What this man learned about people after embarking on a cross-Canada ‘listening tour’ this year

In 2025, 70-year-old retired social worker Paul Jenkinson embarked on a 23,000-kilometer cross-Canada listening tour from Truro, Nova Scotia to Abbotsford, British Columbia. Setting up in parks and public spaces with two chairs, a folding table, and a sandwich board reading 'You are not alone; I will listen,' Jenkinson offered free, non-judgmental listening to strangers. During his 8-month journey, he distributed $2,400 worth of Subway gift cards to those experiencing food insecurity and stayed with strangers who opened their homes to him. Memorable encounters included a grandmother spreading her husband's ashes with her grandson in Calgary and a young woman struggling with imposter syndrome. Jenkinson learned that avoiding 'I am' statements and asking people for their wisdom creates more meaningful connections than identity-based conversations. His initiative exceeded expectations, creating meaningful human exchanges across the country.