by Lavertyt | Dec 8, 2020 | #MétisMindful
The old people tell me that as winter grew near, the Métis could most often be found working hides, sewing blankets and gathering resources to prepare for the long winter. Taashkinikayen (Sharing) with others was a vital part of living, and it was believed that the...
by Lavertyt | Dec 1, 2020 | #MétisMindful
La fors (strength) has always been celebrated in Métis culture because it is necessary to adapt and respond to life’s ever changing circumstances. Healthy competition, hard work, and persistence help to build resilience against difficult times both in our lives...
by Lavertyt | Nov 24, 2020 | #MétisMindful
The coming November moon is known as ihkopiwipisim or Frost moon because the temperatures on the plains are still warm enough for moisture and frost to accumulate. The mornings begin with this beautiful blanket to remind us that winter is almost here and we must...
by Lavertyt | Nov 18, 2020 | #MétisMindful
For the most part, fall is the time to bring together all of the preparations for winter. When the cold and snow arrive in Saskatchewan, it is necessary to have large supplies of food, warm clothes, and warm lodgings. Fall harvest is meant to be a time for community...
by Lavertyt | Nov 10, 2020 | #MétisMindful
Pa iksitii (Patience) is a deeply held Métis/Michif value. I am told by the people who hold the stories that it is important to take time and enjoy the day-to-day activities of our lives. Learning to be aware of the sensations provided by our environments was...
by Lavertyt | Nov 3, 2020 | #MétisMindful
Fall is a natural time of migration for many of our relatives. As the days grow shorter and colder many relocate to an environment that is better suited to their survival. The old people tell me that while our relatives often moved with the seasons, we did not,...
by Lavertyt | Oct 6, 2020 | #MétisMindful
A slow inhale will hold space for others while a slow exhale leaves space for us. It is commonly understood by Métis hunters that October is the end of Moose rutting season and the beginning of Moose hunting season. The lesson is that there is a season for everything...
by Lavertyt | Sep 29, 2020 | #MétisMindful
The Hunters Moon inhales responsibility and exhales gratitude. The old people remind me that the full moon in October signals a time to prepare for the coming winter. During this time we hunt, gather and harvest for provisions that will take us through a long...
by Lavertyt | Sep 17, 2020 | #MétisMindful
One of my most treasured Métis values is the Joy with which we approach life. Chimiyayhtamihk epimawtishihk (life is precious). We are cautioned to remember that hardship and struggle are a part of our experience not so that we remain serious, but so that we...
by Lavertyt | Sep 8, 2020 | #MétisMindful
I am told that in the time when we did things our own way Elders and older family members taught young people through story telling and experiential learning. Games were created that engaged youth in activities that mirrored the work of their community so that...
