Discovering the meaning behind the 'good stick'

Perhaps  the man I met on the bush road at Chapleau some 30 years ago who told me "Maybe some day you will find a good stick too", meant much more than I thought he did.

As I walked along the road, coming towards me was a man who I had often seen go by my house, but I did not know him. As he approached, he said, "Where is your good stick?", stopping to explain that he always carried a "good stick" with him. He moved it from hand to hand, he told me and it served to strengthen his arms and upper body.

 Perhaps  the man I met on the bush road at Chapleau some 30 years ago who told me "Maybe some day you will find a good stick too", meant much more than I thought he did.

 As he passed on by he added,  "Maybe you will also see the wolf. It's auburn. Don't be afraid. He won't hurt you." I never saw the man again, or the wolf.... (or so I thought)

I had written a story about finding the good stick some years ago, and even spoke about it at the 90th anniversary reunion of Chapleau High School in 2012. I hadn't thought about it much recently, until I received huge box from my lifelong friend Harry 'Butch' Pellow. Upon opening it. Butch had sent me a walking stick. UPDATE: Harry Pellow died on December 13, 2016

Butch and MJM circa 1947

But, it was the enclosed letter that made me fully realize the metaphor of the "good stick". Harry wrote that it was sent with best wishes "as you carry it". 

He added: "As our frailties become more evident, we need to be mindful of every step going forward -- be reminded of your friend many years ago who explained the "good stick theory."  I get the message my friend.

Butch and Brigitte Pellow 2015

By the way, the bush road was actually a logging road built originally by Edgar Pellow, Butch's uncle circa 1930.

Let me go back to my story about the good stick, and I hope I don't mangle metaphors too badly in so doing. "Shortly thereafter I came across a stick and picked it up. It wasn't as sturdy or straight as the one the man was carrying, but crooked as it was I had found my good stick. My good stick became my travelling companion helping me cross a beaver dam and walk along the edge of a pond. When I became tired I leaned on it and took a rest, and when I stumbled it helped me keep my balance, and aided me as I climbed a hill.

"My good stick was very powerful indeed, and long after I lost it I thought that if that old piece of wood from a dead tree could have been so much help to me as I wandered along, giving me confidence to surmount minor obstacles, maybe the man I met on the road meant much more with his comments than maybe I would find a good stick and even see the wolf that would not harm me some day."

For a guy like me who loves metaphor, it took me about 30 years to grasp the implied comparison between a piece of wood that was very helpful and powerful in helping me as I walked along life's road and my friends who have also been there with me and for me -- most particularly Harry 'Butch' Pellow. I have been most blessed.

Thanks Butch for being the "good stick" so often over the past 70 years or so.

I was so excited with my discovery that I was going to use it as a framework for a review of 2015 which was a truly amazing one for me, as my friends, aka "good sticks" made possible. 

Back David, Jim, MJ, Ed, Brian, Joel, Antoine Seated, Dennis, Mark. Ron

However, the Friday Morning Coffee Club, aka FMCC, was meeting and of course, I had to bring my good stick to our weekly session. It is just on three years now since FMCC was launched quite unintentionally.. 

I started having coffee at Starbucks in the newly opened, now closed Target store, was joined by Joel Vinge, then Jim Roberts, and the rest is history.If everyone shows, we now have 20 members. There is no agenda. We meet for fellowship, many laughs for an hour with all the "good sticks" who have become good friends.

We celebrate birthdays and other special occasions, and have played golf and had breakfasts at Rocky View Ranch.

Without mixing metaphors any further, let me leave you with a quote from Stephen Grellet as I head out carrying my good stick:  “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

PS  I am not even going to try and deal with the wolf metaphor now!!!

Ron McFarland hosts Christmas breakfast party for Friday Morning Coffee Club

Host Ron

Friday Morning Coffee Club held its second Christmas Party at the home of Ron and Judy McFarland where a delicious breakfast was served to those members who were able to attend.

Ron, as always, was a most gracious host, and a most sincere thank you to Ron and Judy for having us over to enjoy a hearty breakfast and a great time.

David, Ed, Antoine

 We enjoyed good fellowship, more than a few laughs, and time with friends on a Friday morning as the Christmas season got underway.

Jim relaxing

 Some members were unable to attend because of other commitments, including travel to warmer climes.

Joe listening carefully

Bill (centre) is sharing a story while Terry and Michael look on

Joel also attended but was official photographer so we didn't get photo of him so decided to use one from his recent appearance at College of the Rockies with Duffy where they attended a Christmas party.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL FROM FMCC

Shrove Tuesday pancake dinner introduces 'fashion ikons' of Christ Church in Cranbrook

The annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake dinner this year at Christ Church Anglican in Cranbrook, not only resulted in the usual great meal, but was also an appearance by the male "fashion ikons' of the parish.

Rev. Yme Woensdregt, the Incumbent, coined the fashion ikon comment after seeing the men who prepare and serve the pancake feast, attired in matching aprons for the occasion -- well almost, as Gerry Warner chose a different apron.

