Inspiration is everywhere but sometimes we neglect to acknowledge it. Lately, I have been choosing to wake up everyday with the desire to learn something new and keep an open mind. I have also been reflecting on my journey thus far and wanted to share a more personal post.

On many occasions I have been asked why I chose to take Indigenous studies in school and why I am so interested in the Indigenous culture, being someone who is non-Indigenous. I would always tell people it is because of the simple way of life that Indigenous People’s live and the more collective and unified world-view that Indigenous People’s hold. Contrary to the western culture, which holds a more individualistic world-view, and frankly I believe that if anything is going to change in terms of greed, control, and power in our world, it would not happen if we kept living an individualistic lifestyle.

The truth is, I knew from the beginning of this journey that it was going to be a challenging one. I knew it would likely be challenging to find a job in an Indigenous organization because of the effort being put forth to decolonize the workplace. I knew it would be challenging when it came to my fear of overstepping boundaries. I used to feel like I was walking on eggshells, trying not to share my opinion too much, as a means of not offending anyone. It is good to always be mindful of your words, yet, I have learned that it is okay to share your opinion and ask questions, as long as it is done in a good and respectful way.

Recently, I was reminded of the importance of unity and it has brought me a lot more peace the last couple of weeks. When considering the history of the Indigenous culture, you will learn that everyone worked together, in peace and harmony. It took a village to raise a child and everyone in the community knew their role, but no one was ever alone in their efforts. This is the way that Indigenous communities have always lived. With European contact, this way of life was hindered by the injustice that ensued but they continued to practice their culture and traditions out of the sight of opposing forces. They do not need to be reminded of this way of life; it is in their spirits and natural being to act upon these traditions without hesitation and or contemplation. There have been certain barriers built by colonization that have kept many Indigenous People’s from living out their traditional values to their full potential. However, as they practice their traditional ways, their identities have and continue to be reclaimed, and they acknowledge where they are and what their role in the life-cycle wheel is.

There is continuous discussion about reconciliation and I guess the whole point of this post is really to say that, I believe, in order for reconciliation to truly take place, we all need to work together, in unity. This effort includes both Indigenous and non-Indigenous People’s. This is the way in which the walls of resentment, unforgiveness, and wrongful doing will be broken down to rectify this ongoing quandary. Reconciliation is not solely an outcome, but a lengthy process that will consist of the efforts of all whom cohabitate within this marvelous yet disarray nation of ours. The youth, Elders, Indigenous and non-Indigenous People’s of our country and the citizens of the world need to collaboratively strive towards the common goal to appease what and whom have been mistreated.

I am going to continue to be an advocate for the Indigenous culture and encourage others to speak up and share their knowledge and their opinions, with good and pure intentions.

If you want to learn more about the life-cycle wheel, follow this link: https://www.beststart.org/resources/hlthy_chld_dev/pdf/CBS_Final_K12A.pdf  (Beginning on Page. 13)