After a hectic week in Minnesota, we finally made it to Grand Marais. The road was long but fun. Along the way, I had my first Subway experience, choosing my own sandwich. Of course, I went with tuna and cheese, the only option for me since I only eat Halal food.
The drive took almost six hours, switching between cars to spend time with other fellows. But David McDonald’s car stayed my favorite, with Bob Dylan playing in the background. When “Something There Is About You” came on, it felt like the perfect soundtrack for the road ahead.
Stepping into Grand Marais was calming. The greeting from the local community and the host families felt, somehow, like home. We spent three days there, and in that time we quickly became part of the community – the talk of the town, or “the village,” as my host family called it.
During our stay, we visited the local radio station, met schoolchildren; and prepared for our first public forum. Everyone told us we would be nervous at the start but unstoppable once we began – and that turned out to be true. Standing on stage, holding a microphone for the first time (I am usually behind the scenes), felt daunting at first. But the questions and warmth of the people in Grand Marais made everything easier.
The town gave me many new experiences: my first potluck, where everyone brought a dish to share, and canoeing experience, which I absolutely loved. The calmness of the lake and the rhythm of paddling felt so natural, as if I had done it before. I did not really follow the rules we were told: I just moved with the water and the wind, which is very much the pace I follow in my life. Sending my first postcard home to my family was another small but meaningful moment. I already miss them, but writing a few words and imagining their faces when they read it made me feel connected to home.
On our last day in Grand Marais, I took off my shoes and dipped my bare feet into the icy water of Lake Superior. Standing there with the other fellows –who feel closer every day – was healing. Somehow, the cold water and the quietness of the lake made all the walking and hiking worth it. For a moment, life slowed down and gave me the space to reflect on how lucky I am to be here.
