Rev. Dr. Neil Elford on what it means to be a team

Mystery among Us

As consciousness dawns on me, the sound of rushing water heightens my senses. In the Valley of a Thousand Falls, morning quietly descends through the mist over the Robson River as the sunrise blesses the mountain peaks high above the valley. Our team of eight colleagues had hiked 10.5 kms the evening before and we were now stirring in our tents, intrigued by the surroundings that had been cloaked in darkness when we arrived.

For months we had talked about this backcountry hike to Berg Lake, 20 kms behind Mount Robson. Yes, we all knew each other as colleagues in Supportive Care Services at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, but how would hiking together go? Would we share a similar pace? How would the weight be distributed and could we hold in common a respect for the majesty of the backcountry? Only one of us had ever hiked into the backcountry. The rest were traveling on faith.

Over this past year we have been reflecting on our experiences of team: what is it that draws us together in such a powerful way? One of the Pastoral Care & Counseling staff noted, “You were all talking about this trip, so excited and filled with energy, and didn’t stop talking about it for months after you were back.”

With our packs on we begin the ascent up the trail, climbing 500 metres in 5 kms. Some push on ahead to find a good campsite for the group. Others encourage each other up the relentless switchbacks. If not literally, then spiritually we carry each other’s burdens. Up past three thundering cataracts, and across the plain we work our way till we come to our place of rest on the shores of Berg Lake. With tents set up and supper cooked, we gather on the porch of the cook cabin, sipping tea and sharing stories. How can one put into words the feelings shared among the team? Nothing can express the beauty around us, but all of us feel the deep energy of Creation. Creator's presence feels particularly close.

Some would like to take their time on the long hike home. They choose to walk back part way the next morning. Another wants time alone at Toboggan Falls for rest and prayer. Four choose the 20 km round trip up to Snowbird Pass. Being a team is about finding a balance between being together and following one’s own heart. We all understand this, even without discussing it. Each is comfortable to walk with each.

Months later, the entire team is busy, the bustle and banter is enlivening. It is our 7th Annual “Beat the Blues” pancake breakfast, and the first of over 800 staff members of the hospital who will take part in this event begin to line up for pancakes, sausages and coffee. Some of our team flip pancakes, others pour juice. Music from a guitar, from voices and from the piano feed the soul. Teasing, prodding, encouraging and sharing in the common endeavours the team feels a spirit – a coming together – something that transcends and enlivens. At the end of the morning we all feel a sense of accomplishment, but more so a communion that joins us together. Is this what we mean when we talk about the Spirit of God moving among us?

What does it mean to be a team? Is it sharing common work experiences? I'm not sure how to describe what happens, what we feel. All I know is the on the shores of that lake far in the backcountry, with the breeze whispering in the fir trees and in the heat and bustle of serving up pancakes in the heart of a busy tertiary hospital - there is a Spirit alive among us. Thanks be to the Source of Life!

 

Submitted by Neil Elford, on behalf of the Supportive Care Services Team at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton.

 

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