Tourniquet-Life-Down-Under

The Contented Man

It was a planned trip,a reunion that took twelve years in coming... and in case you were guessing, yes, I met my uncle whom I have not spoken to in over a decade last weekend.

Yet, the intial burst of excitement over the phone soon turned into doubts and fears on the train to meet him. Am I imposing on them? How should I handle awkward situations? Wild thoughts that raged in my mind as I began to wonder...

These butterflies in my stomach were soon quelled when I boarded the car. A warm handshake and a tacit approval with his smile was enough. We were off and he brought me to his favourite Japanese noodle shack for lunch. Over the course of a hearty meal, we chatted and updated one another of our lives. There was so much to catch up on, our conversation did not cease, not even for a minute.

Lunch was over and we arrived at the house. Yes, this wondeful mansion which I stayed in when I visited him over a decade ago. Memories, beautiful memories flooded back into my mind. I was still young at that time and it was my first visit to the country. I was greeted by my Aunt at the entrance and we had a short chat. She still remembered when I first visited, the young boy who spent the whole night up playing video games and sleeping on the journey to the Blue Mountains. The boy who whined endlessly when told that the journeys to scenic spots took two to three hours instead of his accustomed twenty minute trips.

After having tea in the house, my uncle and I spent the whole afternoon taking a stroll around his neighbourhood and the beach. He spoke at length about his decision to leave and live in another country. It was difficult initially but he was comforted by the frequent trips home. He found his true love and eventually settled down, permanently. Although he did profess missed opportunities, never once did he express disappointment on missing out. My uncle was, in short, a contented man.

Over a few drinks, my uncle spoke to me about his aspirations. Although he could not achieve them all, he remained glad he gave it a go. I was enthralled by his narration and could not help but appreciate how things have worked out... We finished the afternoon looking at the sea and taking the slow stroll home.

He took me and his family (including my two cousins) to dinner and I hung out with my cousins for a bit after dinner. This was a happy family and I was glad to have been invited to spend the day with them. Although my uncle did extend the invitation for me to stay the night, I had to depart, albeit unwillingly, due to prior commitments. I will be back, I promised...

I marvel at his contentment and disparage the naive concerns which sometimes besot and inundate people's lives. Seeking that contentment though, is another whole new story.

Lest I forget, today also happens to be Mother's Day. To Mum, whereever you may be at this moment, please take a minute off your busy daily routine and enjoy your special day. Take care for now...

posted by -tourniquet- @ 5/13/2007 11:05:00 am