Rebel Wired: Continuing the Curiosity

Piggybacking on the blog I wrote about a month back called "Culture Creates Curiosity" and my time in Antigua, I now find myself in another Country "Up North". To many living in Minnesota, oftentimes "Up North" is referred to as anywhere 2 hours or further "North" of the Twin Cities Minneapolis and St Paul. I would make the argument, that isn't really "Up North". You've got to go 4 hours or further to really experience the true "Up North". From where I am, the Canadian border is about 6 hours by car. To most reading this, I would classify this trip by all definitions as being "Up North". This one took 7 to 8 hours by car and another hour by boat. Why? Adventure. Curiosity.

Curiosity isn't just a trait we stumble upon—it's cultivated by the cultures we immerse ourselves in. This idea resonated deeply with me when I set out on this unforgettable adventure to Canada for the Walleye (fishing) opener. A journey that spanned over 8 hours, navigating winding roads and choppy waters to reach a secluded island. This trip was a testament to how the best things in life often require patience, perseverance, and a spirit of adventure.

The Call of the North

As I packed my gear and loaded the car, I felt a surge of excitement. There's something invigorating about answering the call of the wild, especially when it promises the thrill of fishing in the pristine waters and scenery of remote Canada. The journey ahead was long, but I knew that every mile covered would bring me closer to a destination where time slows down and nature's beauty takes center stage.

The Road Less Traveled

The drive was an experience in itself. Winding through scenic routes, passing through charming small towns, and witnessing the ever-changing landscape of the Canadian countryside, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder. Each bend in the road revealed new vistas, each stop along the way offered a glimpse into the local culture, adding layers to the tapestry of my journey.

Driving for hours on end can be tiring, but it also provides a rare opportunity for reflection. As the miles ticked by, I found myself contemplating the parallels between this journey and the broader journey of life. The best destinations, I realized, aren't always the easiest to reach. They require effort, determination, and an unwavering belief that the journey itself is just as important as the destination.

The Final Leg: By Boat to the Island

Arriving at the dock, I transferred my gear to the boat that would carry me to the island. The water stretched out before me, a vast expanse of possibility. The boat ride was a thrilling contrast to the steady pace of the drive. Waves splashed against the hull, the wind whipped through my hair, and navigating the open water and around different islands was yet another experience in itself.

There’s something magical about traveling by boat. It’s as if the water itself is a passage to a different world, where the usual rules don’t apply and the adventure is heightened. Each splash of the waves against the boat was a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences require us to leave the comfort of the familiar and venture into the unknown.

The Island: A Reward for the Journey

Finally, after hours of travel by land and water, the island came into view. Stepping onto the shore, I was greeted by the serene beauty of untouched nature. The air was crisp, the surroundings peaceful, and the promise of a world-class Walleye fishing expedition awaited.

Standing there, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. The journey had been long and challenging, but it was also richly rewarding. It reminded me that the good things in life—whether they’re found in the thrill of a catch, the warmth of a community, or the pursuit of a passion—often require us to go the extra mile, to embrace the adventure, and to cherish every step along the way.

Embracing the Adventure

After settling in, and again heading out by boat, as I cast my line into the clear waters, I thought about how this journey was more than just a trip for fishing. It was a reminder of the value of perseverance and the beauty of curiosity. By embracing the journey, with all its twists and turns, we open ourselves up to experiences that enrich our lives and deepen our appreciation for the world around us.

You, you reading this. Make the promise to yourself (and to me) right now, that you will follow your curiosity, that you will step out of your normal day to day, and you will find adventure. Whether it's across the country or within your own community, remember that the adventure itself is where the magic happens. It’s in the miles driven, the waves crossed, and the moments of quiet reflection that we truly find ourselves and the treasures we seek.

Stay Relentless,

Ryan