Sandi's Blog

Poverty is Not Our Culture

 
I am awake, I am alive, and this morning’s thought …

Poverty is not our culture; it is simply the environment we have lived in for far too long.

You see, Indigenous people were handed an identity long ago, an identity not of our choosing or making. We were taught we were less than, somehow less equipped, less able to succeed, less valuable. We were denied the right to pursue economic and trade opportunities, denied the right to hunt, fish, and trap. Our hands were metaphorically tied, with no choice but to accept the welfare cheques.

With activities that build pride stripped away, men and women were left feeling useless, with no reason to get out of bed in the morning, if ever. Memories of abuses haunted too many. Alcohol and drugs became the escape.

But we survived.

Haunted, often. Damaged, perhaps. Yet today we somehow still stand and speak and find a way to pray. Nowadays, pride is once again being rebuilt, as men and women realize that poverty is not the only way, and neither is hardcore capitalism.

Now the communities and individuals decide where the line is. Some believe ripping open Mother Earth for resource development is justified. Some do not. But for the first time, the choice is ours as we decide what we hold dear, what we will sacrifice, and who we are because nowadays, we decide our identity, for good or bad.

Me?

In the words of Oprah,

“My feet are still on the ground. I’m just wearing better shoes.”

In my mind, poverty sucks. I spent far too many years letting others decide how much money my family gets and what time I must start and end my workday. My life nowadays is one of beautiful balance – work and play, responsibility to future generations and the next two, that I visit with as often as I can. I ensure my bank account stays at a level that requires zero attention simply because knowing the bills are covered frees my mind to focus on other more important things.

Many feared I would forget who I am, if I were to leave the small town I was raised in, if I were to forget who my parents were. But I didn’t, for I take the fresh air and crystal waters of Lac Seul with me everywhere, along with Dad’s laughter and Mom’s smile.

So, who are you, my friend? Who have you put in charge of your life and aren’t you sick of the excuses by now? You are who YOU choose to be but, for gawd’s sake, CHOOSE.

Before someone else does.
 

I love you!
HUGSSSSSSSS

Sandi
 

***This is an excerpt from Sandi’s most recent book, “I am Awake …”. available for purchase on her website or on Amazon.ca.***