A Gentle Start
December 24th began in Kulai. Johor Bahru was only about 50 kilometers away, so I allowed myself a slower start. I woke up around 8 a.m., later than usual, knowing I could take the day at a relaxed pace.
The man who had kindly treated me to dinner the night before also invited me for breakfast. He chose a meal that was gentle on the body and full of nutrition, saying, "You'll need this for the road ahead." Sharing that warm breakfast gave me quiet strength before setting off.
Trouble on the Road
The weather was perfect for cycling—soft sunshine, no heavy heat, and no sign of rain yet. I felt confident. But after only about an hour, I hit trouble. My tire went flat.
This always seems to happen on days when I think, "It's a short ride today, no problem." As I was starting to repair it, a young man on a motorbike stopped and came over with the energy of someone saying, "Leave it to me!"
In my heart, I assumed he would later ask for money. He tried fixing it, but the repair didn't work. Then he told me to wait and disappeared.
Thirty minutes later, he returned—holding a brand-new tube he had bought from a shop. When I tried to pay him, he simply smiled and said, "It's Christmas Eve, so this is my gift to you." And then he rode off.
I stood there, stunned and deeply moved. I was embarrassed that I had doubted him at first. That small act of kindness will stay with me for a long time.
More Kindness Along the Way
The food stall owner who let me use his space for repairs also showed kindness. After everything was fixed, he invited me to join a soccer game later that day. Unfortunately, I had plans in the evening, so I had to decline, but his warmth added another layer of gratitude to the journey.
Back on the road, the clouds grew darker, but I managed to reach Johor Bahru before the rain. It was a relief to finish the 56 kilometers with time to spare.
A Comfortable Stay
The hotel I checked into was compact, quiet, and welcoming—just the kind of place that makes me feel at ease after a ride. The staff greeted me with smiles, and the room even had an air purifier, something I had never seen in any hostel or guesthouse before. It felt almost luxurious.
An Evening to Remember
By 7 p.m., I headed to meet someone I had been introduced to by a friend I'd met in Cambodia. The place we met was far more elegant than I expected—one of those restaurants people usually save for a special occasion.
He told me, "Order whatever you like," but since I'm used to saying "anything is fine," I let him choose. Dishes arrived one after another: chicken, vegetables, lamb, and wine. For someone who usually eats at street stalls, this was a true feast.
I never imagined that my Christmas Eve would be filled with such generosity and joy.
