the Otter's Pool - web home of Ady Gould -

It was a tormenting farewell. We had spoken to the airport staff about our situation, but they seemed to have little interest. At the time for Gareth to board his plane, I held myself together, not wanting to upset him more by him seeing me shattered by the leaving again. It was hard not to bawl, but I held it together, with some comfort being taken from God. Gareth was crying as he walked down into the aircraft. I entrusted him to the Lord for the trip home, and went on the short walk to my departure area.

I sat waiting for my plane, wondering if he was OK. If anyone had spoken to me and asked if I was OK, it would have pushed me over the edge. I hated having that part of me torn away from me again. I did not want to travel home, but at the same time I was excited about being back in the town that, in many respects, I am part of.

The trip back was OK, but the fact I was greeted by a friendly face at the airport, in the shape of Ian, helped me. He took me home, gave me instructions of how to go around town, then left me to my own devices as he was working.

I just appreciated the time on my own. It was a blessing. I headed into Sydney, and wandered to the Opera House. I neglected to take my camera, as I wanted to enjoy the place for being itself, without being too much of a tourist.

I wandered around the park next to the Opera House, and enjoyed the scenery. I spent time with God talking to him, asking His opinion, and bathing in His love, His council, and His understanding.

I did a little shopping before wandering back to Ian's place. I listened to music, and contemplated my next few days. I was excited about getting back to the job, and was confident of being in God's will.

Ian returned home, and later his partner, Ian, also arrived. We had dinner, chatted, and Ian put me online to my friends around the globe. We chatted and laughed. Then I headed to bed, ready for an early rise and flight to Perth.

I woke, and sat there contemplating God's grace and mercy on my life. I said a short prayer of thanks for being with me all this time, and got ready to travel.