As anyone who spends much time by the sea knows, the tides are a force unto themselves. The tide goes out and comes in, under the direction of universal forces. The great and small rhythms of life were here before we came and will be here after we leave.
The life of small communities waxes and wanes in similar ways.
The people of Harbourville, in the past decade, determinably gave so much of themselves to raise money to restore the dilapidated wharves and give new life to the Hall and its activities. This was an exhausting, demanding and often joyous and sometimes not so joyous endeavour. A community of strong minded people don't think with one mind or speak with one voice, but the reality is so much was accomplished and the community was the better for it.
Hundreds and hundreds of hours were volunteered, by so many.
Hall suppers, hall meetings, fashion shows, auctions, rummage sales, patio parties, children's plays, day camp, Santa's visits and so much more were evidence of the spirit of the place. A small monthly news letter, High Tidings, news in the local paper, even a website and of course the power of word of mouth, kept most informed of all the doings. A highlight was the High Tide Festival.
All this could not have been done without the support of the fishermen, the villagers, people of the surrounding communities, supporters of Harbourville from far and wide, the cottagers, local businesses, tourists, the local and provincial governments. This was a very big project for a very small place.
The money was raised, strong, new wharves were built and the hall was spiffed up. Many in the community seemed to need a chance to catch their breaths.
Potluck suppers, board meetings, The Christmas parties continued but many were weary from well doing.
As my daughters and their friends begin to swim in the waters of middle age, I and my friends cannot deny we have begun swimming in the new waters of older age.
It is so reassuring to know others, with new ideas and enthusiasm, have begun to chart the course. The Ladies of The Sewing Circle and their contemporaries laid a foundation that made all this possible and the members of the fishing, farming and business families who came before them gave life to Harbourville in its beginnings.
The High Tidings Festival returned this August. It was such a grand success. Fish box races, scallop shucking contest, pie contest, good food, a jewelry table, refurbished dunk tank, children's activities, fine entertainment were parts of the whole unique summer celebration.
The heart of Harbourville continues to beat.
Life is some fine here.
