All roads lead to Atherton part 1

Jane and I packed our bags last weekend, and headed high into the Atherton Tablelands for a weekend getaway. (The Tablelands are about four hours north of Townsville, and an hour south of Cairns, in the hinterland. There is little or no humidity, and the climate is typically quite kind- enough rain, and enough sun!). We had booked an indulgence package at a place called Eden House in Yungaburra (check out their website- www.edenhouse.com.au) and were definitely looking forward to getting away. The package included two nights in a spa villa, a spa treatment each, two breakfasts, and a three course dinner.

On arrival, we discovered that Eden House is owned by the Chuck Family, who had the misfortune to lay one of their sons to rest last Thursday following a helicopter accident in Afghanistan. We both so impressed by the ability of the family to just keep going through what must be a truly horrific time. 

I was reminded by a poem I have seen, and thought I would publish it here-

'The Final Inspection'

The soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass,
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, you soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?"

The soldier squared his shoulders and
said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough,
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.

I know I don't deserve a place
Among the people here,
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand,
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand."

There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod,
As the soldier waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, you soldier,
You've borne your burdens well,
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."

God bless the Chuck family, and may Ben rest easy. His job is done.