Xavier Kataquapit

Everyone who has lost a father or mother understands what a terrible hole that makes in one’s life. It seemed that those people who were so much a part of our earliest years would always be around. In fact in talking with friends recently it dawned on us that most of the people we know are not even making it to their mid or late 70s. This seems more the case in First Nations where people are just not living as long as they should as a result of hard lives in remote communities. We are losing our Elders far too early because of diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

A lot of my non-Native friends are surprised when I tell them that fishing is not a big part of my cultural background and experience. Most Cree people up the James Bay coast were hunters and gatherers predominantly interested in hunting geese, moose and caribou.

I love wood or Mistik. I must be part Beaver or Amisk because I am always wrapped up in projects where wood is the main ingredient.
Trees of course are an enormous contributor to our life on this planet and my people have great respect for these tough and often towering giants on the land. From the dawn of time trees have provided humans with warmth though fire and comfort and protection from the elements.

There are a lot of great Aboriginal artists past and present in Canada. I am amazed at the natural talent we Native Canadians have when it comes to creativity. One of my favourite artists is Norval Morrisseau. He has a special place in my heart because his paintings are so powerful and connected to the land and the creatures of Mother Earth.

I can’t seem to get comfortable with the change of season this year from fall to winter.
There is a good reason for this as the weather is up and down like a yo-yo. I have seen snow come and go several times now and in huge storms with very high winds. Then I have seen torrential downpours of rain with the rapid departure of snow on the ground, roofs and lake.