Tears on the Pedicab: The Touching Story of a Resilient Grandfather

Medan Baru, City of Medan—(03/02/25) The roar of engines and the hurried footsteps of passersby formed the backdrop for an elderly grandfather sitting slumped against his pedicab, patiently waiting for a fare that might never come. The wrinkles on his face told stories of years endured with quiet patience, while his dim eyes still held a glimmer of hope—perhaps today, luck would smile upon him. And on that day, fate led him to an encounter with genuine kindness, a simple meeting that carried profound meaning.

This was the unexpected beginning of a heartfelt interaction between Jesica Thamrin, affectionately known as Jestham, and the elderly man. Holding several packages of groceries, Jestham approached him warmly. "Could I get a ride, Grandpa? I need to deliver these," she asked kindly. The grandfather, initially taken aback, quickly brightened up. Eagerly, he helped load the packages onto his modest pedicab.

The Struggle of a Pedicab Driver Earning a Living in His Old Age

A warm conversation unfolded. The grandfather shared that he lived alone. He had a child, but they were currently in prison, while the grandchildren he adored were nowhere to be found. "It’s lonely being by myself at home," he murmured softly. Despite this, he remained strong, cooking his own meals and surviving on the meager earnings from his pedicab.

Midway through their talk, the grandfather’s eyes suddenly welled up as he spoke of his longing for the grandchildren he hadn’t seen in years. Though separated by distance and circumstance, his love for them never faded—he continued to pray for their health and happiness, wherever they might be. The simplicity of his words struck Jestham deeply, a testament to how a grandfather’s love could endure even in the loneliest of silences.

Jestham revealed that the groceries were specifically for him. "These are for you, Grandpa," she said gently. But she didn’t stop there—she slipped him some cash as an additional blessing. At that moment, the grandfather’s tears flowed freely. "Alhamdulillah... thank you," he whispered shakily, wiping his eyes repeatedly.

Jestham offered encouragement: "You’re a hero who never complains. Even alone, you stay strong." The grandfather nodded, steadying himself with faith. "I always pray—that’s what keeps my heart at peace," he said. He also shared his hopes that his children might change for the better, believing that prayers, though unseen, are always heard by the Creator.

Before parting ways, Jestham urged him to use the assistance for his needs during Ramadan and Eid preparations. The grandfather smiled softly, thanking her again and again. "Continue to fight, Grandpa. Stay healthy," Jestham said as she bid him farewell.

Behind his simplicity and solitude lay resilience and immeasurable love. This grandfather, despite life’s hardships, radiated kindness and hope. May his story inspire us to care more for those around us—for sharing not only lightens burdens but also warms hearts.