The sacred journey

Sharing stories of wisdom and faith with Aboriginal women

By Sr. Norma Samar, O.L.M.
Summer 2003

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As part of her sabbatical year, Sr. Norma Samar had the privilege of traveling to some of the communities in the Diocese of Keewatin-Le Pas, Manitoba, and participating in various gatherings. She accompanied Our Lady's Missionary Sr. Rosemary Hughes who resides in Nelson House and is a member of the Ministry Formation Team of the diocese.

In her article, Sr. Norma speaks to two First Nations women she met in the North.

Dear Agnes and Catherine:
You have talked to the trees, the sun, the wind, the birds, the rivers, the big rocks, and the white snow that surrounds you. Do they know what God is asking of you? Well, my dears, they too are just trying and wanting 'to be'. They know that they too are being taken care of by a Creator who cares for all.

So Agnes, when you told me your story, tears came to your eyes and you ended up with many questions: "Why am I like this? Why am I the only one in our family practicing the Catholic faith? I just don't understand it. We have many problems in our family."

You know, Agnes, it is not for me to make a judgement, a conclusion, or to give a solution. God's plan is so mysterious that we humans have a hard time comprehending what God wants of us or what God is telling us. Someday, sometime, somewhere, God will give you grace to understand. Right now, I see that you are like a plant trying to blossom, to see the sunlight, to feel the breeze and the warmth of the sun embracing you.

Yes, there is Someone greater that we are, Someone who is present and who has great compassion for you just because you are you. God sees you with eyes full of love and compassion.

Agnes, as I began to know you, I discovered your love for your children and grandchildren, and for your husband George who was always at your side supporting you in all that you do. Your dedicated work as an assistant teacher in Otetiskiwin Kiskinwamahtowedamik (Footprints) School and as a church leader has been a gift to the community. As one of those trained women leaders in the church, celebrating the liturgical services in the absence of a priest, you have been a source of life for the faith community. So Agnes, let us be still and know that God is present with us always.

To you, dear Catherine, at the age of 79, I can see your life's struggle, too-but with joy interspersed with the pains. When you talked to me, your gentle eyes brightened and your voice had authority-the power of many life experiences.

I felt privileged to be with Sr. Rosemary Hughes who brought me to your home for a visit. I saw in your hand animal fur and my eyes were filled with curiosity. You told me that it was beaver fur. You still process animal skins the traditional way, making them clean, white, and soft. You showed me different sizes of beaver pelts used to trim mitts, shoes, slippers, and hats, which give warmth and protection against the bitter cold of the north.

At another time, you told me your story of faith, how you were sick with cancer and were healed when St. Theresa of the Child Jesus visited you in the night. You told me a little about your medicine man from whom you seek healing through herbs and the roots and bark of the trees. He, too, is getting older and is passing on his knowledge of healing to his son.

Well, Catherine and Agnes, thanks for your stories. Keep telling these stories of faith to the next generation. Keep the fire burning within you and help us to understand the drum beat of your life. Forgive me if I am ever out of step with the rhythm of your drum.

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