Sacred connection

Native American Indians have always had a deep connection to the land because it is our mother, she is what provides us the nourishment to live here.  This respect lives deep within all natives, the connection is there even if it doesn't appear to us.  It is silent and has no words, it is all action.  When we flock to pow wows across the land, we do it to be with the drums, people, and the land.  When we sing, it is our appreciation for the gifts that we are given in life and the blessings we've received.  It is our voices caressing every blade of grass and every leaf and tree around us that connects.  When we dance, our connection to the land is rythmic and it expresses our gratitude for this life we live.  There are not much words to explain what it means to natives and their connection to the land, it is something that is felt.  We value all things because all things are alive.  If we take from the land, an offering of tobacco and a prayer is given before we take anything.  It is our way of showing gratitude.  Even though today we are re-teaching ourselves the ways of the past, the teachings are inate and we understand the teachings.  No one has to tell us it is right, we know.  It is the sacred connection that is opened with the Creator and no one ever has to tell you when that happens, you will know.  It is not written in a book somewhere of how you should feel.  The spirit that lives inside of us knows all things and when we are fully aware of who we are, then the connection to everything comes alive.  It is the sacred gift of life promised by the Creator.

Grass dancers at Whitesand pow wow 2010

~Miigwetch

Changing Lives

My family and I recently had the chance to travel up North to a small community of Sandy Lake where we would be participating in the first ever pow wow.  My sons being drummers were honoured, my husband who was a speaker was thrilled and myself as a dancer was touched by the people.  We were treated well for our three day stay and the people were so kind.  The children were so fascinated with us and asked questions as much as their minds could muster.  Young teens were inquisite and eager to hear more stories of our lives as they visited with us.  Suffice to say, there were even people who did not want us to leave.  To me, that said a lot.  It said that we were a breath of fresh air for some of them who courageously showed their spirit.  This is what life is all about, giving what the Creator has given you to others. It really is a gift.  Along with us, nearly a dozen others travelled to this gathering as well to join in the festivities and the workshops.  In short, we made a lasting impact on the community who I am sure will be thrilled to have another pow wow next year.  Despite the bug bites, it was such an experience that will stay with me forever.

First Nations in schools

Our schools in our community have been gracious to allow First Nations people and culture into their school, which is amazing. First Nation children are a growing number in the urban schools in our city and when we have organizers and community workers who bring culture into schools, it's fantastic. The programs starting happening around ten years ago, first with one school and now over seven or eight schools have regular gatherings every year. So I'm proud to see this happening as a First Nation person, surely something like this is well received by all who attend and it's beautiful. Children get to learn about Aboriginal culture and dance, the meaning behind the regalia and the purpose of each dance. I think more schools should have this included, especially if they include First Nation children in their school.