My Return from the Pause
Over the past year and a half, I’ve intentionally unplugged. I embarked on a solo trek along the Portuguese Camino, reconnected with my ancestral roots in Ireland, reunited with old film colleagues in the UK, left my ‘day job,’ and spent countless hours hiking the trails of Vancouver Island, reflecting on life.
This time of renewal has reimagined my path, bringing me back to filmmaking with a fresh perspective and a deep appreciation for preserving the wisdom of our Elders. My first film since returning was an absolute joy—rekindling my sense of purpose.
I hope you enjoy the short snippet featuring Christine, whose story is rich with insight and heart.
Every story holds a thread of wisdom, and some of the richest come from those who have walked this earth the longest. As a filmmaker, I have the deep privilege of capturing these voices—elders who have weathered hardships, found joy in unexpected places, and discovered remedies for life’s greatest challenges. Their stories are not just personal histories; they are gifts of resilience, insight, and perspective for the generations to come.
In my latest film, I captured the life story of Christine Doney, a 92-year-old farmer—a woman whose hands have shaped the land as much as the land has shaped her. Her reflections are a reminder of what endures: the value of hard work, the patience of seasons, and the quiet wisdom that comes from truly listening to nature. Through her words, we find echoes of the past that still hold meaning for our future.
I invite you to watch this short 2-min excerpt and reflect on the elders in your own life. What stories do they hold? What wisdom might be passed down before it’s too late? This work is more than filmmaking—it’s a way of honouring and preserving the voices that shaped us, ensuring they continue to guide the generations yet to come.
Christine Doney
Born on a dairy farm and guided by a lifelong spirit of curiosity and joy, Christine shares the wisdom she has gleaned over her 92 remarkable years. (2-min snippet from a longer film.)