Cik Mas Menulis

It was night, I was sitting on a station bench and waiting for my train to home, alone.

Out of nowhere, a woman came and stood in front of me. She sighed heavily and looked disappointed.

I looked at her and without any single hesitation, she asked,

“Has the train departed?”

I replied, “Yes, it has.”

She continued, “I was a little bit late today. I usually arrive on time.”

“I think the train departed earlier today. It was not this early yesterday.” I observed.

Then she excused herself to go to the restroom.

***

After a while, she came back. I offered her the empty seat beside me.

“Where do you work?”, I asked.

“Petaling Jaya.” She answered.

“How long have you been there?”, I continued.

“Almost 9 months, but I’m going to be transferred to another department.” She replied.

Our conversation did not stop there —we resumed talking even after boarding the train! Apart from office issues, she also opened up her personal life’s problems.

Few stations passed without me even realising.

“This woman is having a hard time. Poor her.” I mused to myself.

“All the best, Tania!” — that was the last word I said to her before we separated.

***
I love listening to strangers’ stories. What makes it even more special is the fact that they are willing to share them with me — which obviously a complete stranger. That moments proved to me that I am a good listener, even to the people I’ve just met.

Tania’s story (of course, a fictitious name) made me reflect on my self—how lucky I am not to have gone through her hardships; how God tests His servant differently and how significant it is to appreciate and be grateful for every little thing in my life.

To Tania — may Allah grant you taufiq, hidayah and ease all your affairs.