Carrying a camera on my walks helps me stop and take another look. This driftwood on the beach captivated me with the hole opening to the Fall scene beyond. What made me stop and notice was the morning light that was starting to spill over the sand dune reaching the hole in the root of this tree. Light beckoned and the stage for a unique photo captured my imagination.
Where I began started a journey of discovery as I moved in for a closer look marvelling at the lines etched into the wood, the paths they formed, the twists of the roots and the immensity of its presence lodged into the sandy shore.
What life had it lived? What life had it supported? Where did its roots plant themselves digging further for sustenance? How many leaves had it shed? How many offshoots did it spawn? Curiosity kept me rooted and exploring the surfaces of the tree’s existence.
Beauty revealed itself in every moment. Awe expanded and filled the gaps of me as I took another look at the life that embraces me daily in all its diversity, in all its silent contributions.
What would it take for me to take another look at the lives of those who are often discarded in our societies, drifting around? The ones who struggle to find shelter, who struggle to live with unspeakable pasts, who struggle to be in the present, whose lives are considered to be less valuable than the privileged in our communities.
What does it take for us all to “step into another person’s shoes” and walk with them? What would we discover if we could see the lines of life etched on their very being?
I know I have found incredible beauty in such encounters. A ready smile, a greeting, a joke made, kindness shown, a life story slowly revealed.
The first look for most of us is often the last with quick judgment clouding the view, blocking the light that longs to spill over.
I want to take another look. I want to take the moment to let the first reaction of judgment pass and do what love commands us to, act. A smile, a nod of acknowledgment, a friendly greeting, time to have a conversation.
And yes, real change in how we structure our societies in a way that dismantles systemic racism, builds equity of opportunity, supports mental and physical health, treats addictions as a health issue first and foremost, provides safe shelter for those in need and makes the environment a healthy space for all species.
We can all take another look if we let that light spill into our consciousness.
To fellow Slave Lake residents, send your letters of support to the Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre for renting the old Medical/Parent Link building for the Mat program and expanding the services provided to the homeless in our community beyond an emergency Homeless Shelter. They are looking to support those struggling with mental health/addictions issues which includes the youth who are currently couch surfing and at huge risk. Address your letters to the Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre (SLNFC), you can drop your letters off there or email: mattcoordinator@gmail.com Phone: 780-849-3039 if you have questions and/or want clarification.
