I live in an interesting place. It's transient... remote and people will do crazy things to get here. Just yesterday I saw a Kijiji ad that stated someone was going to be walking here from Edmonton and was looking for a ride. (It's been -25 all week or colder... are you crazy?) People come here for so many different reasons and from all over the world. Yesterday I met a man we will call Chris as I have no idea what his name is. He is from Louisiana and if I didn't know that as soon as he started talking I had no doubt!
Chris came here to work as an ultrasound tech. He lived in Sask-at-chew-an (his pronunciation) for 4 years prior to coming here so assured me he is used to the cold. He was very entertaining as he shared his life growing up playing football against Brad Pitt and in college dating Cheryl Crow. In his southern drawl he talked of being on the set of the movie "White House Down" as it was filmed 5 miles from his house and got a free lunch for being and extra. His larger than life persona was refreshing and did his job quickly, efficiently and had us out of the office quickly.
As we walked out of the River City Centre I felt like I had met an amazing story teller. There are so many different people in Fort McMurray and all with very interesting stories to tell... if given the opportunity.
As we prepare for the Christmas season, let's not forget the many people in our communities that have no family around to celebrate. I challenge you to step out of your comfort zone, and invite someone in for a coffee, or meal and remember what Christmas is really about!
Feliz Navidad
Beth
