That he even got to the jetty was a miracle. But he had been determined to get to it, a place with many happy memories.
When he was young, he would fish here with his Grandfather. And in those many hours he would listen to stories, hear of long-ago adventures and learn from wisdom as he would share his problems with that wonderful old man.
As he looked down at that jetty now, its planking older and worn, he remembered those times. And wished his Grandfather was with him now. To help him to decide what was best.
He began the walk, dragging himself at times along the uneven pathway. The timber railings with their blistering, flaking paint and odd misaligned joints were still surprisingly sturdy after all this time. And finally, after what seemed like an age, he reached the end and looked into the deep water below.
It was gloomy out, rainy and miserable. Anyone with a sensible plan would not be out and about. He was alone.
He reached the very spot where he and his Grandfather would sit and fish. He pictured them both sitting, legs dangling over the edge, rods, reels and creel beside them.
If only the vision were real and he could ask if he was making the right decision.
He became aware of a figure behind him in the gloom. It approached, paused, and then sat down in that very same spot, looked up at him and then at the jetty deck and out to the water. So he sat down as well.
Then for the next hour or more he talked of his problems and fears. Of the pain and his depression. That he had wanted to seek help, but couldn't, for whatever reason. And all that he had shared was why he was here, at the end of this deserted lonely jetty.
And after sharing all that, pouring out to this strange companion, it was then that wisdom of words long since shared came to him. "Don't ever give up and never give in, each day brings with it, its own opportunities," and he realised what he should do. He got up and began to walk back.
He turned to thank his companion who had also stood up. And they both slowly walked back along the jetty together.
On the shore near the jetty a little boy walked with his Grandfather, both jumping in puddles as they walked, when the boy looked over.
"Grandad why is there a man walking with a pelican on our jetty?"
The elder looked over equally puzzled, "I really do not know, it is odd isn't it? Maybe they were fishing together!"
"It's not good to fish on your own, is it Grandad?"
"That is right my boy, it is not".
(If some thoughts here raised issues of concern for you, don't be afraid to seek out someone to talk to. A friend or a support group in your community just to talk to. Don't feel ashamed to do so, or let your pride or ego be the barrier to allowing yourself to walk back).
(Copyright 2021 Kevin Palmer, all rights reserved)