WISH Scotland: Learning to Trust in an Uncertain World

In a world, and sector, that often feels defined by uncertainty, and reactivity, it is natural to try to stick to our comfort zones. This is despite knowing deep down that most of life's most meaningful journeys begin when we step beyond what is familiar and choose to trust the process, even when we cannot see where the path will lead. Perhaps this is what rewilding means for us as individuals and as a community: learning to embrace the unknown, reconnecting with our resilience, and allowing ourselves to bloom in ways we may never have thought possible.

This theme was documented beautifully at WISH Scotland's May event, where we had the privilege of hearing from two extraordinary speakers whose stories reminded us that courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to move forward despite it.

Our first speaker, Sarah Kennedy, shared her experience of caring for both parents through dementia and navigating life after loss. Through one of life's most challenging chapters, she spoke honestly about grief, resilience and finding purpose beyond adversity. Reflecting on her own experiences in her early adulthood and how she received support, she was able to use that to be the support for people facing adversity now.  Her journey illustrated that even when things feel dark, we have the ability to take small steps forward, revealing our purpose and strengths.

Our second speaker, Tetiana Lukianenko, shared her story of fleeing war in Ukraine and building a new life in Scotland. Forced to leave behind the familiar and begin again in an unfamiliar country, she demonstrated the courage required to take a leap of faith into the unknown. Her story showed how strength can emerge in the most difficult circumstances. By throwing herself in to helping others with translation, placements and sponsorship she has contributed to the Ukrainian population flourishing in their new home of Aberfeldy.

While their experiences were very different, both speakers highlighted a common theme: none of us walk these journeys alone even if sometimes in the darkest hours it can feel that way. Behind every leap of faith, every new beginning and every act of resilience, there are communities that uplift, encourage and empower us. Whether through family, friends, colleagues, mentors or professional networks such as WISH Scotland, support from others gives us the confidence to take those next steps when uncertainty feels overwhelming.

This is where the metaphor of 'planting flowers along the way' becomes so powerful. We may not always know how things will work out, but we can choose the impact we have on our world every day. Every act of kindness, every encouraging conversation, every opportunity we create for someone else, and every moment we spend supporting our communities is a flower planted. We may never see the impact these small actions have, but they create beauty, hope and inspiration for the people who cross our path.

As we continue to navigate an uncertain and reactive world, the challenge is not to seek certainty, but to trust in the resilience of ourselves and each other more deeply. Rewilding invites us to recognise that the uncertainty can be a place of opportunity and growth rather than fear.

To join our next WISH Scotland event or to find our more about our region, please visit our regional page.