The Mountain is Calling

For Monika, living in Squamish has been a dream come true. "The higher you get in the mountains, the more disconnected you are from an urban lifestyle," she says. "And if you feel called to it, it's worth exploring." However, she acknowledges that living in the mountains is not without its challenges. One of the most significant is the need for rescue skills and gear to navigate rough terrain safely.

"I've been on search and rescue missions, and it's a good reminder that we're not invincible," she says. "It's essential to learn and have the proper gear and skills. It's a humbling experience and a good reminder to respect the mountains." Despite the challenges, she feels that living in Squamish has enriched her life in countless ways, and she encourages others to consider moving to the mountains if they feel called to it.

Monika's introduction to the Squamish Search and Rescue team began when she reached out to them to offer her graphic design skills. After spending several months doing graphics and GPS-ing trails, she was invited to apply to become an active member. Monika applied with 120 other people and got in, and she has now been a part of the team for almost three years.

Being a part of Squamish Search and Rescue is more than just participating in rescues; it is a sense of community and purpose. Monika describes the members as generous, kind, and easy to work with, and they give so much of their personal time to help others. She believes that being a part of a reputable team like Squamish Search and Rescue gives her a sense of place and purpose, especially since she moved to the town only a few months before joining.

Becoming a member was not without its challenges, it was an organic process. She started by meeting with the Vice President and showing him some ideas for graphics, and then she slowly became ingratiated by contributing her skills and supporting the team in any way she could. She began attending calls to provide food and assistance, and eventually, the team became comfortable with her and invited her to apply.

She admits that it can be intimidating to learn all the skills and gear necessary for rescuing people. When she first joined the team, she felt anxious and useless, watching the experienced members effortlessly navigate the compound and prepare for calls. However, she was determined to learn, attending SAR training sessions several times a week and immersing herself in the team's culture.

She emphasizes the importance of being comfortable with being uncomfortable, admitting when she doesn't know something, and asking for help. She has also become comfortable with playing a background role on calls when she lacks the necessary skills, knowing that there's always something she can do to help.

Monika's love for challenging experiences extends beyond SAR. She's also a member of a program called Mountain Mentors, where she teaches women how to navigate the backcountry safely. In addition, she has been painting since she was a child and now loves painting nature in nature, using the colors around her as inspiration, and feeling a connection to the natural world.

For many outdoor enthusiasts, the mountains represent a place of adventure, beauty, and inspiration. But beyond the physical challenges and the breathtaking landscapes, what is it about the mountains that draws us in and keeps us coming back?

For Monika, the mountains have been a source of empowerment and confidence-building. By facing challenging situations and handling them well, she has learned how to be a leader. Moreover, through countless hours of practice and experience, she has learned to trust herself and her skills, allowing her to move through the mountains with ease.

But the benefits of the mountains go beyond personal growth and development. Being in nature and being a part of it is a way of connecting with something greater than oneself. "People gravitate towards being in the mountains because, on a philosophical or deeper level, I think we are connected to nature. People feel disconnected when they're away from nature, and I don't think that's where we thrive."

This sense of belonging and purpose that one can find in the mountains is a powerful motivator for many climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. "I love bringing friends out to share my passion for nature, and moving safely through the mountains. It's so satisfying to see someone feel joy. Promoting stewardship feels really good, and it’s one of my motivators,” she says. By sharing her knowledge and skills with others, she hopes to inspire a new generation of climbers and nature-lovers who will cherish and protect this precious environment.