time she was in her third year of high school, and one of her younger siblings fell into depression from the loss. "As long as your parents are still around, cherish them," she advised, her voice trembling. Despite life’s challenges, she chose resilience. "Alhamdulillah, there’s prayer, there’s a God who’s always with me," she said, her eyes glistening.

The emotional moment deepened when Jestham paid for all her remaining stock. After calculating, the total came to Rp48,000. But Jestham didn’t just pay the exact amount—she generously gave extra as a gesture of care and support for her struggles. "Is this amount okay, Ma’am?" Jestham asked while handing over far more than the cost. "This has never happened before," the woman replied, overwhelmed by the unexpected kindness. Gratitude and joy radiated from her face. "Alhamdulillah," she whispered with a wide smile. Jestham also prayed for her, "May your sales thrive, and may you be blessed with children soon."

This story reminds us of two things: the resilience of a humble woman who never gives up and the power of small kindnesses that ripple far and wide. A simple act—like buying someone’s goods and listening to their story—can carry profound meaning. Jestham didn’t just give away free es dawet; she warmed many hearts, including the woman’s, who felt deeply valued that day.

To the es dawet vendor, may your spirit never fade. Keep smiling, because your smile inspires many. And to all of us, let’s remember that happiness can come from small things, as long as they’re done sincerely. As Jestham said, "A smile is an act of worship"—and that day, she proved it.