The Fruit of Struggle: A Father's Sincerity and the Sweetness of Hope
The Fruit of Struggle: A Father's Sincerity and the Sweetness of Hope
Medan Tembung, Medan City—(21/03/25) Amid the hustle and bustle of Medan, a banana vendor diligently sells his goods by the roadside. By chance, Jestham and his friend pass by and greet the man, who warmly shares his life story. Every day, he sells bananas to support his family, especially his children. With pride, he recounts how one of his children is now studying at the University of Sumatera Utara (USU), one of Medan’s most prestigious universities. Though life is modest, the father never tires of praying for his sustenance to always be enough, including for his child’s education.
In their heartfelt conversation, the father explains that he has been selling at that spot for seven years. He is fully responsible for all the equipment at his stall, as they are borrowed items. If anything is damaged or lost, he is the first to be held accountable. Despite unpredictable weather, he remains steadfast, waiting until late afternoon before heading home to break fast with his family.
His story grows even more touching as he speaks of his seventh child, who is now studying law at USU. His child wept with emotion upon being accepted into the renowned university while expressing concerns about the family’s financial limitations. Firmly, the father offered encouragement, assuring them that education costs were not something to worry about—what mattered most was their dedication to learning. For him, the greatest happiness lies in his children’s success, even if it means relentless hard work from dawn till dusk.
His hope is simple: he wants his children to achieve a brighter future. With unwavering faith, he believes that one day, his child will uplift the family’s name. Though life is a constant struggle, he never complains. Every banana sold is a small step toward his grand dream—seeing his child graduate with a degree.
As Jestham selects a few bunches of bananas, he is deeply moved by the father’s perseverance. He decides to buy several bunches for Rp24,000 and gives extra money as a token of appreciation. Overwhelmed, the father tears up, expressing gratitude for this unexpected blessing during Ramadan. Jestham prays for the man’s continued health and prosperity, assuring him that his children will surely succeed because they have an extraordinary father.
Behind those calloused hands selling bananas lies the unconditional love of a father who never keeps count of his sacrifices. Our prayers accompany you, sir—may your sustenance flow abundantly and your health remain steadfast. Your children will grow to be your pride, proving that none of this hard work has ever been in vain.
