Steps Full of Meaning: The Inspiring Story of a Balloon Vendor Father

Medan Timur, Medan City—(02/07/25) That afternoon, the sun began its slow descent on the western horizon, casting golden light across the streets of Medan. Amid the bustle of vehicles passing along Jalan Sutomo, an elderly man stood by the roadside with his rusted bicycle. Tied to the back of the bike, a cluster of colorful balloons swayed gently from a worn-out rope, drifting with the evening breeze. His wrinkled face glistened with sweat, his weary eyes scanning the traffic, searching for someone willing to pause for a moment.

Jestham happened to catch sight of him in the midst of the city's chaos. Something tugged at his heart as he observed the old man—the deep furrows on his forehead that spoke of years of struggle, his faded yet neatly kept clothes, and the hopeful way he gazed at each of his balloons. Without hesitation, Jestham approached him, accompanied by his colleagues.

The man had spent his long day walking from one place to another. Since dawn, he had carried dozens of brightly colored balloons, hoping to bring home a little income for his family and beloved grandchild. But as evening fell, only three balloons had been sold, while the rest still hung from his hands, as heavy as the burdens of life he had carried all these years.

The father shared his story of hardship. Once a pedicab driver, he had turned to selling balloons due to the lack of passengers. Day after day, he walked tirelessly from morning till dusk, carrying bundles of neatly tied balloons. Though his earnings were uncertain, he never complained. "Sometimes I make 50,000 rupiah a day, sometimes only 20,000," he said. Yet he persisted, working hard to support his child and grandchild waiting at home.

Moved by his story, Jestham decided to buy all the remaining balloons—13 in total at 15,000 rupiah each—and added extra money to help with the man's needs. "This is a blessing, sir," Jestham said as he handed over the cash. Tears welled up in the old man's eyes, his face brightening with joy. "Alhamdulillah," he whispered gratefully, hoping the money could buy groceries for his family.

Before parting ways, Jestham encouraged him to stay healthy and keep up his prayers. "May your blessings overflow, sir ," he said warmly. The father nodded in thanks, securing the balloons with an extra knot. That brief encounter left a profound reminder—that even small acts of kindness can mean the world to those in need.

Behind every balloon sold lay silent prayers and hopes. May this balloon vendor father be granted strength, abundant sustenance, and good health. Despite his age, his unyielding spirit shines as a beacon of inspiration. May God reward his perseverance with boundless blessings, filling his days with happiness alongside his loved ones. Like the colorful balloons he carries, may his life, too, be adorned with joy and peace.