The Moving Cart, the Cracked Home: The Story of a Batagor Seller at Fate’s Crossroads

Lubuk Pakam, Deli Serdang—(11/03/25) On a quiet evening, just before dawn fully faded, Jestham met Rafli, a 19-year-old young man struggling to sell the last of his meatball stock. His modest cart bore witness to his journey—far from his parents, striving for independence while supporting his family. Rafli, who had just graduated from school, had been working tirelessly for two months, selling meatballs from morning till dusk, sometimes even until sunset. Seeing that only a few portions remained, Jestham decided to buy them all so Rafli could head home early.

The Unstoppable Fire Within: A Boy Building His Destiny

Rafli was not born into a stable family. His parents lived in Jambi, while he ventured to Medan, staying with his grandmother. Longing for his family was inevitable, especially knowing his parents often quarreled. "I hope they’re doing well. I just want our family to be free from problems," he said softly. Rafli was the second of three siblings, and though far from his parents, he still dreamed of one day making them proud.

Life was not easy for Rafli. He had to work hard just to make ends meet, while others his age might still be enjoying college or carefree days. Yet, his determination never wavered. "I want to succeed someday, for my parents," he said, eyes gleaming. Jestham, hearing his story, couldn’t hold back his emotion. He offered a little extra money as support, which Rafli accepted with deep gratitude.

Their conversation flowed naturally. Rafli shared that he had briefly returned to his hometown to see his mother but ultimately came back to Medan to work. "I live with my grandmother here. I only moved in recently—before that, I stayed with my mom," he explained. Jestham nodded understandingly, realizing how heavy a burden Rafli carried at such a young age.

"Perhaps we were born into families where God allows trials not just to test us, but for us to find wisdom," Jestham said, trying to strengthen Rafli’s spirit. He urged Rafli never to give up, to keep striving, and to trust that God had the best plan. "Do your best, wrap it in prayer, and let the rest be part of His divine work," he added.

Rafli agreed with a faint smile. Though life wasn’t always fair, he chose to remain grateful and keep fighting. His dreams were simple—to become successful and bring happiness to his parents and siblings. "Don’t forget to pray and take care of your health," Jestham reminded before parting. Rafli nodded, thanking him with a warm heart.

Behind Rafli’s struggles lay a great hope—that one day, his family would be whole again. Until then, he would keep moving forward, carving his own story through hard work, prayer, and faith that God never sleeps. Stay strong, Rafli! The world may not always grant you ease, but as long as you persevere, the path will surely open.