EVOLUTION: WHEN A PARKING LOT GREW WINGS
by Kannan Gopal
“Change is the only constant in life.” – Heraclitus
What does evolution really mean? To me, it is transformation—shaping the present into a new form so positive, powerful, and plentiful, that the past looks like it belonged to someone else. My guru Mahatria often reminds us that human potential lies in continuous evolution - make sure that you leave something better than how you found it.
Transformation is more than change. Change can feel small and temporary. Transformation, however, is permanent and profound.
A butterfly does not return to being a caterpillar. The old form gives way to something entirely new, filled with beauty, colour, and freedom.
Over the last year in Cooksville, Mississauga, I have watched a powerful transformation unfold. A plain parking lot beside the GO Station has slowly blossomed into a lively community space—a place filled with innovation, inclusion, laughter, fun, connection, and most important wellness for the community.
From Above, To This Below
This land's transformation is a powerful story. It began as a simple space with small tents and temporary setups for events. Now, thanks to the tireless work of Heart Comonos, the hands-on support of local volunteers, our land development partners - owner TAS Impact and 8 80 Cities our collaborative partner, it has evolved into so much more:
- A portable for indoor gatherings / small events / workshops - Yoga, Meditation, Learning Art, Painting, Tailoring… the list goes on...
- An open square area for wellness, games, and celebrations - Learning Dance (like Zumba, Salsa, Bollywood) yoga, strength training, mindfulness, drums circle, body movement, bicycle giveaways … and much more happening every week.
- Cozy gazebos and green gardens pods cared for with love - you could volunteer to be a gardner and learn about plants and giving them care and/or just come, relax under the gazebos, and plenty more is planned to become part of this piece of land
- A colourful mural—imagined and designed by local artist, chosen by the people is coming up this fall. Look out on the far wall for colours to flow and images to come live.
- Net game areas - badminton, pickleball,...
- Library to borrow board games and books – to enjoy in this space
“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
Every time I walk by, I see more than a space. I see a story. A story written by neighbours, volunteers, and dreamers who believed in change. And this story is still being written.
As the saying goes, “Rome was not built in a day.” Neither was this space. Every smile, every act of kindness, every drop of support has helped bring it to life.
And now—it needs you.
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
This is not just a space. It’s a symbol of what happens when people care. Come, be part of this transformation. Let’s keep building a community that future generations will look back on with pride.
And just like the caterpillar that became a butterfly, this once grey parking lot has spread its wings—becoming something vibrant, colourful, and alive. With your support, it can keep flying higher.
Stay Tuned
The mural work is now ongoing …
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