August 2020
Intrepid members of Troupe 031,
It was just over one year ago, when we set out together on our voyage to the Wadden Sea islands.
If you are now reading this message, it means that you are alive. And if you are alive, it means that you have survived not only our shared epic adventure, but the intervening year as well.
Congratulations! Many perilous fates can befall an explorer in the span of a year. Especially this year. But rather than dwell on our collective misfortunes, as I write to you from the island Terschelling, I invite you to take some time today to reflect on your triumphs this year.
Have you mastered a new skill thanks to some unexpected downtime? Found a new passion, hobby, or favorite recipe? Gained a new friend or family member?
Perhaps you have campaigned for change in your community or supported others in a time of need. Have you modified your behavior, taken direct action, or even a lack of action to protect yourself and others from harm? Is there anything else that you consider a positive and important event this year? If so, I commend you!
Life is like a path through the dunes. There are ups and downs, and you never know what’s around the next corner. That’s why it’s so important to embrace and celebrate our victories, no matter how small, and always keep looking ahead, challenging ourselves, not to mention the rest of the world, to grow and improve.
As for myself, and co-captain Sebastian, despite a limited ability to organize group activities this summer, we have continued to practice our knots, as well as improving our sailing skills. Sebastian recently completed their first solo sailing journey, wherein they succesfully traversed from Monnickendam to Enkhuizen, single-handedly covering a distance of about 22 nautical miles. I am presently in the midst of a three-week apprenticeship as first mate on the sailing clipper Broedertrouw, and plan to begin formal training in navigation and sailing theory this winter. With luck, by next year we will be well qualified to handle ships similar in size and form to the one we all sailed together.
If you would like to respond to this message, to share your own adventures or just check in and say hello, we would gladly receive such communiques digitally at liliakai@gmail.com or by traditional post to: Pesthuislaan 84, 1054RM Amsterdam, Netherlands
In any case, here’s to you, Explorer and friend. Wherever you are, wherever you’re going, we hope you are happy and healthy, and remember to always continue exploring, learning, building community, and telling stories.
Semper Explorandum.
Rowena Lovelace