Page 20 - Restorative Journey: Indigenous Educational Wellness

Voice Perspective
Artist’s Narrative
We are reminded that our mind is a gift
from Shonkwaya’tihsonh, our Creator. It is a sacred place. A healthy mind is the first thing that is mentioned in the Great Law.
We all contribute to maintaining our healthy minds. We can start by doing small things, for example breathing deeply and methodically with gratitude. Our breath connects us to Shonkwaya‘tihsonh and
to every generation of our ancestors. Our breath reaffirms our interconnected and interdependent relationship with the trees and with all of Creation (Doxtater, 2016).
White Pine
A while ago I was talking to a young man. He said he was actively learning about traditions and participating in ceremonies. He said, “I’ve asked a lot of people this one question and so far, everybody I ask gives me a different answer. Maybe you know.”
The question was “‘Do you know where that tree was planted?’”
He was referring to the White Pine that is a symbol of peace. It was uprooted, and all weapons of war were thrown into the pit to be carried away by an underground river. The tree was then replanted.
Elizabeth Doxtater
This was at the time of the ratification of the Kaianere’kó:wa, or Great Law
• Peace,healthymind,healthybody
• Powerharmonious,nonviolentunity
• Goodmindedness,alsocalled righteousness. Having a good mind, leading to justice fairness between people and nations, also includes compassion and love.
The location of the White Pine, which I once heard referred to as a “holy tree,” has been the topic of many discussions.
This young man went on to explain, while motioning with his hands, that he heard that it was “here”, and someone else said it was “there.” He asked, “Where do you think it is?”
I explained how I understand the teaching:
“The four roots of the tree go out to the four directions. Any person who is looking for the protection of that peace can follow those roots and find it under that tree. So, if each of us is supposed to carry the peace, where do you think it is?”
He looked a bit puzzled.
He thought for a few seconds.
He smiled.
He placed his hands over his heart. He said, “It’s right here!”
(Elizabeth Doxtater, 2016).
12 Commemoration • Education • Healing/Wellness