Abdullah’s Cart of Integrity
Asem Mustafa Awan
Islamabad: Abdullah, a father of three in his mid-thirties, has dedicated his life to earning an honest living. Working tirelessly from a humble sand cart in Rawalpindi, he serves roasted corn to passersby, embodying hard work and dignity.
His modest setup may seem unremarkable, but Abdullah’s character shines brighter than any possession.
On December 31, 2024, Abdullah’s values were tested in an extraordinary way. A drug addict, after stealing a bag containing valuables, attempted to sift through the belongings near Abdullah’s cart.
Noticing the suspicious activity, Abdullah intervened, surprising the thief and forcing him to flee. He then called neighbors to inspect the bag, which held identity documents, laptops, and an iPhone belonging to a law student, Asadur Rehman.
Upon inspecting the bag with the help of neighbors, Abdullah discovered identity documents, a laptop, and an iPhone belonging to a man named Asad-ur-Rehman. Taking the initiative, Abdullah reached out to Amjad Abbasi, who assisted in identifying and contacting Asad.
When approached, Asad immediately recognized the items as his own. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he thanked Abdullah for his honesty and quick action.
“I have no words to express my gratitude,” said Asad, a law student. “The documents and laptop contained invaluable notes and materials for my studies. Thanks to Abdullah, I got them back intact.”
Abdullah’s story goes beyond this single act of integrity. Before becoming a corn seller, he spent years as a cobbler, working diligently to make ends meet. As a young boy, Abdullah attended a religious school but eventually ran away due to circumstances he rarely discusses.
Later in life, he participated in a 40-day spiritual program, commonly known as “Chilla” in religious circles, which emphasizes self-improvement and moral development. These experiences shaped Abdullah into the upright individual he is today.
Despite his humble means, Abdullah serves every customer with a smile, demonstrating his devotion to his work and his commitment to living an honest life.
His sand cart, a simple yet precious possession, is a symbol of his perseverance. It is not just a means of livelihood but a testament to his character and dedication to providing for his family.
This incident also left an indelible impression on Asad. As a law student, he realized the significance of empathy and the value of representing people who often go unheard due to financial or social constraints. Abdullah’s actions serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on their community.
In a world where honesty often feels overshadowed by cynicism, Abdullah’s story shines as a beacon of hope. It reminds us that integrity and kindness still exist and that even the simplest acts of honesty can inspire profound change.
Abdullah’s unwavering commitment to doing what is right not only helped recover valuable belongings but also restored faith in humanity for those around him.
As the new year begins, Abdullah’s act of honesty serves as a call to action for all of us. His story is a reminder that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the richness of one’s character and the strength of one’s principles.
