Journey

When this post is published, I will be in Los Angeles, having driven 800km South from Prince George and having caught a flight from Vancouver. One of many stops that I will be making over the course of this month. From the moderate chill of middle BC to the balmy sunshine of Southern California, before heading back to work up North to travel across frigid Yukon, to reach some of the most remote communities in Canada.

Boy, what a large carbon footprint I carry. I suspect no one, from the gaudiest campaigner to the most ardent activist, will quit travel entirely until we are forced by the climate itself to confine ourselves to little squares on the global grid. For now, no carbon emissions more egregious than any other, from the ones we produce directly to the ones we wear or consume. All the more important to recognize since we are having quite the ‘winter’. Though Prince George has had a couple of weeks at or below the -30 range, it has also been much warmer than usual. Not to localize large climate patterns, of course, only to point out the observable results of their compounding impacts. It is no longer strange seeing headlines about wildfires and drought as early as February.

And I am a contributor.

I share that as a grim caveat to a fond feeling I am reminded of on a sporadic basis. As a young adult attending post-secondary, I used to dream of living a life where I get to travel regularly. Not engage in tourism. Rather go from place to place as a learner and appreciator of the differences that define us and the similarities they disguise. I did not care where – you can find plenty that is foreign in familiar surroundings left unexplored – but I did not want to remain unmoved.

For the past seven years, this has been my reality. Through my work and leisure, I have explored this vast country and taken a step in a few more. That I get to live out the ‘dream’ in modest measures is no small joy. And if you had told me that it could be a part of my labor? A fortunate circumstance and opportunity that I cannot take for granted.

On this journey, I have often revisited 2012’s Journey. The soundtrack, anyway. One needs music on long drives, ferries, and plane rides. I have never played the game but do have it on the list to experience if I ever get into gaming. The reviews are stellar, and if the soundtrack and descriptions are anything to go by, it is a must-play.

The entire score is sublime. If I had to pick a favorite track, Apotheosis would be it. Its unique orchestral interpretations at galas are also worth a listen.

Austin Wintory, the composer, has shared the original album and revisited version with text commentary, revealing insights to the notes’ connection to the game as well as the instruments that shaped them. Put on your headphones and settle in – it is a testimonial to the art found in video games that is so often dismissed.

I look forward to the apotheosis of my own journey. My only aim at this juncture: relishing the littler summits stumbled upon the way there.