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 I wait for the spring awakening of the Great Mother. Birds return bringing with them their ancient song. Buds sprout, bursting open. Tulips are one of the first to press forward out of dark sleep into bright joy. The warming sun brings in a new energy as the long winter retreats, taking with it the old.

It is time for us all to awaken, to grow, to be fearless and to uncover our true self. To be visible, seen and heard, to be able to speak. The Ojibway word ‘bimaadiziwin*’ is inviting us to live the good life. To be in that natural place of belonging, intertwined with the earth and sky.

We were born to live in harmony with creation, to honour and respect ourselves.

(*can be translated as, “a healthy way of life”)

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writing & artwork by Paul Shilling