How My Kokum Shaped My Journey

Life is often a series of unexpected twists and turns, each bringing its own set of challenges and lessons. One such pivotal moment in my life was the move to my childhood reserve, where I am registered and was raised. It was here, amidst humble surroundings and the wisdom of my Kokum (grandmother), that I learned some of the most valuable lessons about life, storytelling, and living in a good way.

A New Beginning on the Reserve

We moved two hours away to our childhood reserve, a place that would become a profound part of my identity. The transition was not easy. Our new home was my Kokum’s one-bedroom house, with a small living room where my mom slept on a little couch and my siblings and I on the floor. This modest space became our sanctuary for the next several months, a place where we found warmth, love, and invaluable teachings.

The Wisdom of Kookum

During this time, my Kokum played a crucial role in my upbringing. My mother had broken her arm, and Kokum stepped in to tend to me while my mom cared for my three siblings. This period brought me very close to my grandmother, a bond that would shape my life in ways I could never have imagined.

Kokum only spoke Cree, our Indigenous language. At a young age, I was just beginning to learn Cree, so our conversations were a blend of her fluent Cree and my emerging understanding. These interactions were not just about learning a language; they were about connecting with my heritage and absorbing the wisdom passed down through generations.

Teachings of a Lifetime

Kokum’s teachings were profound and deeply rooted in our culture. She taught me about the importance of storytelling, a tradition that is central to Indigenous communities. Through stories, we preserve our history, share our values, and teach important life lessons. Kokum’s stories were rich with meaning, teaching me about resilience, kindness, and the importance of living in a good way—(speaking in foreign language)—to move forward in a good way.

One lesson that stands out is her advice on how to interact with others and the significance of our actions. “Watch how you leave someone’s house,” she would say, emphasizing respect and gratitude in every interaction. These teachings were not just about etiquette; they were about building relationships and fostering a sense of community.

Healing Through Wisdom

Perhaps the most profound lesson Kokum taught me was one that significantly influenced my healing journey and helped me navigate turning point events in my life. She emphasized living in a good way, a philosophy that encompasses kindness, respect, and maintaining balance in life. This teaching became a cornerstone in my personal growth and my efforts to overcome challenges.

Kokum’s wisdom provided me with the tools to process and heal from difficult experiences. Her lessons were not just about coping but about thriving—finding strength in our culture, in our stories, and in the connections we build with others.

Carrying Forward Kookum’s Legacy

The time spent on the reserve with my Kokum has left an indelible mark on my life. Her teachings continue to guide me, both personally and in my work with Neechie Gear. The values she instilled in me—respect, resilience, and the importance of community—are integral to the mission of Neechie Gear. We strive to empower youth and uplift underprivileged communities, reflecting the principles of living in a good way.

Today, as I share my story and the mission of Neechie Gear, I carry forward Kokum’s legacy. Her wisdom and love are woven into every aspect of our work. By honouring her teachings, we aim to create a ripple effect of positive change, inspiring others to embrace their heritage and live in a good way.

A Journey of Growth and Learning

Moving to my childhood reserve was more than just a change of scenery; it was a transformative experience that shaped my understanding of life and my place in the world. The lessons learned from my Kokum during those challenging months have been a guiding light, helping me navigate life’s journey with resilience and purpose.

Through Neechie Gear, I strive to share these lessons and empower others to find their path. Kokum’s wisdom continues to inspire me, reminding me that no matter where we start, we have the power to create positive change and live in a good way.

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How to Embrace Indigenous Wisdom and Healing:

1. Remember your roots – Reflect on your teachings and traditions for clarity in a fast-paced world.

2. Immerse yourself in storytelling – Embrace the power of (speaking in language) to connect with your ancestors and learn valuable lessons for living life in a good way.

3. Honour your elders – Remember the sacrifices made by your family, like your Kokum, who raised you with love and guidance when your mother needed help.

4. Embrace your language – Even if it’s challenging, learn to communicate in your Indigenous language to preserve your culture and heritage.

5. Practice kindness and respect – Pay attention to the details of how you interact with others, including simple acts like saying “see you again” when leaving someone’s home.

6. Embrace healing – Use the profound wisdom passed down to you to navigate through difficult times and find your way to emotional and spiritual well-being.

Remember the lessons learned from your Kokum and the importance of following the path of your ancestors to find healing and peace in your journey.

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