In the Midst of City Dust

Yusuf Achmad

I see that woman standing in the midst of city dust. Beside her, a man with a helmet, waiting with his vehicle. I can’t fathom why she stands like a traffic cop. Every day, they seem to discuss everything.

About the air growing thicker, and their fates that refuse to roll smoothly. They stand there, in the bustling city that never sleeps. Witnessing the wheels of life spinning chaotically. They are silent witnesses to changes that never arrive, drifting aimlessly.

They are the voices buried beneath the dust and mingling smoke. In the midst of city dust, they stand, forgetting to sleep. Waiting for hope that doesn’t retreat. Never arriving, even as their lives fade away. Yet they stand, with unwavering determination.

Because they know, behind the dust and commotion, there is a higher power. They don’t retreat, even as the future must be confronted. Every day, they talk about politics, new leaders, and false promises, mass layoffs, and rampant corruption.

About hopes always hung on the palace ceilings, “Will the new leader bring change?” asks the woman, “Or will we just keep waiting in uncertainty?” The man with the helmet nods, “We can only hope, but hope alone is not enough.”

“We must do something, we must speak up,” he continues firmly. They talk about the protests rampant in the streets, About the elite conflicts always finding ways to undermine the old leaders, They talk about their children who don’t agree with the politicians’ thoughts.

Seeking their identity amidst confusion and uncertainty, “My child asks, why must we vote?” says the woman with a trembling voice, “I don’t know how to answer because I’m confused myself.” The man with the helmet looks at her with understanding eyes, “We vote because we want change.”

“But change doesn’t come easily, we must fight for it.” In the midst of the street’s dust, they stand, Waiting for hope that may never arrive, Yet they stand, with determination that never fades.

Because they know, behind the dust and commotion, there is a future to be fought for, They are the voices buried beneath the dust and vehicle smoke, They are silent witnesses to changes that never come, Yet they stand, with determination that never fades.

Because they know, behind the dust and commotion, there is a future to be fought for.

Surabaya, 7-10-2024