" An old man peddling down the path,
on his bicycle with a box full of Tart.
He had a horn that was on beat,
Announcing his arrival as he went by the street.
His weathered face, his eyes kind,
his voice a gentle breeze, soothing to the mind.
He also sold cakes and sweets, delicious and divine,
his presence made all worries leave behind.
I had no money sometimes to spare,
but the old man never bothered to care.
Still offering me a treat to share,
his gestures of kindness were of, no compare.
Years have passed, I still recall,
that angelic voice, his face so tall.
His cycle, his glass box and so sweet of him,
a memory that lingers, will never dim.
Now when I see a bicycle with a horn,
I get reminded of him, I am reborn,
With gratitude and memories that adorn,
those beautiful days, never to be forlorn.
Dear Sir, I hope you are happy
Still spreading your love and cheer,
I have been looking for you, from some time now,
to kiss you and raise you a glass of Beer."
Round About
Childhood memories are often filled with vibrant and nostalgic moments, and one of the most prominent memories for many people is the experience of interacting with street vendors. Whether it was the ice cream man or the local fruit and vegetable seller, vendors played a significant role in shaping the way we viewed the world around us. As a child, vendors were the epitome of excitement and joy. The sound of the ice cream truck jingle or the sight of a colorful fruit cart would send us into a frenzy of anticipation. We would beg our parents for a few coins to buy a treat, and the thrill of being handed our purchase was incomparable.
Life as vendor
Vendors also had a way of connecting us to our community. Their presence was a reminder that we lived in a bustling and diverse neighbourhood, where people from all walks of life came together to share in the simple pleasures of life. It was a reminder that we were not alone, but rather part of a larger tapestry of individuals.In addition to their social significance, vendors also taught us valuable life lessons. They were a model of entrepreneurship, hard work, and perseverance. We saw firsthand the long hours and dedication.
One of the BIGGEST CHALLENGES faced by vendors is the lack of legal recognition and protection. Many vendors operate without proper permits or licenses, which can lead to harassment and fines from local authorities. This can be particularly challenging for street vendors who are often at the mercy of local law enforcement, who may view them as a nuisance or a threat to public safety. Additionally, vendors often struggle with the unpredictable nature of their work. For street vendors, their income is largely dependent on factors such as weather conditions, foot traffic, and the availability of customers. This can make it difficult for them to plan for the future or make long-term investments in their business.
Another major challenge faced by vendors is the competition from larger businesses. Many small vendors struggle to compete with big-box retailers and multinational corporations, which have greater resources and economies of scale. This can make it difficult for vendors to attract customers and maintain a sustainable income.In addition to these challenges, vendors also face a range of social and economic pressures. Many vendors come from marginalized communities and face discrimination and stigma based on their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. This can make it difficult for them to access resources such as loans, education, or training that could help them grow their business.
Ultimately, the struggles faced by vendors are a reflection of broader societal issues such as inequality, discrimination, and lack of economic opportunity. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes policies and programs to support small businesses, reduce barriers to entry, and promote inclusive economic growth. As consumers and members of our communities, we can also play a role in supporting vendors by shopping locally, advocating for policies that support small businesses, and challenging stereotypes and discrimination. By recognizing the vital contributions of vendors and supporting their efforts to thrive, we can build a more just and equitable society for all.
Comments