December 14, 2010

Love of Children

Written by: Gail Weinstein, CITC Academic Advocate/Site Manager

Mike did not speak in words. Sometimes he would ‘face talk’ with eyebrows but not much. He came to school every day and we noticed that he responded to Native music. We encouraged him to try the after school program at the Heritage Center and finally he began attending. After some time he was willing and able to join our school based culture club and dance group.

The next year our CITC Native Culture and Assests group prepared to present and perform at a large international conference in Texas. We would deliver a learning session and dancing became a part it. Mike, still a student of few words, was a member of the group, invited to travel.

The conference was huge. The students were amazed by the giant bugs of Texas, the clean cars, and one student so moved, gave away our sole drum to a total stranger who admired it. Finally, on the last day it was our turn for the presentation. Plastic juice bottle serving as drum the students were awe inspiring in their roles. The interactive session created a community of smaller working groups and our audience began asking questions. As the room silenced Mike, tall and proud began to speak! Mike talked of his Native cultural values, he spoke of his family and traditional Native practices, he spoke of subsistence, he spoke of his school, his community and his people. We were amazed to hear his clear voice and filled with joy to witness the expression of love from Mike toward his culture in his own words. He spoke and talked and shared.

It was a new beginning for Mike and the rest of his life.

This was my experience of the power of our youth and what we as educators hold in making connections and directing children by never giving up – no matter what.

One can influence life itself though that determination of a loving spirit.