Profile : Old man in the library

I was going to post some profiles of the people I know. I see, I happen to meet at a public place, friends, strangers, family. Anybody.

And here it is.

Yesterday, I got someone to write.

But today is quite interesting, therefore I’d love to write for him today.

I was a little harsh to one of my friend last night. Therefore, staying home would drive me crazy at this time, I think.

Guilt is never easy.

Then I decided to take a walk out. I decided to go to a public library which is not too far from where I stay.

It is my first time to come to the library. One of my class mates brought me here, and he acted as if he is the marketing manager of this place. Saying every good thing about this place. The great books, the cozy place. The fast internet connection. He is so into this place. But I was too tired back then, so I didn’t came in. I just spent my evening outside, because the park is so peaceful.

Then, here I am. I made a member card and got in to the library. I didn’t want to read the books, yet. Not this week after the horrible assignments. I just want to be here and finish work before my train leaves Jakarta tonight.

And after spoiling myself with an episode of a drama movie, I started to open my work.

Translations, articles to write, products information to search for. Quite a lot for an unemployed coed like me.

Then I turned my face to the right. The view is quite interesting. In my thought, living in Jakarta is harsh. And that’s the fact.

But sitting next to me, is an old man. Probably 70 year old or younger, you know, you look older faster when your life is harsh. Wearing Batik. Guess it is low quality. He’s old. And poor. But he has confidence.

His teeth are gone, I can see it from the cheek. He’s more look like a veteran, abandoned by the government. The ones you see at a special report on the news about how the government treats their patriots.

He’s a contrast to the rest of the visitors of the library who at least look educated.

He seriously reads Kompas, today’s edition, as if he’s going to solve the world’s problems if he reads newspaper.

He is still reading. Seriously.

He’s wearing a hat.

He doesn’t seem to be educated, but for sure he’s not stupid.

He doesn’t seem to have a full time job, but for sure he’s not lazy.

What interests me is, his interest.

At that age, in this kind of city, isn’t going to a library seems to be a weird thing to do if you have a living to continue?

What interests him so deep that drove him to this place; does he know anyone working in this library? Does he leave his work to read newspaper?

I’d love to talk to him, but I’d make sure I don’t ask where he stays. I’ll tell you why in my next post.

But looking at him is so interesting.

And he’s taking his hat off. He’s bald. No hair. Only some grey hair left. But his brain is still functioning. J