Bill Nightingale, who has been chairing the popular event for many years once again put together an excellent team of chefs aka fashion ikons, for the occasion to start the Lenten season. Congrats again Bill and also to Mark Spence-Vinge, your able assistant.

Although I have been helping at the pancake dinnerfor some years now, I have not been promoted above the rank of server of the excellent pancakes and sausage to a chef position.

In fact, when I tried to don an apron, it was quickly removed and I was pointed to my place behind the serving table.

Regular readers will notice from the photos that many of those involved are also members of the Friday Morning Coffee Club, aka FMCC, These guys get around!!!

Nonetheless, it was another very successful Shrove Tuesday event, and as the old saying goes "A good time was had by all."

Thanks to Joel Vinge for providing the photros.

Maybe one of these years I will be permitted to join the ranks of the fashion ikons, er chefs!

Friday Morning Coffee Club meets in new location with visit from The Sound Principle

Friday Morning Coffee Club, aka FMCC,  met for the first time in its new location at the White Spot, Triple O, with a special musical moment for Valentine's Day provided by 'The Sound Principle'.

'The Sound Principle', a very popular Cranbrook barber shop quartet, with FMCC founding member Joel Vinge as a member was making its annual rounds for Valentine's Day to raise funds for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. All funds raised go to the foundation.

It takes them two days to visit all those who sign up in Cranbrook and Kimberley  to have the quartet visit in person and present a rose to a loved one and sing two appropriate songs for the occasion.

 In fact, they even sing for the mother of Jim Roberts, another FMCC founding member, who lives in Oregon, Technology assists greatly!

They found time to visit White Spot Triple O, and present a rose and sing two songs, which were greeted by loud applause by the FMCC members, staff and customers. Members of 'The Sound Principle' are: lead, Gert DeGroot; bass, Rollie Cummins; bass, Michael Jones, and tenor, Joel Vinge.

Thanks so much.

FMCC had to move after two years when the Starbucks in Target closed as part of the store closing.

Thanks to the staff who made us feel so welcome at the new location.

Also, thanks to 'The Sound Principle' who bring moments of delight into the lives of so many people all year round, but especially on Valentine's Day.

They remind me of a quote attributed to Etienne de Grellet, a Quaker missionary:

I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being; let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.

Etienne de Grellet
Quaker Missionary

Friday Morning Coffee Club meets at The Ranch for gourmet breakfast prepared by Chef Justin

Jim, Chef Justin, Mark

The Friday Morning Coffee Club, aka FMCC, enjoyed a gourmet breakfast at The Ranch prepared by Chef Justin Cleland on a beautiful Winter day.

Chef Justin was ably assisted by Jim Roberts (his uncle), and Mark Spence-Vinge in preparing the meal enjoyed immensely by FMCC who were on hand to enjoy their second visit to The Ranch. Thanks Jim.

Although on this visit, we ate around the big table in the ranch house, it seems to me there is something about the mountain air that really contributes to the fellowship, friendship and laughter that abounds at all FMCC meets, but maybe a bit more at the ranch!

A special highlight was the presentation of a birthday cake and a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday" to Brian Passy.

As the old saying goes "... and a great time was had by all!"

Jim with cake for Brian

A special thanks to Chef Justin, who spent countless hours planning and preparing the meal featuring Eggs Benedict. We also wish Justin all the best as he launches his career in music.

And before anyone asks, no, I did not try bronc busting on this trip.

It has also amazed me the number of people who have stopped me on my walkabouts in the past week and asked "What are you guys going to do now?" or "Have you found a new place yet?"

Of course, they are referring to the loss of our Friday morning home for almost two years at the Starbucks in the Cranbrook Target store. Starbucks is closed now and the store will be  soon.

Thanks for asking

As I write, no we haven't but if anyone would like to offer suggestions, please email me at mj.morris@live,ca.

 For the moment we will meet at "temporary" locations.

Joel Vinge sent more pics and added to the story. Thanks Joel.

Ordinarily I would have waited but I wanted to post before leaving for Florida on a recruiting mission for  The Ranch and FMCC,  More later on that11

 I am updating from Calgary before boarding my flight. My new mini computer is great -- next challenge my phone!!!

Joel  wrote: "Another excellent Breakfast with two specialty Chef’s (Jim and Justin) with their Eggs Benedict Breakfast!  Also Michael & Terry in deep conversation.  

"Michael takes a picture with Gordon looking on.Another special FMCC event!Joel"

Friday Morning Coffee Club bids fond farewell to 'team members' at Cranbrook Target store as Starbucks closes

FMCC final meeting at Target Starbucks in Cranbrook

The Friday Morning Coffee Club, aka FMCC, held its last meeting at the Starbucks in the Cranbrook Target store today (January 23/15) bidding a fond farewell to the "team members" for their friendly service and hospitality over the almost two years we have been meeting there.

FMCC is a minor casualty of course,compared to the situation facing the more than 100 "team members" at the Cranbrook store as Target closes its 133 stores in Canada, but we really did not want to  move.

