User Story

By Budd Erickson

I grew out of one of Edmonton’s lush ravines, a quiet place. A place that cultivated my roots at my most absorbent phase of life. A place, much like the rest of Edmonton, that is sensitive to the changing seasons. A place where all can see the wild, dark greens of summer melt into the soft oranges and brilliant yellows of fall, a place where all know the omnipresence of the angelic whites of winter. Every living organism born of Edmonton is endowed with a connection to this natural cycle, an element of life that other cities neglect for their efficiency of space. Everyone who grows here is drawn to the plentiful and carefully maintained parks, in every form of their unending transfigurations. There is no place in Edmonton that is without a nearby emerald field of tranquility for one to nurture their spirit. Other vegetation boast of the efficiency of their densely populated cities, riddled with tall buildings, small lots and not a patch of “purposeless” plant life. But Edmontonians know better.

Growing taller, I required an increase in the richness of nutrients. So I found another place to settle, a higher place with a better view. This place is called Concordia University College of Edmonton - a small garden with experienced gardeners. Here, they give special attention to every one of their members. This is not a formal place of learning; this is a personal place of mentorship. They made me feel part of their community, not a subject of it. Wondering about the nature of my own existence, I absorbed their philosophy courses without impediment. As my friendly neighbours told me, at Concordia, they treat you like a philosopher, a scientist, a mathematician, and a musician, rather than just a student. In the end, Concordia allowed me to realize the fullness of my potential bloom.

Another place of growing interest is the Muttart Conservatory. This place is abundant with a myriad of multicoloured vegetative life from around the world. A place that allows one to experience the wondrous variety of all rooted organisms that nature has to offer.

Edmonton is not without its culture either. A place known as the Jubilee Auditorium puts on plays and shows year round. All my life I’ve been dabbling in the arts – painting and drawing and so on. Edmonton has always allowed me to feel connected to the local art community. Something known as the Gallery Walk happens twice a year around the downtown area (124 Street) and there are about seven galleries within walking distance. Whyte Avenue also has a yearly Art Walk that helps to promote the local arts. Whyte Ave. itself is also rich with culture. Locally owned and unique stores have sprouted up all around, and all are within walking distance. Whyte Ave is also the radiant heart of the illuminated nightlife in Edmonton, with a plethora of clubs and bars that sustain all of our nocturnal inhabitants.

Edmonton is often derided for its long winter months, but on the contrary, Edmonton has learned to flourish under the spell of whiteness and so have many of its residents. Our long winters allow for people to learn to cross-country ski, downhill ski, snowboard, snowshoe, and so on. Children love the snow; they build snowmen and snow forts, engage in epic (but harmless) battles of snowballs and snow castles. The winters do not force people into their homes to hide from the chilly winds, as most believe. The winters are an opportunity for unique activities that much of the world will never know.