“That evening, as I took some time to relax and contemplate, I had an almost mystical experience. Gazing out at the expanse of water and the forested hills, a sense of destiny seemed to envelop me. This was where I belonged.” – Esther S. Keyser (Algonquin Park’s first female guide)
When I was at the British Museum in London a few months ago I took this picture because I knew what the totem pole must feel like: very far away from Canada. Most of the time I am completely comfortable here, in love with England’s people and history, and able to get by without too much fuss. Other times I feel desperate for home.
A friend of mine came over for lunch today. She is moving back to her home country after several years here. When I asked her a little while ago why she wanted to go home now she simply shrugged her shoulders and said, “It’s time.” It made me nervous because I knew what she meant. At some point your roots want to recognize the soil again.
Money and jobs and life keep us here for now. It was easier to move when all I needed was a bag and a visa. Husbands and careers take up a lot more room in the suitcase. Most of the time I am happy with the life we have created here, but sometimes I wish I had a crystal ball that could tell me when and if I will ever call North America home again. I know it is where I belong.
