One Bread, A Thousand Meanings: The Touching Story of a Resilient Street Vendor
One Bread, A Thousand Meanings: The Touching Story of a Resilient Street Vendor
Stabat, Langkat City—(05/02/25) On the edge of a bustling road, a middle-aged man with an old motorcycle modified into a bread cart caught the attention of Jesica Thamrin, who was passing by with her team. Together, they approached his humble cart, still neatly stacked with bread of various flavors—a sign that little had been sold that day. His sun-darkened skin and veined hands spoke of long years of struggle on the streets.
A brief conversation revealed an extraordinary tale of perseverance. For over a decade, this man had pedaled his motorcycle through scorching heat and rain, following the same route daily with unyielding hope. “Sometimes I return home with half the bread unsold,” he said, his smile still warm, though he often bore losses when his goods didn’t sell.
Behind his hard work lay a touching family story. Married for fifteen years to his wife, Minawati—a kindergarten honorary teacher—they were blessed with three children, the eldest now in 7th grade. The meager income from selling bread and his wife’s modest salary had to stretch to cover their family’s needs.
What was most admirable was his unwavering spirit. Despite spending long days selling bread, he never neglected his obligation to perform the five daily prayers. Moved by his struggles, Jestham decided to help. She bought all his remaining bread for Rp400,000 and gave extra money as assistance. The bread, originally intended to be shared with children at Jestham’s office, was also distributed to passersby nearby. Overwhelmed with emotion, the bread seller repeatedly expressed gratitude for the unexpected blessing that came his way that evening.
May this father’s fighting spirit never fade, his sustenance always be abundant, and his family be blessed with health and happiness. Behind every loaf of bread he sells lies a prayer and tireless effort that will one day bear sweet fruit. Keep moving forward with faith, sir, for with every sincere step, there is surely God’s guidance and the kindness of those moved to lend a hand.
