The inspiration that birthed this journey

Written By Jen Deraspe

I asked my friend, Wolastoqey elder, Mihku Paul, “How can I be a better ally to the Indigenous people?” She said, “Clean up the river.” Oh~ wow. Ok...

I thought about that for a while. I spent a lot of time in my canoe on the Presumpscot River that runs from Sebago lake to Casco Bay.

Here is the inspired action born out of that conversation.

I will paddle the watershed for Sebago Lake and the Presumpscot River to Casco Bay in 8 days. I will do everything I can to bring awareness to this watershed by capturing its essence through photo, video and what words may speak to that. I will share these sights and insights for anyone to follow each day.

The intention is to bring awareness and consciousness to the water that supports life.

I launch May 5, in Bethel, Maine at the headwaters of the Crooked River which flows into Sebago Lake. Along the way, I will connect with organizations and leaders near the waterway to learn and to share what they are up to in regards to watershed conservation and preservation. I will share my experience every day (that I have cell reception!) here: https://www.spiralsofwellbeing.com/paddlewithapurpose

I will find my way to the ocean by May 13 to the celebration of the watershed.

In addition to increasing awareness to the significance of healthy watersheds, with community support, together we will raise over $5000 to support the mission and vision of Friends of the Presumpscot River and Friends of Casco Bay.

Here are my talking points and visits along the journey:

Sebago Clean Waters

Trout Unlimited

Trout Unlimited - Sebago Chapter

Presumpscot Regional Land Trust

Friends of the Presumpscot River

Falmouth Land Trust

Friends of Casco Bay

I am nervously excited for the journey and think about it a lot every day. I am training and preparing in all ways possible. May this journey support all efforts in being better stewards for the waterways, habitat and critters dependent upon it, including humans.

photo above: take out location and where the water celebration will be held in Falmouth!

Photo below near where the ocean meets the river

Jen Deraspe

Supporting your journey to self~understanding and healing through mindfulness, meditation, yoga, nature and The Work of Byron Katie. 

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