From March 21-29, I spoke 13 times in 10 rural Saskatchewan communities as my thank you to readers for their loyalty to my column during the past 25 years.
A lot has changed since I made a similar tour 10 years ago.
Economic farm stress is even greater. Many towns struggle for their existence, and farmhouses are becoming fewer and farther apart.
People are coping with many types of loss. The aging rural population faces loss of friends, neighbours and family. Anxiety about the future of farming is growing. Cash flows are becoming tighter. Going to a funeral or a farm auction is becoming a regular event.
Read Also
Stock dogs show off herding skills at Ag in Motion
Stock dogs draw a crowd at Ag in Motion. Border collies and other herding breeds are well known for the work they do on the farm.
But I still see that caring and connection continues with rural people. As I met and talked with people of all ages, I came to the conclusion that the expression “quality is more important than quantity” applies to Saskatchewan. We may be a small province by population, but we are a province with a big heart.
I also noted an important difference between determination and stubbornness in rural Saskatchewan. Determination is the energy and conviction to keep working at something, even though you are not at all sure what will result. It involves having faith that whatever happens, you will, with the help of others and perhaps the help of the Greater Power, discover a way to deal with it.
Stubbornness comes in two forms. One is an unwillingness to make any changes in your life or routines. Another is an unwillingness to open your eyes and learn from others around you.
The difference in the meaning of these two words may appear slight. But the effects of these differences can be major in our lives.
Stubbornness usually leads to inaction. Stubbornness is often mislabelled. What is often called stubbornness in families and relationships is determination, but of the wrong type. If you become determined that you have all the answers, and determined that you don’t need to listen or learn from others in life, you are not determined – you are stubborn.
I would like to thank the communities of Lloydminster, Marsden, Paradise Hill, Maidstone, Assiniboia, Mossbank, Gravelbourg, Saltcoats and Wakaw for having the determination to invite me. I spoke on many topics including loss and grief, coping with stress and healthy relationships.
I learned a lot on this trip and will share some stories in future columns.
Peter Griffiths is a mental health counsellor based in Prince Albert, Sask. His columns are intended as general advice only. His website is www3.sk.sympatico.ca/petecope.
