Gratitude

To the First Peoples of this land,

With a full heart and deep respect, I want to say thank you.

Thank you for your strength, your teachings, your generosity, and your patience. Thank you for continuing to care for the land, for each other, and for all of us, even in the face of incredible injustice. Thank you for letting me walk beside you, learn from you, and serve your communities in the small ways that I can.

I grew up not knowing what I should have known. I was unaware of the truths of this country, unaware of the deep wounds caused by colonialism, residential schools, and the systems still working against you. Through relationships, through stories, and through the quiet power of your presence, I'm beginning to see more clearly as a non-indigenous person.

There was one day that shifted everything. I sat in a crowded coffee shop with a man and his wife who spoke with such fierce love for their Nation. It was the beginning of a journey I couldn’t have imagined, one filled with teachings, with ceremony, with community. Since that day, I’ve been honored to walk alongside their Nation and others. I’ve witnessed homes being built, roads laid, water returned, and futures reclaimed, not just through projects, but through purpose.

There’s a kind of fire I’ve seen in community members, an unwavering commitment to building a better life for the next generation. It’s humbling. It’s powerful. And it’s rooted in love.

The teachings you’ve shared through murals, tipi teachings, ceremonies, and everyday conversations, have changed how I see the world. One moment that will stay with me forever was standing in a Council Chamber as the Band Administrator proudly showed me artwork representing the Seven Grandfather Teachings. Each painting, each animal, each word was a lesson in how to live with Love, Respect, Honesty, Wisdom, Bravery, Humility and Truth. Since then I’ve carried those teachings with me. They line the hallway to my office so I never forget.

I still have much to learn. 

Thank you for letting me be part of your journey. Thank you for all that you are.

With deepest gratitude and love,
To all our relations.

Hiy Hiy.