A Journey of Self-Discovery on the Canadian Railroads
Growing up in a middle-class Canadian family, there was a longstanding tradition of sending young men out West to work on the railroad. This was not just a way for parents to give their sons some independence but also to toughen them up and broaden their horizons. My aunt, Irene, a vice president at Canadian National Railways, played a pivotal role in my journey when I reached out to her for a job. At 19, I was eager to gain some real-world experience, though I had no idea what lay ahead.
The Harsh Reality of Railroad Work
I chose to become a groundman, thinking it would be less physically demanding than being a lineman. However, upon arrival at Symington Yard in Winnipeg, I quickly discovered that there were no groundmen positions available. Instead, I was thrust into the role of a lineman, tasked with climbing telegraph poles and handling heavy equipment. The work was grueling, and the conditions were harsh. I was surrounded by men with tough pasts, some even with criminal records, making me feel out of place as a soft, middle-class kid.
Friendships and Struggles on the Prairie
Despite the challenges, I found camaraderie with a group of men who became my support system. Craig Walls, an aspiring writer, and Ernie, a witty troublemaker, stood out among them. We shared stories, struggles, and even a few laughs, which helped make the hard work bearable. The days were long, filled with climbing poles, dealing with swarms of black flies, and managing the physical toll of the job. Yet, amidst the struggles, I found a sense of accomplishment and pride in my work.
Lessons Learned and Personal Growth
The railroad experience was a crash course in resilience. I learned to embrace challenges, adapt to difficult conditions, and understand the value of hard work. The men I worked with taught me that life wasn’t always easy, but it was worth facing head-on. This period also shaped my aspirations, as I realized the importance of education and the need to define my own path in life.
The Bittersweet End of an Era
As my six-month stint came to an end, I reflected on the profound impact the experience had on me. It was tough, but it instilled in me a sense of self-reliance and determination. Saying goodbye to the crew was bittersweet, knowing that our paths would likely diverge forever. The memories of those days on the railroad stayed with me, reminding me of the growth and resilience I developed during that time.
Looking Ahead to a New Chapter
The experience on the railroad was transformative. It clarified my desire to pursue a life beyond the dust and dirt of the tracks. As I left the railroad behind, I carried with me the lessons learned and the resolve to create a future that mirrored the aspirations I had envisioned. The journey was far from easy, but it laid the foundation for who I was destined to become.
