Some of life's greatest lessons emerge from weathering unexpected storms. In this deeply reflective episode, I explore how the literal thunderstorms of Northern Ontario and the metaphorical storms of major life decisions have shaped my journey as a lodge owner.

The wilderness demands respect. I share the harrowing midnight experience that taught me this truth—slipping off a boat during a violent storm and nearly falling into churning waters, dangling precariously with just my torso on the dock as lightning illuminated the sky. This near-disaster transformed my approach to guest safety and weather management forever.

Weather in the North has its own personality. I recount the memorable expedition with a proper English grandmother who, facing a wall cloud and gale-force winds that turned our 24-foot boat sideways, calmly assessed the situation with unexpected profanity: "Steve, this storm is a fucking doozy." Her composure taught me how grace under pressure reveals true character.

But our most significant storms are often internal. I bare my soul about the overwhelming buyer's remorse after purchasing Chaudière Lodge—that moment sitting alone in my truck with an internal voice screaming "what have you done?" as I contemplated the enormous financial commitment I'd made. This emotional tempest eventually led to my greatest growth.

Perhaps most poignantly, I share how my biggest regret—failing to purchase a lakefront cottage that later increased 6.5 times in value—ultimately provided the courage needed to take the life-changing risk of buying the lodge. Sometimes our apparent failures are preparing us for greater opportunities ahead.

These stories remind us that life's storms, whether literal or metaphorical, don't just test us—they reveal our resilience and often guide us toward experiences we might otherwise miss. What storms have shaped you?