EN 
ID 
Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra —
In the midst of displacement caused by flash flooding triggered by Cyclone Selayar in Tukka Sub-district, Central Tapanuli Regency, loss and grief are deeply felt. The floodwaters arrived with devastating force, destroying homes and livelihoods and leaving profound sorrow behind. Some families were even forced to endure the loss of loved ones.
In that difficult situation, I met a woman whose story strengthened my heart. She is Ibu Maria (name changed), a survivor of the flash floods in Tukka. Our meeting took place at the displacement site, where many families were still trying to piece their lives back together amid uncertainty.
Ibu Maria’s family had actually come to take her to stay with relatives in a safer area, far from the flood-affected zone. However, with a calm heart and a deep sense of calling, she chose to remain at the displacement site.
She stayed not because she had no other option, but because she chose to serve.
Amid the limitations of life in the displacement site, Ibu Maria made herself present for fellow survivors. She did what she could—offering comfort, encouragement, and companionship to those who were grieving. Even as she herself was healing from loss and hardship, she chose not to turn away from the suffering of others.
Prepared meals are distributed to help ease the burden on displaced families who lack access or capacity to cook independently at the displacement site.
With deep compassion, Ibu Maria shared her story:
“Every morning we begin the day with prayer, and before resting we close the day again with prayer. The elders take turns leading the prayers. In the midst of limitations and uncertainty, prayer becomes our source of strength.”
Through this disaster, I learned a profound lesson. People who once did not know one another have now come to know and care for each other. Coming from different faith backgrounds, they have learned to live together in solidarity, without distinctions of religion or identity.
In the midst of the flash flooding in Tukka, I was reminded once again of God’s goodness. When everything seemed to fall apart, compassion grew in human hearts—compassion that was real, active, and healing.
As she closed her story, Ibu Maria shared a message of wisdom for mothers who are currently facing disasters:
“Be a strong mother—one who protects, nurtures, and stands firm. In the midst of life’s storms, strong faith will grow compassion that can strengthen many others.”
This story was shared by Yusi, ADRA Indonesia staff, based on field interviews with disaster survivors in Tukka Sub-district.
