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| The following are a sample of comments from youth who participated in the Youth Gatherings held over the past 10 years, as we worked to prepare for the building of the Turtle Lodge. | ||||||||||
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"I went to this gathering
to learn, heal and reconnect with nature. The first night, we lit the
sacred fire and made traditional offerings and prayers. We learned that
the fire represents the spirit in all of us - Mother Earth, the adults,
the youth and the children. Every night we entered the healing circle
- with spirit - and our hearts - feel the power that lives. During the
days, we shared our experiences, visions and teachings in the workshops.
We brain stormed on what kind of restructuring our society needs to
stop the aggression and destruction that plagues us. The souls at the
gathering all bonded and left with a message of peace and harmony to
share with their communities. I will cherish this experience in my heart
forever. I want there to be peace in all hearts forever."
Semira (Montreal, Canada) April 1998, Youth Gathering, Hecla Island, Manitoba |
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| "What
really touched me about this gathering was the unconditional acceptance
of one another, no matter what our background, race or problems. The atmosphere
to me is a very safe place and no one has to worry about impressing anyone.
Also, being outside was nice. Being outside helps me feel more connected
to myself, my spirit and Mother Earth." Lauren (Ontario, Canada) August 1998, Youth Gathering, Temagami, Ontario |
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| "This
youth gathering was so life changing, it touched me in so many ways. I
knew I needed something like this and I knew I had so much to learn about
Creator and my spirit and purpose in life, but I had no idea how much
that meant. It means to change everything in my way of approaching life.
I feel so taken care of here. All the people, the elders and the young
ones have such a sincere care and acceptance for all of us. I feel safe
to say so much and they have helped me not to feel shame from things I
have done in the past." Francie (Wisconsin, USA) August 1998, Youth Gathering, Temagami, Ontario |
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| "This
youth gathering was so life changing, it touched me in so many ways. I
knew I needed something like this and I knew I had so much to learn about
Creator and my spirit and purpose in life, but I had no idea how much
that meant. It means to change everything in my way of approaching life.
I feel so taken care of here. All the people, the elders and the young
ones have such a sincere care and acceptance for all of us. I feel safe
to say so much and they have helped me not to feel shame from things I
have done in the past." Francie (Wisconsin, USA) August 1998, Youth Gathering, Temagami, Ontario |
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| "My
thoughts about the gathering is that it helped me realize how important
life really is - that drugs are a waste of time - the same with alcohol.
But, I don't drink no more because of my ulcer, which I'm only 15 years
old. I know now that the only way to save our people is to stay sober
- to return to our ways. Thank you for helping me see." Blue Stone Man (New Brunswick, Canada) February 1999, Youth Gathering, Selkirk, Manitoba |
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| "The
feeling I have now is indescribable. My spirit is so high and my thoughts
are pure. These gatherings have changed my life. They made me see who
I really am deep down inside. When I come to these gatherings I know I
will see people who understand and people I could trust. I now have a
closer relationship with the Creator and I know I will be watched over.
These gatherings have touched me in a way I didn't know I could be touched
and it feels good to know I am loved." Jennifer (Ontario, Canada) February 1999, Youth Gathering, Selkirk, Manitoba |
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"What I have seen and felt in this gathering
is people (Youth) coming together for many the first time in their lives
with other youth in a non-violent way to learn about other cultures
and come to an understanding of what our world is created for - to live
in peace. I have felt the youth find a center in their minds and hearts
that was not there before. I have seen them want to learn more about
each other." |
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