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Mama
Mama: Matriarch of Strength (1919–2016) “What I think is that a good life is one hero journey after another. Over and over again, you are called to the realm of adventure, you are called to new horizons. Each time, there is the same problem: do I dare? And then if you do dare, the dangers…
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Rose — Survivor with an Indomitable Spirit
“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” — Albert Camus In this chapter, I write about my sister Rose, the strongest person I know. She is dynamic, fearless, and deeply committed to protecting both people and the land. Her life has been marked by struggles. No…
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FREEING EGO
“Life will offer you with people and circumstances to reveal where you’re not free.” — Peter Crone“Nothing is either good or bad; it is thinking that makes it so.” — William Shakespeare In this chapter, I write about the lifelong work of freeing myself from ego. This is the voice that seeks validation. It clings…
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Tea four Two
In this chapter, I invite you to consider a simple yet meaningful gesture—inviting your best friend for a beverage. It could be tea, coffee, a glass of wine—whatever you both enjoy. The key is to set an intention and schedule it in advance, ensuring you are mindful and fully present. No TV. No phones. No…
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HUMAN SPIRIT
Human beings are inherently social. A sense of belonging is a basic psychological need. Whether through relationships, family, or work, our connections to others shape our identity and well-being. In Japanese culture, there is a concept called ikigai—meaning “reason for being.” It describes the intersection of purpose, passion, and fulfillment. I attended Holy Angels Indian…
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A Journey to Australia: 2008 Beauty, and the Shared Grief of Stolen Children
picture of my niece, elder Summer, Daniel, Nanton, Australia has always held a special place in my heart. Though it’s a 27-hour trip from Ottawa, I’ve been fortunate to walk on that beautiful land four times. Each visit has left a lasting impression. Yet, this particular journey was different. It was deeply personal, profoundly emotional,…
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Indigenous Healing A book review
Indigenous Healing, by Rupert Ross – A Review by Angelina I saw that a package had arrived on the counter. I touched the package and observed it was soft and about the size of a paperback. I thought that it contained a book. I was curious but, since it was not addressed to me, I set it…
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From Grief to Action: Fight Against Addiction
I dropped a tear in the ocean. The day it is found is the day I will stop missing you. – Unknown It shattered my world when you died. The world as I knew it changed forever in an instant. Tears cascaded down my face as I try to process that your beautiful spirit is…
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Embracing Nature: A Dene Perspective
my dad, Isidore Deranger with my older brother Freddy. Indigenous teachings hold significant value in today’s world, offering profound insights into sustainability, community, and respect for nature. These teachings emphasize a deep connection to the land. They foster a holistic understanding of life that can guide us in addressing contemporary challenges. By prioritizing these traditions,…
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The Flipside of Death is Life ( I wrote 10 years ago) These are my grandparents, married 60 years.
One evening, under the radiant full moon that has observed countless generations, I sat in quiet reflection. I felt both small and connected to the vastness of life. As I often do I imagined the Algonquins who roomed the traditional territory we live on. In this sacred moment, I began to contemplate profound questions: What…