Counios & Gane: Journeys
It’s all about maps and patience
David
A month ago (at least, I think it was month ago. Who can tell anymore, amirite?), I read Maps of the Imagination: The Writer as Cartographer by Peter Turchi, in which he talks about how writers and map makers document the world as they discover it.
It’s a beautiful metaphor and when I think back on Shepherd’s Call, I can really see it.
At the start, we had a map, but halfway through, we realized that we’d taken a detour and become a little lost. We knew where we were going, we just had to figure out our new route.
This process took us to unexpected places where we met new characters we never knew existed. The whole thing was a little exciting and a little overwhelming.
It took us a while to familiarize ourselves with the land and we had to retrace some of our steps to get our bearings. But In the end, I think the new journey was worth it.
I can’t wait to share it with you.
Angie
As a teacher, patience is a skill I’ve really worked on. Yet, every spring in Saskatchewan, I have to practice it a little more.
But it’s difficult. Like really difficult.
During this time of year, I can’t wait for warm temperatures and the tiny little flowers buds to bloom into something beautiful. Then some days I look at the forecast, and I’m ready to explode from frustration.
The other morning on my walk to work, it was snowing (snowing, people!). Thankfully, by the time the workday was done, I strolled home in full, warm sunshine—a satisfying, hopeful reward that the season was finally turning.
This impatience is the same as when I go on a very long road trip. At first, I’m gung ho and thrilled (almost annoyingly so), I’m looking at everything, taking photos, laughing, and talking.
Eventually, I run out of patience, get tired and frustrated and the words “Are we there yet?” roll out of my mouth a little more than I want them to. (I may not always say it, but I definitely think it.)
Then, when I get to my destination, I remember why I started the trip in the first place. I’m rewarded with a new experience, a beautiful view, a visit with friends, and the proof that this journey was so worth it.
And of course, it is the same with our newest book Shepherd’s Call. I’ve had to hit my patience button a few times—but in the end, the reward has definitely been worth it!