We Never Walk Alone – Kallie Wood
I was humbled and honoured to be a voice in this real conversation on Courage and Inclusion with amazing women from across Saskatchewan. See Hear Love are always gracious hosts and they love to laugh, love life, love crucial conversations, and love Jesus! I am always elated to share teachings from our culture and it just so happens, these two topics are two of my favourite discussions and came at a time when it is so needed in this country.
Courage is one of our seven sacred teachings in the First Nation culture and it is represented by the Bear. To give this context, the ferociousness of a mother bear when one of her cubs is approached is the true definition of courage; “Mama Bear” protects her cubs against anything and everything. To have the mental and moral strength to overcome fears or changes that prevent us from living our true spirit as human beings is challenging, it’s not easy… it’s hard work… and we must rise to meet them with the same vigour and intensity as Mama Bear protecting her cubs. Living of the spirit and the heart is not easy… but Mama Bear shows us how to face any danger to achieve these goals. One of my favourite verses is Joshua 1:9, “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” I love this… we are affirmed that we never walk alone. If you listen and go where you are being led, you will step into your story with courage and confidence.
Inclusion is how I lead in everything I do. Equity, diversity and inclusion and ensuring that all voices around the table are heard, this is how we will heal humanity. Listen, learn and love one another. Voices around the world are speaking into this and we need to come together as one and heal the hearts and minds of our lands for the future of our children and grandchildren… to leave a legacy of healing and peace. I share the teachings I have received from our Elders of our medicine wheel. Our medicine wheel signifies health and healing – the four directions (north, south, east, west); the four seasons (spring, fall, winter, summer); the four cycles of life’s journey (birth, growth, maturity, death); the colours of humanity (red, black, white, and yellow); the four bodies of well-being (physical, mental, spiritual, emotional); and the four sacred medicines (tobacco, sage, sweetgrass, cedar). All exemplified in our medicine wheel, one whole circle; how we view the world where all things are connected. With respect to inclusion; regardless of race, colour, sex, creed or religious affinity, we are all connected (red, black, white and yellow). In the words of Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, Ambassador of Reconciliation Canada – “We are all One, Namwayut.”
Inclusivity takes action on everyone’s behalf, are you ready to do your part? Visit our website at www.convergingpathways.ca for social media sources, information and lots of great resources.
hiy hiy, thank you from your sister,
Kallie