Soaring Together

George shared something with me a while back that I continue reflecting on. He talked about how canoe paddlers train by hanging buckets in the water to create drag, building their strength through their collective commitment to resistance. But when race time comes, the buckets are lifted, and the canoe moves forward with focus and commitment — carrying the strength that was built along the way.

That image has stayed with me, reminding me of both the struggles that shape us and the people we choose to paddle alongside. In his reflection below, George draws on another teaching — this time from the eagle — about how those around us shape the way we rise.

In our journey through life, wisdom can come from unexpected places.

Recently, I found myself reflecting on a quote from the movie "Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift," where the character Han shares a profound truth: "Who you choose to be around you lets you know who you are." As I consider this through my Indigenous lens, these words resonate deeply with traditional teachings about community and personal growth.

This past year has been transformative for me, both personally and professionally. I've witnessed tremendous growth in myself, largely due to the nurturing environment I've cultivated. My workplace has become a sanctuary where my identity is honoured and respected, creating a foundation of confidence that naturally elevates the quality of my work. By consciously choosing to surround myself with great leaders, I've found myself in a reciprocal relationship of growth - they help elevate my work, and in turn, I contribute to their professional and personal development.

Our Elders teach us to be mindful of the company we keep, and there's wisdom in this ancient knowledge. When we find ourselves in the wrong company, we risk being pulled down to their level - as the saying goes, “crawling on the ground with the snakes”.

It's crucial to evaluate not only our environment but also our contributions to it.

Are we lifting others up, or are we becoming a hindrance? This self-reflection can be challenging, as it often leads to necessary but difficult changes. Yet, it's only by freeing ourselves from what holds us back that we can truly begin our journey of growth. In our traditions, we often look to the natural world for guidance. The eagle, which soars higher than any other bird, teaches us about the importance of our associations. Eagles fly with eagles - it's a simple but powerful reminder that we rise to the level of those around us.

This summer, I had the privilege of observing two eagles near my home. Their flight pattern was revealing - they didn't immediately shoot for the heights but took their time, starting with flight before moving into a glide, gradually gaining altitude.

This mirrors our own journey of growth: we must learn at a pace that allows us to fully experience what the Creator has in store for us, while always striving to leave a positive impact on our circle. Your environment possesses the power to either nurture or hinder your growth. As you reflect on your own circle, consider this question: Are you surrounding yourself with those who will hold you down, or those who will help you reach new heights? The answer to this question might just determine the altitude of your own flight.

As I sit with George’s words, I find myself reflecting on my own role in this journey. Am I lifting my buckets so I can move forward with clarity and purpose? Am I soaring in ways that honour the people who choose to soar alongside me? Most importantly, am I being the kind of partner in this work who strengthens, steadies, and lifts others?

These are the questions I carry with me, and I am deeply grateful to George and our mentors for reminding me to keep striving toward the kind of presence that truly helps the whole canoe move forward.

🧡 Kim