The Journey

The SD46 Spirit Canoe – s-yéwen s-néxwílh

Going in a couple of days to Powell River to be a part of the Pulling Together Journey 2012 – Return to Sliammon from July 2nd to 10th.  This will be my third canoe journey with School District No.46 (Sunshine Coast) Spirit Canoe.  First and foremost, I feel honoured and privileged to be a part of the 2012 Journey and look forward to it.

Initially, I was not on the original crew list for this canoe journey.  I was a late addition.  I am glad to be back, but I was also good with the idea of inviting new people to paddle.  Truthfully, I thought it was a good sign from the universe that my transformation was complete and proceed with life.  Apparently, this is not the case and I’m back.

The intentions of the Journey is to build relations with the police/RCMP and aboriginal youth.  This year, the Return to Sliammon, is hosted by the Vancouver Police and Collingwood Aboriginal Youth Canoe Club.  For me, the Journey is a catalyst.  In chemistry, a catalyst is not consumed by the chemical reaction, but the rate of reaction is expediated.

In 2010, I was a secondary mathematics and science teacher, I met my BFF on the Journey (and I’m her side-kick), turned 40, and left the teaching profession.  In 2011, I was self-employed continuing my graduate studies in educational leadership, I had to forgive myself, redefine my purpose, and find my self-worth.  Whew.  It was not an easy task.

In 2012, I am now a school trustee, still continuing with my studies, and my business is flourishing.  I love what I am doing, I work at Simon Fraser University, and I’m taking advantage of opportunities as a graduate student and municipal politician.  Not being invited on the 2012 journey was a good sign.  Being invited back makes me curious.

I believe that things happen for a reason.  I love working with the youth on the journey and meeting new people.  What I do appreciate are the life lessons to be learned along the way.  I feel the same excitement today as I did on my first journey in 2010.  No expectations, but wondering what may happen.  If anything, I will be learning something new.

If you want to follow the Sunshine Coast Pulling Together crew during the 2012 Pulling Together Canoe Journey in Powell River – Sliammon… follow our blog at http://sunshinecoastpullingtogether2012.wordpress.com/ or Twitter: @PullingTogether.  It’s my job on the journey to stay in touch the the outside world on behalf of the #SCPT2012.