Monday evening was one of those times that one remembers forever. There are 6 people walking from Cochrane to Ottawa. They are First Nation’s members who have timed their walk to arrive in Ottawa the last weekend in May when the Truth and Reconciliation Commission draws to a close. There were walking through Bracebridge on Monday and some of us were blessed to have a pot luck dinner with them and five homes were able to billet them overnight. We heard a bit of their story, enjoyed their presence among us, and were left humbled by their dedication and perseverance.
Monday night we sat in the spacious living room of one of the host families. After sharing an abundant meal we were reminded of the scarring impact of the Residential School system. As Patrick, the elder of the group, explained, as a child he was taken from his home and family every August and returned there in June. Now as an adult he feels remorse for the way he raised his own children having had such little experience of family life and parental supervision as a child he did not know how to parent. He spoke with firm voice and talked about honour and respect. It was very moving.
Tuesday morning, just before the walkers set out, they invited us to join them in their smudging ceremony. Each morning, before they begin the day’s walk, they perform this ritual to ground and purify themselves for the day ahead. It is a powerful reminder for them of what they are doing and why. It was a privilege to be part of the circle. The smoking sage, carried in a small iron pan by one of the young men, was offered to each of us so we could scoop the smoke with our hands and direct it over our face and bodies. Then a prayer was offered for their journey.
I don’t want to be overly dramatic, but sometimes one day can shift your whole perspective and understanding. Monday did that for me. I am not sure the walkers will remember us, we are one church overnight in a series of many, but I will remember them, their presence, their determination, their story, and their desire to heal a history that has dragged them down for decades. They are walking for truth and reconciliation. They brought truth to me and I hope that they felt some moments of healing and reconciliation in their short time here.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us Nancy.
You will never forget hearing their stories and participating in their spiritual ceremony. They may not remember the name of the church or the community’s name, but they will remember a visit with folks who listened respectfully and gave them a home when they needed it.