In 2013 and 2014, I was lucky enough to work as a tour guide at the Grand Canyon South Rim.
I owe a lot to Dave & Dora Thayer, who took a chance on me (I had no guiding experience) when they brought me on to work for their company.
You see, those two seasons were among the most fulfilling times of my life. I went from floundering through jobs that I could not stand to getting paid to show people around the Grand Canyon — which is the best damn job in the world.
Of course, life threw my curve balls and I had to make hard life choices, which took me away from spending my days at the Canyon. But I’ve always looked back on those days as some of my greatest. I helped show many, many people why the Grand Canyon is so important, and why it needs to be appreciated, why it’s so much more than just a big hole in the ground.
And I never thought I’d get the opportunity to do it again, but as it turns out, starting in April I will be giving at least a couple tours a month at my old company, Canyon Dave Tours.
If you haven’t noticed, I have a passion for nature education and I am beyond stoked to get another opportunity to do it at a World Wonder.
It’s a big reminder to me that the Universe works in mysterious ways, never say never, and don’t give up on your dreams.
My friends, I know you all have your own dreams, and I hope you’re still chasing them.
It takes patience, it takes hard work, often a little luck — and usually navigating a path your weren’t expecting — but it’s worth pursuing.
No pressure though.
-Jake
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Awesome photo and narrative!