"I get knocked down, but I get up again"

Come back in time with me to about 7 years ago.

I was unemployed. I had been for so long that I was really starting to struggle financially. I’d gone to so. many. interviews but hadn’t been offered the job.

With my self-esteem at an all time low, I went into Centrelink to sign on for the JobSeeker payment (like the dole if you’re reading this from overseas).

Anytime anyone goes into Centrelink, they need to prepare for a long wait. Wear comfy clothes and bring some water with you.

I’d been waiting over an hour when Alun rang. I felt like everyone looked at me with my phone going off. Embarrassed, I answered in hushed tones “Hi”

“Hey” Alun sounded so happy. I love his Welsh accent and that his voice sounds so young and so filled with hope.

“What are you up to?” he asked.

I didn’t want Alun to know I was struggling, so I lied.

“Err…just waiting to be interviewed. I uhh have to go – typing test. Bye” I whispered, voice shaking because I suck at lying.

“Okay. Love you” Alun hung up.

I took deep breaths and tried to keep tears from falling; reminding myself that at some point, a lot of people can’t find work and that we all pay taxes for these very situations; to help those out who need the extra help – It’s okay, JD. Calm down.

I could sense someone walking towards me. I looked up – and it was Alun.

He must have known all along where I was.

So he knows I lied, too. Great.

I braced myself for being told off.

That didn’t happen.

Instead, Alun hunkered down next to me and gave me a lunchbox.

“I made you some sandwiches and put some little snacks in for while you wait. I also brought you the juice you like” and he placed a bottle of my favourite “orange C” next to the lunchbox.

I couldn’t move, I was so ashamed of having lied and so touched by Alun’s forgiveness and thoughtfulness.

Tears slipped down my eyes and I hastily wiped them away with my shirt sleeve.

“Love you” Alun whispered and kissed the top of my head.

He was still waiting in the car park when I came out 2 hours later, too.

This is the guy for me. I’m so thankful for Alun in my life.