Many of us prefer routine and comfort in our lives. Often we will choose activities, vacations or companions which are safe or known to us — within our comfort zone. Although many of us have an aversion to challenge or change, there can be huge social and emotional benefits from trying something new or making a change in your life.

Last week when I listened to an interview with Colin and Julie Angus from Expedition Canada, I marvelled at the challenge that they took on. They built their own rowboats capable of transporting their bikes and all their gear and used the boats and bikes to voyage 7,200 kilometres from the northern tip of Scotland to Aleppo, Syria. They traveled on old transportation routes including rivers, canals, ancient transportation corridors, oceans and coastlines. I can only imagine what they saw and the adrenaline that accompanied such an adventure.

Every summer, we also hear heartwarming stories as new athletes take on the Penticton Ironman — individuals from all walks of life from the ultra-athlete to the girl next door who just wanted to see if she could finish it. I’ve heard that Ironman is a life-changing opportunity. Ironman athletes share a bond that those who have not tested themselves to this level will ever understand.

Finding your own personal edge does not have to be as dramatic as a cross the world excursion or an athletic event of the year. Each of us has our own edge that we need to peak over now and again to ensure that we are growing and experiencing life. Weather it is trying a new fitness class or attending one of our speakers. How about a local hike or a cooking class? Recreation Penticton has a variety of programs available to both challenge and inspire.

This past summer, a group of “bucket list” ladies (all over the age of 60) challenged themselves to a hike at Cathedral Lakes. I’ve been told that they had an amazing experience. One participant told us that this trip was one of the highlights of her life and on Monday morning she was still walking around with an aura around her.

When is the last time that you did something for the first time? Opportunity is only a visit or a click away. Our fall guide still has some great programs and opportunities. Our new guide will be out in the Penticton Western News on Dec. 11. For more information, visit our website at www.penticton.ca/recreation, pick up our current brochure at the Community Centre or phone 250-490-2426.

Cheryl Wiebe is the recreation business supervisor with the City of Penticton.