Solitary quest forces columnist to bid farewell

Page 7

FIRST PERSON

Dear Readers:

Writing this column, my last, is possibly the hardest task I've had to face in a while. Knowing what to jot down is difficult.

One thing is certain, the past two-and-a-half years have been fruitful. Much of

'91 and '92 was spent on the road, lecturing and canoeing the nation. I'm grateful for the opportunities travel has given me to learn about different cultures in the High Arctic, Mexico, United States, New Zealand and Australia (where I am now). Nevertheless, I've come to the conclusion that all my passions for world discovery were essentially large-scale searches of hidden esoteric truths, and myself.

Now I truly know how much knowledge I really lack. No wonder the Elders are usually quiet. Younger people are weak because they think they know so much! In the face of life's awesome experiences and adventures, a sense of humility appears to be the best anchoring tool.

This adventure I've embarked on is a quest, and must be done alone. Hardly escapism, as many believe. It would be a shame to keep inside the lessons I have learned. They will be shared, but now is not the right time.

So what is my direction? Well, I still love writing. Perhaps a series of books will appear shortly. Lecturing is still another source of enjoyment.

Rather than thanking at great lengths all the people who have helped me, I will simply extend my gratitude towards everyone, especially the readers and staff of Windspeaker. We may not have agreed on everything and I'll admit a few of my musings shocked even me, but just sharing our ideas was important. Writing this column has been a fine experience.

As I glimpse back in time, I see a confused young man who wasted his energies in many counter-productive ways. He suffered an identity crisis in early youth, yet became stronger for it. His most powerful lessons were taught by Mother Earth during a canoeing odyssey.

And he relearned an immensely value lesson: that which is conceivable in the mind, already exists. That which cannot, never will.

My friends, trees talk - they really do. And animals as well. And rocks, and water! Will you begin the conversation? A late July fire sign with the water bearer rising tells you that all of reality is in our father's and mother's creation. Humankind's reality is an illusion. His reality is gauged by what everyone else is doing.

But one day, the youth will awaken. You are your own hero and heroine.

See you later my friends. My re-entry in the literary world will be a whisper....