Struggling in the City: The Story of a Tireless Belt Seller

Medan Sunggal, Medan City—(27/12/24) Amid the hustle and bustle of the city, a wandering belt seller was seen carrying a pile of his merchandise. His face showed exhaustion, but his spirit remained unbroken. That day, luck was on his side when Jesica Thamrin and her companion noticed him and decided to approach him.

"Sir, how much are the belts?" Jestham asked with a warm smile.

The man explained the prices of his goods. He sold belts at varying prices, ranging from Rp20,000 to Rp35,000 each. When asked how many he had sold so far, the man softly replied with a faint smile that, until that afternoon, he hadn’t sold a single item.

A warm conversation ensued, revealing that the man was a father of two school-aged children. His beloved wife was ill, leaving him as the sole provider for the family. Every day, he walked from morning until evening, tirelessly selling belts to make ends meet.

"I sell every day, no days off," he said in a soft voice.

He did everything he could to overcome the challenges he faced, all for the sake of his children, his wife, and the basic needs of his family. When asked why he didn’t use a bag or plastic to carry his merchandise, the man explained that carrying them on his shoulders made it easier for people to see and be interested in buying. "If I use a plastic bag, they won’t notice," he said with a simple smile.

Wandering Belt Seller, Struggling for His Family

Touched by the man’s relentless struggle to support his small family, Jestham felt compelled to lend a helping hand, hoping to ease his burden even a little. "Sir, I have some blessings from God," Jestham said with a warm smile. "I’d like to buy all your merchandise. How much would that cost in total?"

After calculating, the total price of all his goods came to Rp500,000. It was a blessing entrusted by God to the man, and Jestham decided to give a little extra beyond the total price as a gesture of support and sympathy for his struggles. The man could only express his gratitude to God, praying that the giver would be blessed for their generosity. "I pray for your health, long life, and success in all your endeavors," he said, holding back tears.

Jestham also prayed for the man, wishing him strength to continue fighting for his family every day and for his merchandise to sell well. She offered him encouragement, reminding him that God’s blessings would come to those who persevere and pray, as God’s timing is always the best for those who keep trying and trusting.

This is one of thousands of stories about life’s warriors scattered across every corner of the city. They may not always be seen, but their struggles are real and meaningful. Stay healthy wherever you are, Sir! May every step you take bring blessings, and every drop of sweat pave the way to a better life for your family. No struggle is in vain as long as we keep trying and believing in the power of prayer, as it is often said that God has the best timing for every effort and hope we hold.