The Tireless Steps of a Grandfather: A Story of Resilience and Sincerity in Life
The Tireless Steps of a Grandfather: A Story of Resilience and Sincerity in Life
Sisingamangaraja Street, Medan City—(02/19/25) Jesica Thamrin’s usual journey took an unexpected turn this time. Under the scorching sun, her gaze suddenly fell upon an elderly grandfather struggling to walk along the roadside. His hunched back bore not only the weight of a stack of crackers he carried but also the heavy burden of life itself. Without hesitation, Jestham stopped and warmly greeted the old man.
In their brief conversation, it was revealed that the 78-year-old grandfather spent his days walking from morning till evening, selling crackers just to put food on the table. Despite earning only a meager profit, he never complained. Jestham was moved, realizing the immense struggle the old man endured just to meet his basic needs.
Yet, behind his resilience lay a deep sorrow. With a trembling voice, he shared the pain of losing his 15-year-old son just two months prior. Heart, lung, and liver disease had taken his beloved child after prolonged suffering. "He often joined me selling crackers," the grandfather recalled, his eyes glistening with tears. Now, he walked alone, carrying an unhealed longing.
Hearing his story, Jestham felt as if the world had paused. She imagined the unbearable grief of a father losing his child forever. Without a second thought, she bought all the crackers he had and handed him extra money. "This is for you," she said, clasping his wrinkled hands.
The grandfather was visibly touched by Jestham’s kindness. Tears nearly spilled as the founder of the beauty brand JÈSTHAM encouraged him, "May you always be granted health and strength." She also reminded him to remain patient and surrender everything to God.
How many untold stories of perseverance are hidden behind the ordinary faces we encounter on a daily basis? The cracker-selling grandfather taught her that true strength lies not in wealth but in the ability to endure hardship.
Amid life’s unrelenting challenges, may the grandfather always be granted strength, health, and fortitude by the Almighty. May each of his steps be blessed with ease, his sorrows soothed with peace, and his efforts rewarded with abundance.
