A letter to a friend and mentor

This time last year, I was still working at my corporate accounting job where I felt burnt out, frustrated, and, generally, sad. I had just found out that I failed my second try at the CPA board exam, and felt at a loss of what to do next. I think I was still feeling reflective when, in September of last year, I was chatting with Manny during one of our morning cups of coffee together, I told him that I've felt lucky to have come so far into the CPA program, despite so many challenges. Then I talked about the many people who've helped me get to that point. One of them was my friend and mentor who lead the Healing Lodge. Manny suggested that I write her a letter expressing how I've been feeling lately about my experience meeting her and volunteering for the Lodge. What follows is the letter I sent to her on September 18, 2024. I didn't know, at the time, that only a month later, she would come knocking with a job offer, rescuing me from my corporate disillusionment.

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Dear *****,

I hope this message finds you well. I've been reflecting on my time with the Lodge lately, and the times that I spend working with you and all the folks there. I just wanted to let you know you know that having met you in 2016 has been one of the most impactful relationships I have had with anyone in my entire life.

I learned so much about Indigenous culture through working with you. I appreciate you so much for including me in many of the rituals and ceremonies that we did in support of the Lodge. However, I also need to recognize that there were times when I was not at my best. Looking back, I think that I could have been more curious, and asked to learn more about your culture, background, language, and other things that make up the wonderful person that you are. For instance, I do remember that whenever you brought up the idea of doing a sweat, I would just stay quiet and not actively, and vocally express my gratitude to you for thinking of sharing this ceremony with a person like me, who is not of Indigenous background. There were also times when, I've recognized through reflection, that maybe I was not, at times, the best ally to you, or that I used an incorrect term to express myself, or I used small boxes for the rally donations instead of buckets as you had suggested. But I remember that you were always patient with me, bringing your own understanding and humour to the situation. Jeremy said the other day that I need to consider myself lucky for having had the privilege of working with you at the Lodge, because he sees how impactful it has been in my life since then. And I wholeheartedly agree.

This letter may seem like it's coming out of nowhere, but it's one that I've been wanting to send to you. I am immensely appreciative for everything that you've taught me throughout my time at the Lodge. It's still having an impact on me because I am now taking those teachings with me as I work closely with other organizations today. I hope to embody your example of someone who is always learning, growing, respectful, and applying a wicked sense of humour while I'm at it :-).

If there's ever anything that you need help with (either an accounting question, or what not), please never hesitate to reach out. I would also seriously like to hang out  sometime, whenever you are free. Wishing you good health and prosperity.

Love you,

Jose

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