What can we control?
Life often takes us on journeys we don’t anticipate, but within those moments of struggle lie the seeds of growth. I want to share with you a story of resilience and hope, rooted in the teachings of my Kookum (grandmother), whose wisdom transformed one of the hardest times in my life into a foundation for strength.
A New Beginning in Sweetgrass
My childhood was marked by upheaval. When life became unbearable, my mother made the courageous decision to remove us from a harmful environment. We moved to shelters, and eventually, we received a call from my Kookum, inviting us to live with her on Sweetgrass First Nation.
We arrived with all our possessions packed in garbage bags and boxes. Kookum’s home was small, with one bedroom, a washroom, and a long living room where my family of five created a home. My mother slept on the couch, and the rest of us made beds on the floor. Though space was tight, that living room became more than a shelter—it became a place of transformation.
Learning from Kookum
As a child, I spent hours sitting in that living room, observing my Kookum. She embodied kindness and community. She welcomed everyone who visited her home with a warm handshake and ensured they left nourished. Through her actions, I learned the importance of generosity, respect, and cultural values, including understanding that avoiding direct eye contact in our traditions signifies humility, not disrespect.
Kookum’s greatest gift to us was her stories. Each one carried a lesson, often revealed only after reflection or questions. Her teachings became the pillars that shaped my life, and I want to share the first one with you today.
You Are Chosen
Kookum often reminded us that from the moment we are born, we are chosen. We are given gifts, talents, and abilities to navigate the path laid before us. However, obstacles—whether external challenges or internal struggles—can derail us if we allow them.
As I grew older and began building businesses, I realized the truth in her words. Success is deeply influenced by the relationships we nurture, especially within our “home fire”—our family and close connections. When our foundation at home is strong, it empowers us to face the challenges of the world with resilience.
Restoring Hope
Back in my community, too many young people have lost sight of their gifts, leading to devastating outcomes like suicide. I’ve seen this firsthand. The absence of encouragement—the simple reminder that “you are special”—can have profound consequences.
We all face moments of despair, whether in our personal lives or professional journeys. Trust may be broken, and circumstances may feel beyond our control. Yet, what remains within our power is how we choose to move forward.
Your Next Step
My Kookum’s teachings remind us that we cannot always change the decisions made for us or the obstacles in our path. What we can control is our perspective and our next step.
Remember this: you are chosen. You have unique gifts and talents meant to make a difference in this world. When challenges arise, let them refine you, not define you. Find strength in your roots, cherish the wisdom of those who came before you, and take that next step forward with purpose.
Life’s hardest moments often become the foundation for our greatest growth. Let’s build from there.
hiy hiy