On his return home, after a very trying and lengthy week away, a father and husband steps into his garden and immediately know the works of the land during his absence. The scent in the air, the cold silence of his offspring all sitting quietly around his chair awaiting his presence. His better half calls out from the kitchen... "Welcome home honey dinner is ready"... taking note that she did not come out to greet him. He soberly washes for dinner.
He, taking his place at the head of the table raises his hands to offer grace; afterward, they all sit and begin to eat. Before he starts his meal, he observes his family and knows immediately there is unrest here. For confirmation, he looks deeply at his wife as she serves him his food. Her head bowed from hurt, visible lines of stress upon her brow. Seeing this he glares at each-and-every one of his children... individually, inquisitively; a look that asks... are you the one that has robbed me of MY reward?
They all silently one by one gazed towards "their brother" who looks up at his father with fear in his eyes, then downwards in shame and confusion. Unsure of himself he continued to eat his meal as if it was his last... slowly and deliberately.
After their uneasy dinner, he announces "my son and I are going for a walk don’t wait up". The young man as well as everyone else know what this walk is about: "law and order" which could take unquestionable time.
Nervously the women of the house completed their chores and made ready for bed in silence. All were filled with mixed emotions for the events currently taking place within the family structure. Mother hurried the girls off with a loving kiss and big hug on behalf of father. You know your father is doing what’s best she gently whispered to them as she turned to leave them to their thoughts and prayers.
Putting the kettle on to brew chamomile tea and honey mother sits alone in the candlelit kitchen while the clock ticked away minute by minute. A cool breeze blowing in from the west window kept her company during the quiet of the night.
Upon their return after a lengthy absence the mother shows a sign of relief. Both her men have returned intact. The young man is not whimpering or shouting. However, everyone can tell he is quietly grimacing and walking stiffly. All wondered what grueling chore or regiment he had to endure. He never made eye contact with anyone but dutifully went up into his room.
Father looks at his wife and embraces her tightly... whispers softly into her ear... "he'll learn my love... in time he'll learn". She nuzzles deeper into him... yielding all built up emotions unto his being. Her submission fortifies him; strengthens him and seals their oneness.
They soon sit together at their humble table sipping tea and talked about the joys of their lives and the promising future of their children whom they loved intensely.
