August Letter From the Founder: Roads
The sun is out and summer is in full swing, with sunny days that seem like they will never end. Over here at Guide Collective, we are taking it easy this month, recharging our batteries before the fall arrives and some of us are able to return to work.
August marks the one year anniversary of our first issue, which featured the theme “Bread.” Since then, GC has grown into itself, as we’ve added new activities like the Book Club, and GC Presents slideshows. Some of our initial members have gone their own way, but some fantastic new friends have jumped on board. I am so very proud of everyone that took a chance on this project and continues to keep the momentum going.
Our meetings continue to be a weekly highlight where we organize but also discuss bigger challenges and issues that face our industry. More than anything, for me at least, it is my hour each week to see the shining faces of my colleagues and check in with them. We have all taught each other and gained new skills. This hasn’t been an easy year, but at least we are all in it together.
This month’s theme, “Roads,” is a fitting way to mark our anniversary. Eighteen months ago, I was pretty sure about the road I was on, smooth sailing as far as the horizon. What I couldn’t see were the many forks up ahead, and so many choices that led different directions. Some guiding colleagues have chosen a road that leads away from tourism, and I cannot fault them for that. It is going to be a long while before it’s a prosperous profession again, if ever. But those that have chosen to keep going have shown so much courage and passion for their profession.
Where does this new road ahead lead? Chi lo sa? Who knows? All we can do is put one foot in front of the other, and when we find a fork, do our best to take the path that suits us best. In my experience, it’s less about the direction than it is about the company. Thank you to my GC family—Trish, Lisa, Anna, Nina, Roberto, Julian, Liz, Jorge, Fran, Juliet, Ben, Andrew, Reid, Helen, Susan, Charlie, Susanna, Åsa, Jesse— for taking a risk and walking alongside me.
This month we will have contributions from our guides to show you the roads around them and how roads are a part of who we are. Some of us are actually preparing to get back on the road after a very long hiatus. It is both exhilarating and a little intimidating.
Book Club is off this month, as is GC Presents, but we will be returning in the fall.
We wish you all a very happy summer, and continue to pray for an end to the pandemic so that we may meet you on the road, in real life.
Andiamo,
Sarah