“Well Joe, a few grey hairs up top perhaps! But you seem to be weathering life pretty well,” was his greeting from Dr. David Nancarrow.
“Thanks, Dave. And you’re looking pretty good for your age!” retorted Joe.
Tall, slim, with olive skin inherited from his Asian mother, David Nancarrow’s handshake was firm.
“Great to see you Joe. I’ve always wished there could have been some sort of reunion of that first year for all of us. But we seemed to go in different directions. So many of us left that first year – for various reasons.”
“Great to see you again, Dave. But I’d rather it had been more a social get-together. ”
“In the future, I hope,” Dave answered. “For now, come in. I’ll get the coffee brewing. Still a coffee man?”
Joe nodded.
“Right,” Dave continued. “Fresh scones, here somewhere. I have a very efficient secretary. I told her she could have the morning off, but I needed fresh scones and cream prepared first.” He laughed. “Yes, she’s an asset.”
The scones, already creamed, were found, coffee poured and, sitting beside the small table, both men exchanged stories of various members of their previous class.
Quite unexpectedly, Dave changed subjects.
“Joe, it would be great if we could spend all morning reminiscing. First – more coffee? Okay. Now… Something is hurting you deeply. Start anywhere you like.”
Joe had been feeling quite relaxed up to now. He felt his muscles becoming taunt; his head began to swim.
“Oh!” was his reply.
“It’s okay, Joe. I know this is hard – harder for some more than others. Just tell me how you feel about anything for starters.”
How would you know how bloody hard it is, thought Joe to himself. Settle down, Joe. You’re here to get his help. Think!
Minutes passed. Silence hung heavily in the room.
Now or never, Joe thought, as he began. At first hesitantly, slowly he found strength of purpose to let out not only his story, but also his fear, his pain, his despair for the future.
Dave listened intently, now and then asking a pertinent question.
Hours later, Joe looked at his watch. “Heavens, Dave. Is that the time! Sorry. I’ve over-stayed my time.”
“It’s fine,” Dave replied. You’re doing well, Joe. And you will come back tomorrow, won’t you?”
“Well, you didn’t eat me up today, did you?” Joe smiled feebly.
Joe returned the following day. Once again the coffee was brewing, this time side by side with a plate of freshly made cup cakes. Joe found it easier this day than the day before. He had recounted his story, now he was to deal with feelings and ultimate decisions.
He returned the third day, gradually becoming aware that the future was up to him.
Dave had used his expertise to assist him to the obvious – the future was in his hands; the past was that – it would never return; Naomi would never be back.
As he left on the third day Joe expressed his gratitude to Dave by passing over a bottle of expensive wine.
“Thanks, Joe. There was no need for that. Still, we’ll enjoy it immensely,” he added, with a laugh. Then continued seriously, “You’ve come a long way in a few days, Joe. But don’t be disappointed if you slip back a bit – it’s a long road. Keep pushing ahead – you’ve already come a long way. And, don’t forget, there is life ahead.”
“Thanks,” Joe whispered as he squeezed the offered hand. “And the guys and I will meet up with you for a drink soon I hope,” he added.
“I’d like that,” Dave answered meaningfully.