Not everyone would understand my desire? drive? excitement? to camp when there was snow in the forecast for May long . . . or, in fact, to travel almost 400 km in crappy conditions to get there. Add to that, that I was headed to an area with sketchy cell service to join a group of people I barely knew and some may view the decision as yet another questionable life choice on my part.

But here’s the thing, I did it to challenge myself – to step out of my comfort zone; I did it to get off the farm after the winter that just would not end; I did it weighing the risks (I am so grateful that a last minute change of plans saw me stay in a small cabin with my dogs versus a prospector tent but I was prepared to rough it); and I did it to give back.

I don’t believe people volunteer because they have extra time. I think we do it because something inside us refuses to stay untouched by the needs of others. For me, it comes from a sense of gratitude — from remembering the moments when someone showed up for me, offered kindness, or made a difficult season feel less heavy. Giving back feels like a way of honouring that.

Volunteering is also an act of belief. It is choosing to believe that small efforts matter, even when they go unnoticed. In a world that often measures value in money or achievement, there is something deeply human about giving time simply because someone else needs it.

What surprises me most is that service rarely takes away from my life; it adds to it. Even when the work is tiring or imperfect, there is meaning in showing up — in listening, helping, organizing, comforting, or simply being present. Those moments create connection, not only with others, but with a deeper sense of purpose within myself.

At the heart of it, I volunteer because I want to leave the places and people around me a little better than I found them. And in doing so, I find that I am changed too and maybe that is the greatest gift of all.

About the stone egg installation at Ness Creek – “Black River White granite is a light grey to white biotite granite quarried in southeastern Manitoba, primarily exposed near the Black River along Highway 304. Part of a gneissic rock complex, this natural stone is primarily used as a durable structural, monumental, and dimension stone. The Black River area is recognized as a strategic zone for dimension stone potential, featuring strongly oxidized magnetite-series granites. While similar in name to imported decorative “River White” stones used for kitchen countertops, the specific Black River White variety is a prominent piece of local geology.” – from the province of Manitoba website

An egg-shaped granite* combines the universal spiritual symbolism of the “Cosmic Egg” (rebirth, creation, and new beginnings) with the deep, steadfast grounding energy of the earth. It is widely considered a powerful talisman for transitioning into new life chapters while remaining rooted and protected.

The egg is a deeply sacred geometric and symbolic form across numerous cultures and religions.New Beginnings & Rebirth: Like an unhatched chick, an egg symbolizes breaking out of old shells, fresh starts, and profound personal transformation.

Creation & The Cosmos: often called the “Cosmic Egg,” it embodies the origin of the universe and the unmanifest potential before it becomes reality.

Energetic Flow: in crystal healing, the egg shape is used to detect and sweep away energy blockages. Its shape evenly radiates energy.

*gleaned from a variety of online resources