Memory Lane

We’ve all sat and listened to friends, family and elders regale nostalgic stories of long ago. I love a good story and have fond memories of sitting with my great-grandfather and hearing him tell me of what he got up to ‘when he was a boy’ growing up in the Cooranbong area; when letters were the only form of long-distance communication, cars were only for the wealthy and students had to bare feet walk many kilometres to school each morning.

Moving back to Cooranbong in July, having lived overseas and interstate for the past 14 years, I have found myself in a reflective mood as I visit places and reconnect with people from years gone by. Attending the grand opening of the recently redeveloped Cooranbong Park, seeing the changes to the shopping precincts in Morisset and walking around the campus of Avondale School I can attest that while some things change, others very much remain the same. I vividly recall events from my teenage years involving staff who still teach at Avondale School, but those are stories for perhaps another time.

The recent passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is a significant event for many people across the world. In loungerooms, cafés and staff lunchrooms stories of the ‘good old days’ from times long past will no doubt be exchanged as time is taken to pause and reflect.

It often takes a seismic event such as an interstate move or the passing of someone we knew for us to take time from the busyness of life to take stock of what we consider to be important. For me, that is the relationship that I have with my friends, my family and my God. Great memories and strong relationships are created when we spend time together. 

Matthew 6:19-21 encourages us to spend our time wisely and Psalm 90:12 reminds us to make each day count. With the upcoming public and school holidays just around the corner, let us take the opportunity to intentionally invest in making the time and creating memories with those we love and care for.

Mr Darren Martin

Secondary Academic Coordinator