“Car packed!” John announced. “But no hurry,” he added. “We’ve plenty of time.”
“We know you Dad,” Joe laughed. “We’d better head off!”
Immediately Joe was surrounded and systematically hugged by his three siblings, their wives and his growing number of nieces and nephews.
“Take it easy all of you. No need to hurry back, Dad. You and Mum ought to have a bit of a break.” Their second son, Len, voiced the message for all his brothers. Len and brother Don and wives had settled on the property some years ago and were gradually taking over the running of the property as their father began to plan his retirement. The eldest son, Bill, a pharmacist in Coonabarabran, his wife and children had arrived early to join the family for the special breakfast and farewell to his youngest brother.
For all this was a moment in time. For Joe especially, this was an experience he had never anticipated. During his years at boarding school this was home. During his years in the seminary this was home. But now he was stepping into a new world, a new life.
His thoughts were interrupted by big brother Bill. “You know Joe, we’re all proud of you. And you know too – or we hope you do – that there will always be a spot for you here – that as long as you want it, this will always be home for you.” He finished by giving Joe a brotherly hug.
“Thanks Bill.” Joe fought back tears.
“Well, we’d better hit the road!” With John’s announcement Joe was surrounded once more with brothers, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.
The day was warm and cloudless. The car sailed along the straight sea of bitumen. After a stop over at Dubbo for lunch, they were on their way again, this time with Joe at the wheel.
They reached Bathurst in time for Joe to collect the Mazda his father had ordered for him. Then on to the motel they had booked for the night.
Joe’s appointment with the bishop was mid-morning the next day. After breakfast John and Mary decided to return home. “As long as you have a car and don’t need us,” Mary added.
“You know they’ll manage at home without you,” Joe smiled. Then added seriously, “This could be a good time for a couple of days in the mountains – just a short drive from here. Time out for you both.”
“No Joe. Perhaps another time. We’ve decided to head back now.”
Joe hugged them both. What great people! What wonderful parents!