A Gift of Kindness🚙🤝

Tarun was a brilliant student. He loved mathematics and was always the first to complete class tests. However, he was also the last to arrive at school each day unless he managed to get a ride from friends or kind passersby.

His father worked as a cobbler, and since his motorcycle was loaded with tools and materials, he could not take Tarun to school. Instead, he gave Tarun three ringgit each day for bus fare and breakfast. Tarun had to walk from his house to the nearest bus stop and take the town bus to school.

Musa and Tarun were good friends. Often, Tarun would help Musa with math formulas. Musa knew that Tarun arrived late every day because he had to rely on public transport.

One evening, Musa decided to talk to his father. "Ayah, you know Tarun, right?"

His father nodded. "Yes, the math genius. What about him?"

"Every day, he comes to school late because he takes the town bus," Musa explained. "Also, I noticed this morning that his bag strap was broken. He had to carry it all the way to school."

Musa’s father listened thoughtfully. "What do you suggest? Should we get him a new bag? Or is there something better we can do?"

Musa hesitated for a moment before saying, "Can we buy him a bicycle?"

His father considered the idea but shook his head. "That is a kind thought, Musa, but his house is five kilometers from school. It is not safe for him to cycle that far. He would have to cross several junctions and traffic lights."

Musa looked disappointed, but his father patted his shoulder reassuringly. "Give me a few days. Let me discuss with my friends and think of a way to help Tarun and his father."

A week later, on a bright Sunday morning, Tarun and his father were caught completely by surprise. Standing in front of their house was a multi-purpose van, brought by Musa, his father, and the local councillor, Mr. Tan.

Tarun's eyes widened in disbelief. He gasped before jumping with excitement. His father, overwhelmed with gratitude, kept thanking Musa’s father, Cikgu Mahmud, and Mr. Tan.

Cikgu Mahmud smiled warmly. "Mr. Mari, this is just a small help from Mr. Tan after Musa told me about your situation."

Mr. Mari clasped his hands together and said, "Thank you so much. This means a lot to us."

Musa leaned closer to Tarun and whispered, "There is another surprise for you inside the van."

Curious, Tarun quickly opened the door. Inside, he found a brand-new school bag and a pair of shoes.

Cikgu Mahmud patted Tarun’s shoulder and chuckled. "Now, you cannot come late to school anymore!"

Everyone burst into laughter, sharing a moment of joy and kindness that would stay in their hearts forever.