Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: COFFEE BREAK / TEA BREAK (03/01/18)
-
TITLE: Change of Venue | Previous Challenge Entry
By linda simpson
03/08/18 -
LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE
SEND A PRIVATE COMMENT
ADD TO MY FAVORITES
It was my treat every Wednesday to have afternoon tea out after my shift at 'Silver Birches'Retirement Home finished at 4:00pm. Hubby James started several hours part-time work at 3:00pm,so this was my 'chill-out' time. I was free to do as I pleased.
Today, after months of Wednesdays at 'Barney's Bakery', I felt like a change of venue.
I spotted a new sandwich board which had appeared at the end of a lane way off High Street.
“Delicious freshly baked scones. Try our Devonshire Tea with REAL cream”
My taste buds were aroused – investigation was needed.
The brick path shaded by a vine covered pergola, led me to 'Plum Tree Cafe'. Aluminum and formica tables with vinyl chairs of different colours were visible through the window. A black and white tiled floor and bright table decorations indicated 'retro'. It was small and quiet. Just what I was looking for. There were only two other young women at a table in the far corner deep in conversation.
Walking to the counter, I gave my order and paid, anticipating my mouth sinking into luscious cream on top of jam and a fluffy scone. My thoughts, though, were interrupted. Receiving my change, a two dollar coin dropped on the floor, rolled right across the room and stopped under the occupied table.
I hurried over.
“I'm so sorry to interrupt but...”
By this time one of them was bending over to retrieve the coin.
“Not a problem'” she said straightening up, brushing back blond hair from her face.
“Ann!” she gasped “Fancy seeing you here. How are you?”
“Jenny!” I replied giving her a hug. “It's been so long. The last time we met was during your farewell party at Silver Birches, just before you went to England. How was your trip?”
“It's a long story. I'm so glad to see you. We'll have to get together” she replied.
Deciding to meet the next Wednesday for afternoon tea, Jenny rejoined her friend.
I turned my attention to the inviting order on my table. It certainly lived up to expectations, but as I savoured every bite there was concern for Jenny. She seemed to be trying unsuccessfully to hide her lost sparkle. She reminded me of a wilting flower.
The following week after our scrumptious Devonshire tea, we decided to go to my place where we could talk more privately. It didn't take long before my previous suspicions were confirmed. Jenny confessed she was about 8 weeks pregnant. The father back in England had want her to have an abortion.
Jenny and her family belonged to our church. Gradually, though, while overseas, Jenny's relationship with Christ had dwindled. Fearful of her parents reaction, she hadn't yet told them.
“I thought he would stand by me- but no. So I came home. I won't have an abortion, this is my baby. Beside there can be dreadful emotional after-effects. I don't know if I can raise a child on my own. Perhaps it be could adopted. I thought he loved me. Why was I so foolish?” she sobbed in her confusion, riddled with guilt and condemnation.
My heart went out to her.
“Please remember Jenny that Jesus still loves you, no matter what.” I said putting my arm around her.
“He will forgive you and He won't even remember your sins. When you say you are sorry and ask for forgiveness it is dealt with straight away. Jesus will be with you through this!”
Jenny was quiet for a while then acknowledged
“I need to get my life back on track – I've made a real mess of things. I'd like to pray now if that's OK?”
We knelt together. Jenny renewed her relationship with Christ trusting He would help in her situation.
The next day Jenny, after a night of prayer, decided to keep the baby and visited our pastor Tim. He assured her of his support wherever necessary. Her parents accepted the situation more quickly than hoped. They would lovingly stand by her, giving as much help as possible.
More Wednesday afternoon teas at Plum Tree Cafe followed, with chats and prayer at home. The congregation had welcomed Jenny back. Knitting needles were clicking, creating precious gifts and there was no lack of 'aunts and uncles', when little Mary, arrived. What a thrill and privilege it was to then become one of her godparents!
It's amazing what can happen as the result of an afternoon tea.
The opinions expressed by authors may not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
Accept Jesus as Your Lord and Savior Right Now - CLICK HERE
JOIN US at FaithWriters for Free. Grow as a Writer and Spread the Gospel.