Greetings my fellow sleep deprived, caffeine induced procrastinators. My name is Francisco. Like San Francisco minus the “San”. I hope that helps. If not then I hope we can understand each other in other ways as I introduce myself to you. I was born in Mexico and moved to Vancouver when I was 2. I have 9 crazy beautiful siblings who make my life a living daydream. Just to make it clear, the “9” is not a typo. I have 4 sisters and 5 brothers, all from the same awesome parents. My siblings all have great personalities that have definitely shaped who I am. Some have wisdom like Yoda and give the best advice, others are goofy and some are just so wonderfully caring like Hagrid from the Harry Potter series.
If I were a character from X-men my superpower would probably be stealing people’s personalities as I love learning from unique individuals. I of course have my own personality and characteristics that have developed over the years. If I could speak for my family they would tell you I am the “crazy sassy adventurous one that doesn’t take no for an answer”. I don’t object.
I started traveling when I was 16 years old and would do volunteer work in countries like Guatemala and Mexico. From genuine smiles to kind gestures, I began noticing these little things I used to overlook and developed a greater appreciation for them. I knew my perspectives were changing and the world was gifting me with experiences that would alter my life in great ways. As I got into my 20s I landed a volunteer position in Bolivia to work at a daycare centre, which was also home to orphans. I would be lying if I told you it was all sunshine and rainbows; it wasn’t. That doesn’t mean the experience itself was negative but rather it was an experience that challenged me in personal ways and gave me a realization that embedded in each of us are talents that make themselves known when we step away from comfort and walk within vulnerability.
As life would have it, my traumas would add up and tackle my thoughts and emotions quite intensely. I worked and went to school to pass time. I didn’t feel present and found myself constantly drifting off into my blissful memories cultivated by traveling. I knew then that I wasn’t done with travel quite yet. As soon as I finished with school, I booked a ticket to Europe and planned to walk a 1000 km pilgrimage from France to the coast of Spain with no real hiking experience. After all, I was the “crazy sassy adventurous one that doesn’t take no for an answer”, remember! I had to stay true to my title. I was successful in my journey and made wonderful friendships along the way.
Many times on my walk, I was told I should pursue a career where I can listen to people and let them know people care about them. That idea stuck with me but I didn’t know what it looked like or how to make it a reality. I went to my siblings for advice and all they did was inform me that I just walked 1000 km alone in Europe, so I was pretty much capable of anything. This was my “lightbulb” moment. I told you they were wise like Yoda.
I did my research and came across information on a Community Mental Health and Addictions Worker Program provided by Stenberg College. This was it; my next adventure. I would soon become that clichéd student who over does it on caffeine, is a part time barista, will run after the bus to avoid being late for class and will probably always complain about being tired until graduation. But for now I can tell you that I am both proud and excited to be a part of the CMHAW cohort.
