Tales of the Sailors Under the Ocean’s Guiding Light (Malik & Me)

After witnessing the majesty of Komodo dragons at Loh Liang and enjoying the beauty of Pink Beach, a physical challenge awaited us on Padar Island. We climbed higher, our breathing grew heavier, and doubt slowly crept into our minds.

That was when we caught up with Mr. Thomas, a foreign traveler walking ahead of us. He moved with one leg, supported by a walking stick, yet his steps were steady and confident.

“Excuse me, Mr. Thomas,” I said, offering him some water. “This climb is really tough. What keeps you so motivated?”

Mr. Thomas, with calm blue eyes, accepted the water.
“Thank you, my friend,” he said softly, then pointed to his missing leg.

“Two years ago, I lost this leg in an accident. At the same time, I lost everything—my job, my fiancée, and most importantly, my hope.” His voice carried no bitterness.

Malik fell silent, stunned by the honesty.

“When I was lying in the hospital,” Mr. Thomas continued, gazing toward the summit, “I saw a photo of Padar Island in a brochure. I made a promise to myself—if I could stand again, this hill would be my first destination. Not to prove anything to others, but to prove to myself that I was still whole inside.”

“A missing leg,” he said, tapping his walking stick, “should never be a reason to limit your soul. If I stop climbing here, then that accident would have truly taken everything from me.”