LIFE CHANGING STORIES

HE El-Mostafa Benlamlih

Dont feel sorry for him, because he didn’t ask for that.

Don’t treat him special, because he didn’t ask for that.

He is grateful for the chance he was given.

It’s not because he can’t, but just different.

On that afternoon the weather was very bright. The hot sunlight burns the skin. Sweat is a natural part of Jakarta’s very hot temperature. But on that noon, a young man was walking by the side of Plumpang Main Street full of vehicles. Dust and heat was not a hinder for him. At a glance noticed, then one might think he is crippling. He doesn’t walk properly, and even some of his hands movement isn’t normal.

When we look at Ferry’s appearance, the first impression is he needs empathy. But don’t even do that to him, because he is different.

Born in a simple family, at young age was acknowledged that he suffered lack of brain liquid that caused his motoric nerves system doesn’t work properly. Years expensive medications couldn’t give positive result. And it was stated that he must live his life with physical handicap.

As his family was getting tougher financially, and with two other brother he has, Ferry near forced to quit school.

Acknowledged that there’s Computer Training Centre (CTC) in Plumpang, Ferry took his chance and registered. Unfortunately, He didn’t make it.. But it didn’t stop his passion, so he tried his luck again in the next semester. But he failed again..

Instead of stop trying, Ferry was even more persistent to register once more time. And this time, he finally was accepted in CTC Plumpang.

Physical condition wasn’t a threat for him to absorb lessons well. He even often stayed longer than his friends in the classrooms after the class finished.

“It is not threat. It’s just a test from God.” Says Ferry after all the unlikable situations he went through.

Today he has graduated from CTC. His daily life now is filled as a teacher assistant in CTC Plumpang start from morning until to evening. He loves to discuss and share his knowledge with his friends who studies in CTC. Ferry has unique habit, he doesn’t eat lunch.

“I don’t want to have lunch. I’m afraid that it will become a habit. then it will be uneasy to let go, I actually can use the money for other things.”