This day was very special in many ways. When we arrived at the school it was raining. Definitely not ideal weather, but I feel like that’s what made it even more meaningful in a way. Our first guest we had was Clayton Gauthier, who is an Indigenous artist here in Prince George. I was very thankful he came to visit our class to share his wisdom with us. At the end of his talk, he asked us all to go around the circle and say something that we would do to honour ourselves and to care for ourselves. I found this very powerful because I feel like as people, we often don’t think about what we can do to honour ourselves. The way it was put was very impactful and people really opened up in the circle when we were sharing. I love the concept of a circle because it is a safe space for people to share and be vulnerable with one another. I was taught that whatever is said in the circle doesn’t leave the circle. I believe that is a reason why people feel comfortable to share out their feelings and emotions.
Our second guests were the UHNBC drummers. As a class, we got the opportunity to drum with them and learn about the importance of Indigenous history in Canada and reconciliation. I find drumming very special to partake in because it really brings people together. It’s a relationship building practice and fosters inclusivity and acceptance as anyone is welcome to join.
I attached a picture of my class after our gathering with Clayton and the UHNBC drummers. I really feel like these gatherings brought us together as a class and I am very grateful we got to experience such an authentic day together.