In fact, upon arrival today, we did not know that Starbucks was closing so soon, until executive team members, always professional, came and gave us the news, thanking us for our weekly visits.

Merry Christmas to Target guests

FMCC was founded at Target Starbucks shortly after the store opened. I started having coffee there simply to show support for former students from College of the Rockies, who had become part of the new venture.

Joel Vinge joined me within a week, followed by Jim Roberts: the word spread and we have had up to 15 members show up for coffee, and we are all from different walks of life, and different parts of the country and one from the United States.

As FMCC membership grew, we chatted about the possibility of moving to a larger place, but decided to stay with our friends at Target.

We have celebrated birthdays, Halloween (and my birthday), and during the holiday season delivered a rousing rendition of "We wish you a Merry Christmas' to Target guests -- assisted by store team members.

Our weekly get togethers have led to new friendships and also resulted in Breakfast at the Ranch hosted by Jim Roberts and Mark Spence-Vinge, with Chef Justin Cleland, and a Christmas party at the home of Ron McFarland.

Next week, we will hold another Breakfast at the Ranch for a special meal prepared by Chef Justin, assisted by Jim and Mark.

FMCC plans to continue. A search committee has been formed and is scouting suitable locations for the group.

However, it won't be the same. Without getting into the pros and cons of Target's decision to pack up and leave Canada, they have an excellent team at their Cranbrook store, and on a very personal basis. I will miss them.

Many have become personal friends, and I wish them all the best. You gave FMCC a great home, and quite frankly deserved better. Thank you.

Friday Morning Coffee Club Wishes You a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Friday Morning Coffee Club, aka FMCC, brought holiday greetings to shoppers and team members at the Target store in Cranbrook with a rousing rendition of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas". It was part of the regular weekly gathering at the Starbucks location in the store. Trina (Starbucks) and Leona (Target) joined the group.

From FMCC were MJM, Joel Vinge, Gerry Warner, Yme Woensdregt, Ron McFarland and Bill Nightingale.

Jim Roberts was travelling but in touch by phone and Mark Spence-Vinge was late arriving as he was assisting packing boxes for Christmas at the Salvation Army.

FMCC extends thanks to Trina (Starbucks) and Leona (Target) as well as store team leader Mike for their assistance with the production.

Antoine, Ron

Although FMCC has been meeting at the Starbucks in Target for a year and a half now, two very special occasions have taken place "off campus"

Brian, Antoine, Bill, Ron

Recently, an awesome Christmas party was held at the home of Ron McFarland which was really enjoyed by all. While FMCC, was at Ron's place for their party, the ladies went out for dinner.

Justin and  Jim at Ron's

Thanks so much Ron for your hospitality and special thanks to Judy!

Back Joel, Mj, Brian, Ron, Mark, Jim, seated Gordon and Bill

The other occasion was Breakfast at the Ranch, organized by Jim Roberts and Mark Spence-Vinge, with special assistance provided by Justin Cleland.

Peter, Yme, Gordon at Ron's

Thanks Jim, Mark and Justin for making it happen. A very special thanks to Joel Vinge for being our "official" photographer.

Back Jim, Bill Joel. Seated Antoine, Gordon, Peter, MJ, Ron, Bob, Mark

FMCC has also celebrated birthdays and sends thanks to Target Starbucks for helping make these occasions special.

MJ and Mark at Ron's

 "We wish you a Merry Christmas, best wishes for the holiday season and a Happy New Year!"

Winston and MJ

FRIDAY MORNING COFFEE CLUB JUST KEEPS ON CELEBRATING

Front Antoine, Gordon, Peter, MJM, Ron, Mark. Back Jim, Bill, Joel, Bob

Friday Morning Coffee Club aka FMCC, just keeps on celebrating with its Halloween party complete with treats back at its usual location at the Starbucks in the Cranbrook Target store.

We had a pretty full house last Friday as a couple of our regulars were back from travels.

A couple of weeks ago it was Breakfast at the Ranch organized by Jim Roberts and Mark Spence-Vinge. Another ranch visit with Jim is in the works before Winter really sets in, but if it has, so what, FMCC members are a hardy group.

In fact, I wouldn't doubt it if some could still cross country ski to the ranch in the Fort Steele area. LOL!

Thanks to Trina at Starbucks for preparing the tray of treats complete with pumpkin loaf and muffins. Awesome.

Thanks also to Joel Vinge for the group photo.

And finally, thanks guys for the rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday". Much appreciated.

As you were singing, it struck me that almost all of you, still sing, or have sung in choirs and groups bringing great enjoyment into peoples' lives here in Cranbrook and beyond.

As an aside, I had a very brief career in the Junior Choir at St John's Anglican Church in Chapleau where my Mom was choir director. When my voice started to change, one night as Mom was washing the supper dishes, I asked her if I should join the Senior Choir, She said, "Sing the scales", so I started, "Do, re, me...." and she interjected, "No," Thus ended my singing career.
Here is link to Thanksgiving Breakfast on the Ranch http://michaeljmorrisreports.blogspot.ca/2014/10/fmcc-holds-thanksgiving-breakfast-on.html