Weary Steps by the Roadside: A Father’s Hope and Blessings from Unexpected Places

Medan City, North Sumatra—(05/26/25) Like an old bicycle that keeps pedaling even as its chain creaks, so too is the struggle of this cracker seller—a father who, though exhausted, never stops moving. With every turn of his wheels, there’s a story of sweat shed to put food on the table for his family. And on the unforgivingly hot streets, unkind to small warriors like him, fate led him to a glimmer of hope from caring hands.

Jestham and her team accidentally met the middle-aged cracker seller resting by the roadside. His face clearly showed exhaustion after pedaling around to sell his goods. When they struck up a conversation, the man admitted he had only sold five packs that day. “I still have 30 left,” he said, showing his remaining stock. With small capital and uncertain earnings, his struggle was truly heartbreaking.

The man explained that the crackers he sold were not his own—he merely took them from a supplier and earned a tiny profit per pack. “Sometimes they don’t sell for three days,” he said softly. His daily earnings often amounted to just one or two thousand rupiah. Yet, he refused to give up because he had to provide for his wife and two daughters. “I hope my children won’t end up like me. I want them to succeed,” he said, his eyes glistening with tears.

Moved by his story, Jestham decided to help. Instead of haggling, she bought all the remaining crackers and gave extra money as support. “If this is God’s calculation, how about it, sir?” Jestham asked the man a question while handing over the cash. The man was stunned, never expecting such an unexpected blessing. His emotions overflowed—not from sadness, but from immense gratitude.

The Cracker Seller: A Father Fighting for His Family

This cracker seller’s struggle mirrors that of many parents out there, working tirelessly for their families. Even when sales were slow, he remained driven by his deep sense of responsibility. “To my beloved wife, thank you for staying by my side all this time,” he said. Those simple words revealed how his love for his family was his greatest motivation.

Jestham reminded him of a life principle: as long as we strive sincerely for our family, blessings will come from unexpected places. “Do you believe it, sir? When we fight for our family, there’s always a blessing we never saw coming,” she said. Behind every hardship, there is divine help for those who never give up and remain grateful.

Before parting, Jestham encouraged the man to stay strong and never forget the power of prayer. “Keep praying, sir. Don’t forget your prayers,” she advised. That simple message carried profound meaning—that beyond hard work, devotion and gratitude are the keys to peace in life’s trials. May his spirit inspire us all to appreciate every parent’s struggle and never underestimate even the smallest blessings. With good intentions and sincere effort, sustenance will arrive at the right time.