Petunjuk Arah

To everyone who has made my way a little clearer

Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash

When I was in third grade, I told my mom I had to go to a friend’s house for a school project. The truth? I had never been there and didn’t know how to get there. I assumed my mom would accompany me, so I got upset when all she said was,

“Mbak, Allah gave you a brain to think and a mouth to ask. Why not be grateful for using them? He will guide you to your destination.”

With a heavy heart and a slight suspicion that I might be adopted (lol), I grabbed my bicycle and set out to find my friend’s house.

I started with a small note she gave me: her address and a few hints. I made my way to the neighbourhood she mentioned. Whenever I felt unsure, I asked people around me, cross-checking their directions with the note. After asking a few strangers, I finally arrived safely.

As I grew up, things became more complicated than finding a friend’s house. There were no notes, no clear directions, just endless questions and silence when I tried to find the answers on my own.

So I remembered my mom’s advice: to make the most of what He has given me. I began mapping my questions and thinking about who I could ask. He gave me time, so I learned to manage. He gave me courage, so I started saying hello. He gave me a voice, so I began to ask.

And eventually, I found them, the “strangers” who helped me piece together the answers to the countless questions in my head, just like those who once guided me to my friend’s house.

I may never thank them enough for helping shape who I am today. Maybe “thank you” will never feel like enough. So instead, I whisper to God to always surround them with kindness and happiness.