Challenge Paddle Field Journal 2026: Jessica Clift

Each day was so special, but if I had to pick a favorite, I would pick the final day of the Challenge Paddle ending with the Celebration on Guemes Island. As we paddled through the San Juan Islands, surrounded by calm water, forested shorelines, and eagles soaring overhead, I felt something I hadn't experienced in a long time—peace.

After losing my dad last year, I came to this journey searching for healing, and I found it, surrounded by community and culture. This experience reminded me that I don't have to navigate grief alone; our teachings, our language, and our connections to one another are powerful medicine.

I will carry that sense of belonging, resilience, and renewed cultural identity with me long after the journey ends. I now look for my dad, Jack, wherever I go.  This time he showed up as an island in the San Juans ❤️ I hope to make it to Jack Island one day, by canoe. 

Thank you CSYC for creating opportunities like this. 

náxʷɬqʷulʼas (Thank you in Cowlitz),

Jessica Clift | Cowlitz

Elder in Training 😉