
The Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train rolled forward quickly, carrying four passengers seated with each other, but initially no one knew each other. Rama, with his feisty face, sat in a chair by the window, while Maya, a long-haired young woman with her bright smile, sat on the chair next to her. On Rama's side, Ahmad, a man who seemed in thought, opened his laptop. Meanwhile, in their front seat, Siti, a cheerful lady, stared out the window curiously.
The atmosphere in the car was calm, with the sound of smooth railing wheels and the ever-changing scenery outside the window. However, these four passengers felt an uncomfortable silence, like a wall separating them.
Rama decided to end the silence. He turned to Maya and kindly asked, "Sorry, are you also going to Bandung?"
Maya smiled, relieved that someone had finally started the conversation. "Yes, right. I went there to visit my art gallery. What about you guys?"
Ahmad who was sitting next to Rama raised his head from his laptop. "I'm a writer, and Bandung has always been an inspiration to me. Maybe I can find a new idea there."
Siti, who was sitting in their front seat, overheard their conversation and took part. "I am a doctor, and I will participate in a medical conference in Bandung. I look forward to meeting with my old colleagues."
Hearing their different professions, the four became curious about each other. Rama started telling me about his work in technology and the interesting projects he had been working on. He explains how technology can help in everyday life.
Maya, while listening to Rama, explains her feelings about art and how art can be a reflection of various aspects of life. He described some of his most memorable paintings.
Ahmad began to talk about the novels he had written and the themes he had explored. He shares stories about his creative process that are often full of challenges.
Siti, with a warm smile, recounted her experience as a doctor. He talks about his relationship with his patients and how he tries to give his best in his field.
During this conversation, the fast train continued to speed through various stunning natural scenery. They passed through green hills, lush rice fields, and quiet little villages. Warm sunlight entered through the window and illuminated their faces.
Their body movements and expressions began to open. Rama raises his eyebrows enthusiastically when he hears Maya's story of art, while Maya laughs happily as Ahmad shares a humorous story of his experiences as a writer.
Siti, who initially seemed rather serious, began to follow the conversation with sparkling eyes. He is interested to hear Rama explain how technology can be used for better medical care.
As time went on, the four became more and more familiar with each other. They begin to see unique aspects of each other's lives and feel connected in unexpected ways.
The train continued to accelerate at high speed, while an incredible natural scene unfolded outside the window. The four passengers were still in a warm conversation when suddenly an elderly passenger walked slowly towards an empty seat near them. The old man had white hair and thoughtful eyes. He smiled gently at the four before sitting carefully.
Ahmad, who was sitting next to him, gave a polite smile. "Welcome, sir. Can we help you?"
The old man shook his head and replied in a soft voice, "Thank you, kids. I just want to listen to your conversation. I like to see young men like you who speak with passion."
The four of them were honored by the old man's presence, and they decided to continue their conversation. Maya tells about her work in the art world, Ahmad talks about her novels, Rama tells about her technology project, and Siti explains her role as a dedicated doctor.
The old man listened attentively, sometimes nodding and smiling as if to feel their happiness in talking about their passions. As Maya recounted her struggles in the art world, the old man said, "Art is a wonderful way to express yourself. Never stop looking for inspiration, because beauty can be found anywhere."
When Ahmad spoke about his writing, the old man commented, "Writing is a way to give voice to your thoughts and feelings. Don't be afraid to share your story with the world."
Rama told me about his innovative technology project, and the old man smiled as he said, "Technology is a powerful tool. Make it a tool to create positive change in society."
The old man laughed softly before replying, "The best advice I have ever received is to never be afraid to take chances. Life is short, and we must live each day with passion. Don't let fear or regret stop you from achieving what you dream of."
The four listened in amazement. The old man kept talking, sharing stories of his adventures that involved traveling to different parts of the world and taking risks to achieve his personal dreams.
As the carriage drove through the green mountains and beautiful valleys, this amazing natural atmosphere further deepened the effect of the old man's words of wisdom. Their gestures show their respect and respect for the old passenger's life experience.
Their eyes were wide open, and the smiles on their faces reflected a deeper understanding of the meaning of life. The four began to ponder about how this old man's advice would affect their life choices.
As the sun continues to shine brightly over the sky, the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train continues to accelerate across the green hills and stunning valleys. The four passengers were still silent in the deep impression of the wise advice they had heard from the old passenger. However, the atmosphere could not remain calm for long when Siti, who was cheerful and excited, could not hold back her curiosity.
With sparkling eyes, Siti approached the old passenger and cheerfully asked, "Sir, I'm sorry if I was too pampered, but I really want to know more about your life experience. How can you be so wise?"
The old man smiled looking at Siti's spirit. "It's okay, young man. I am happy to share my experience. Wise? Maybe it's just a collection of mistakes I've learned my whole life."
Siti nodded with enthusiasm and said, "I'm sure every mistake has a valuable lesson. What was the biggest mistake you ever made, and what did you learn from it?"
The old man laughed softly. "My biggest mistake was procrastinating to follow my dream. I have always had the desire to explore the world, but I procrastinated too long. It was only after I retired that I decided to take a chance and live that dream."
Siti listened attentively. "That must be very interesting, sir. How did you feel when you finally took that step?"
The old man smiled again, this time with glittering eyes. "Freedom and great joy. I learned that we should not let fear or comfort stop us from achieving what we really want. Life is too short to wait."
Maya, Ahmad, and Rama join the conversation. Ahmad asked, "Is there a special moment in your journey that is most memorable?"
The old man pondered for a moment before replying, "There were many memorable moments, but one of them was when I saw the sunrise at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. It was an unforgettable experience."
Maya, who was full of interest in the natural landscape, asked, "Do you often travel to exotic places?"
The old man nodded. "Yes, after I started exploring the world, I felt hooked. I'm trying to visit different places, try local food, and learn about new cultures."
Siti could not resist her curiosity. "Have you ever been afraid of being in a foreign place?"
The old man laughed. "Sure, there are times when I feel scared, but that's part of the adventure. I learned to face my fears and enjoy my feelings when I overcame them."
While they continued to talk, the carriage continued to speed through the stunning landscape. The warm sunlight created shadows on their faces as they laughed, talked, and shared stories with the old man.
Siti eagerly absorbed the old man's words of wisdom, as if she wanted to absorb all her wisdom and life experience. Siti feels inspired and feels more confident in pursuing her dreams and interests.
Chapter 3 is the moment where Siti pursues her knowledge with enthusiasm and provides an opportunity to hear more about the life experiences of this wise old man. The stunning natural atmosphere outside the car window adds to the magic of the stories they hear.