It’s the beginning of the expedition, and we’re at Rafting Momentum (yes, you’re reading the right article. This is a story, so stay with me!). I’m sitting in a circle by the fire with 18 strangers (there are 19 of us in total) who are beginning to get to know one another. Loïs, who has spent several minutes carving a piece of wood, comes over to show me a tiny canoe and a miniature paddle. They both fit in the palm of my hand. I look at them and smile. The paddle is fragile, so delicate that it eventually breaks a little. This is the beginning. The story of the little canoe.
We’ve reached the halfway point of the expedition and are having our second circle. During this circle, we share our energy levels and one of our favourite moments. We’re on a beach near one of the waterfalls. One by one, everyone speaks, and I hear:
- The evening spent watching shooting stars by the fire
- The simple moments and uncontrollable laughter among friends
- The quiet moments on the water
- Swimming in the rapids
- Breakfast on the water
- And so on
It’s my turn. Across from me, I see Loïs carving a piece of wood. He’s making a canoe that is bigger and stronger than the first one. I immediately think, “I have several favourite moments, but this is one of the most important.” I share it with the group. I remember the little canoe from day one. I see that it has grown, becoming bigger, stronger and sturdier. I think about our group and feel that it represents us well. I’m emotional.
Tonight, we’re back at Rafting Momentum. I feel as though we’ve come full circle. I think about the little canoe and then the bigger one. I look at our group and at each person who is part of it. Everyone seems different to me. More open, freer, taller. We never return from an expedition exactly the same. There is always a before and an after, and what an “after” this is!
Time has passed so quickly. I feel as though we were still at this morning’s campsite only five minutes ago.
I can still see Eve-Marie sharing the details of the day.
I can still see Samy picking a flower and holding it under his nose so he could breathe in its scent for as long as possible, and then Steven laughing with him.
I can still see the bond between Loïs and Eve-Marie.
Marshall and Annik waiting patiently on the water.
I remember the look in Joel’s eyes, and then Sophie’s.
The catamaran made by Holley, Loïs, Elisabeth and Ambila.
I can still see Catherine’s eyes as we reconnect with civilization. I know we’ll miss the freedom of life in the forest.
I think about our arrival. The pride in their shining eyes. The love flowing through the endless hugs.
I can hear the cheers of joy when Hippolyte arrives with fresh fruits and vegetables.
Our final moment, between land and water.
Finally, I remember the celebration shared by the guides, facilitators and volunteers. Our “shot” of 100% pure maple syrup. The festive cookies and reimagined s’mores made by Elisabeth and Mya (two Celebration cookies with a Rice Krispies square in the middle, in case you’d like to try them).
I’m sitting in the café while everyone has fun upstairs. Ping-pong, the presentation of certificates, dessert—it’s a celebration!
I go to bed with a heavy heart. Sending you all these photos and writing this text makes me feel a little nostalgic. I’m going to miss them (and writing to you too), but at least we still have tomorrow.
Good night!
Geneviève
