Unending Longing: The Story of an Abandoned Father

Medan City—(11/05/25) In the midst of life's chaos, we occasionally come across moments that deeply resonate with us. This was what happened to Jestham, who accidentally met an elderly man in tattered clothes, pushing a rickety bicycle loaded with scrap metal. Without hesitation, Jestham offered to buy the man some basic necessities. Joy radiated from the old man’s face as he gratefully accepted the help. They went shopping together, and there, the heartbreaking story of the father began to unfold.

While selecting rice, oil, and soap, the old man shared that he lived alone after his wife passed away and his two children had forgotten him for decades. "My son is in Batam—he hasn’t come home in 30 years," he said in a trembling voice. He admitted he had never received a phone call or any news from them. His survival depended on scavenging, and he often endured hunger without a penny to his name. Jestham couldn’t hold back his emotions upon hearing his story.

Among the pile of groceries, the old man also picked out coffee, sardines, and instant noodles. "I cook for myself at home," he said with a simple smile. When asked if he wanted fruit or bread, he only nodded shyly, as if unaccustomed to choosing anything nice. Jestham didn’t miss the chance to buy him cough medicine and vitamins, considering the man’s frail condition.

The Life of a Father Behind by His Children

Tears welled up as the father confessed how loneliness often kept him awake at night. "Sometimes I can only fall asleep in the early morning," he admitted. He also revealed that his daughter, Mariana, hadn’t visited him in eight years since her marriage. "I often read the newspaper, hoping to find news about them," he whispered. Jestham was deeply moved by how the old man still held onto hope that his children would return one day.

Despite his suffering, the elderly father remained grateful. Jestham was reminded of how many people complain about food being less than perfect, while this man sometimes went an entire day without eating. Witnessing his resilience, Jestham realized the importance of appreciating blessings often taken for granted. As a final gesture of care, he gave the man some extra money to buy fried chicken—a simple dish the father had long craved but could rarely afford.

Behind the weary faces we pass on the streets, there are sorrowful stories worth hearing. The sincerity of an old father who still holds love for his children, even as they forget him, is a valuable lesson in affection and sacrifice. May Jestham’s kindness inspire us all to care for one another, for even a small act of help can mean everything to those in need.