Freewrite || The Warmth Behind a Simple Stall
That morning, the market was still quiet. The sun had just peeked through the roofs of the buildings, reflecting light onto a row of simple stalls preparing to open their doors. Among the stalls stood a small stall with a sign that read "Es Campur Cek Leb Everything 5000." The stall looked ordinary, but there was something captivating about its simplicity a palpable spirit and perseverance.
A middle-aged man in a neatly striped shirt was busy arranging his wares. His hands moved slowly but surely, arranging containers filled with mixed ice ingredients and snacks on a wooden table. Next to him, rows of plastic bags filled with young coconuts, palm fruit, and colorful jelly awaited the first customers of the day. Not far away, the distinctive aroma of the market a mix of fresh fruit, fried foods, and wet earth mingled, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.
The man paused occasionally, looking around, perhaps remembering the previous days of struggle. Every morning, he arrives early, cleans his stall, prepares ingredients, and greets the other vendors who are also starting to open their stalls. Although he is no longer young, his enthusiasm for trading never wanes.
On the menu board hangs several photos of refreshing drinks mixed ice, fruit ice, avocado shake, and various juices, all offered for five thousand rupiah. The prices are affordable, and the profits may not be substantial, but they are enough to make a living and provide simple happiness to anyone who enjoys the fruits of his labor.
This market, with all its hustle and bustle and simplicity, holds a story of perseverance. About how someone perseveres, works hard without saying much, and believes that every day brings new hope. For some, it might be just an ordinary small stall. But for this man, it embodies struggle, honor, and love for life.
Note: I am writing in Indonesian and using the help of Google translate to translate into English.
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| Photographer | Smartphone used | Location |
|---|---|---|
| @gunting | Realme C53 | Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam |