Life proceeded for Julian as it had done for the past few years – but not quite. As he celebrated the liturgy each day, he was just as aware of this great mystery. It would be different – he would celebrate it in another way. And his lifestyle- well, that was unknown for now.
The dispensation came through eventually. But the official notice, per mail, was preceded a few days earlier by a personal note from the bishop. The note reflected sentiments expressed at their meeting and ended with his blessing. Bernard had previously appointed a replacement in his parish and in the office of Canon Law.
It was with feelings of gratitude and nostalgia that Julian moved from his former life. It had been a very eventful ten years, a basically happy ten years, but also a period of questioning. Questions came and some went with answers. But many remained. Some, he accepted, may never be answered; others, he hoped, may eventually be resolved through time and experience.
Eddie and Joe phoned constantly for the first few weeks, knowing this transition would be a mammoth one. The calls were short and light-hearted. Julian appreciated the mateship behind them. His family ensured that his time spent with them was no different to that of before. He knew his time of discernment had passed. But he still had to find the next road of his journey in life.
Indirectly, it was Eddie who gave him the nudge. In helping Eddie solve his major pastoral problem, he was able to interpret his own feelings and interests and begin on his new journey of life. Then followed Joe’s tragic experience. In taking over Eddie’s needs for legal answers, he knew where his professional life was heading.
With his previous academic results, Julian had no problem in being accepted in Law II for the following year.
“Time for us all to have a holiday,” his father declared. “I’ve booked us all, including Tom and Co., ten days in Fiji just after Christmas.”
This family holiday was the catalyst Julian needed. Not only was it a special family time, but also it gave him the help he needed to gently close the door on the past ten years. He knew he would often look back to the memorable parts of those years. But, he also knew he had closed the door on those years. His decision for the future had been made. What would come? He had no idea. Yet he looked forward to this new chapter of his life with faith and hope. And he knew, when needed his family and friends would always be his support.