If surviving through a winter at November Project means you’re in it for the long haul, then 4 winters is the most longerest haul. Today’s blog comes from someone who has been around since the early days. She is Janna, and here’s her memoir.
November Project Boston August 2016
4:45am: I’m awake before my alarm goes off, unusually excited to be up this early. I reflect that dressing for a sultry Boston workout of +30 degrees (C) is far simpler than dressing for -30 in Edmonton. I joined November Project Canada in 2013 on a beautiful September morning. Three years later I am now in Boston for a two-week education course and am making my way to Harvard Stadium for my first encounter with the original November Project tribe. I meet up with the 5:30am group and begin climbing. The group in Boston is unique but also familiar: the welcome and hugs, the warm support and encouragement, the challenge of stadium stairs. The leaders are loud—pushing us further and faster. After a few sections the euphoria begins to fade, breathing becomes more difficult and I think again as I climb: Why am I doing this? Why am I motivated to consistently join a group of people early in the morning in all kinds of weather, to endure what I know will be a difficult physical experience?
The Long Haul
“This will be a long haul” my mom would warn us as our family piled into the car for one of our long road trips. In other words–don’t complain, don’t say “I’m bored”, settle in and get along.
I still hear her voice– for many parts of life are a “long haul”. The seasons of living include long, cold winters and drizzly springs, sultry mornings with irritating insects, muddy and slippery trails, steep climbs and quick descents–with so many circumstances out of our control.
When I joined November Project Canada for that very first work out I was motivated by the promise of a group that planned to meet outside all winter no matter what the weather. The first morning was tough but even though I could barely move for a couple of days there was no turning back. Here was an adventure with no “ending date”. I was in it for the “long haul” making a commitment that might be called a #verbalforlife.
Fast forward now to spring 2017— we have made it through our 4th winter as November Project Canada and I still often think of the first very cold -40 morning where almost 40 people showed up. I knew then this crazy group was going to last. I love being surrounded by those with an already high level of fitness and by those who come to support and participate even when injured or tired. There are so many diverse stories, ages (most of my family has shown up at least once), interests and abilities. It’s ok to be slow! I am inspired by those who face unbelievable life-challenges and share their strength and determination with us. This truly is a group for everyone.
Training for Life
But is my main motivation really about the work out? What am I training for?
In my job of arts education, I experience the long haul every day. It takes years of practice to master an instrument. Developing qualities of patience, endurance and perseverance is essential. I have the privilege of working with students for many years watching them grow in independence and confidence—training for life. I want them to know that there is great value in sticking with something for a long time.
Regularly attending November Project has affected many areas of my life. Every time I am running to catch a shuttle/bus/train/plane I’m thankful for NP. I am often the designated driver for early airport drop-offs. (She’s used to getting up early). Late for a meeting and need to climb a long flight of stairs? No problem! How can I put into words these 3½ years of memories? They are years of hard work but also so much fun—sliding, splashing, endless high-five lines, cartwheels, snow angels and a thousand hugs. When you come to November Project you instantly become part of the growing memories and can soon join in with the “remember when….”
Community
But there is more… The “long haul” means the initial excitement may die down and emotions will inevitably ebb and flow but we have all learned that so many things are better when shared. Yes, the cold/hot days can be uncomfortable but are much more endurable with others. Enjoyment of a glorious sunrise and the beauty of our city is multiplied when the joy is shared with others. November Project shows us that strength of community is formed by laying aside your own interests and comfort to build for the greater good. Thank you Jen, Nadim and Andrew for consistently demonstrating your commitment to community. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an amazing group of people who choose to #justshowup.
Janna Olsen
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