Create, Innovate, Inspire, Connect.
I’m looking forward to this year and all the opportunities it will present. 2020 wasn’t terribly awful for me and I share the disappointment we all have towards what we wished it could be. Although I’ve had my core bubble I’ve been lonely at times and I extremely miss the connection with people I see through work and people I normally run into and share moments with.
For 2021 I’ve set out to make stronger intentions that will be resilient despite the pandemic.
Over the holidays I picked up a notebook that was on display on my beadwork desk. I placed it there only recently and didn’t read what was inside while it was there until a few days ago. I was surprised to learn I had started it in 2014. On the title page I wrote “Create. Innovate. Inspire.” As I turned the pages I found a version of myself that was wholeheartedly committed to learning and having ambitions goals written down. Same me.. haha
The first few pages were grounded in Nuu-chah-nulth values and teachings. I wrote notes on the Nuu chah nulth word ‘quuʔas’ - how it can be translated to and what it means to be quuʔas.
For those curious what quuʔas means, here is a some of what I wrote:
quuʔas can be translated as “people” or “real human being”
being quuʔas means:
•having pride, pride in who you are, having self-respect and respect for others
•having respect for life in all things, the spirit of all things
•treating people with dignity, respect, friendliness, and using good, kind words to uplift a persons spirit.
(These notes are directly from “The Sayings of Our First People” a book published in 1995 collecting our teachings to raise the next generation. My grandfather was still with us in 2014 when I wrote a note from him on iisaak)
Beyond the first few pages of my notebook, are notes from other books I’ve read over the years along with personal goals. One of the goals was ‘live a healthy lifestyle’ with the question ‘why?’ behind it. Answers: Happiness. Balance. Clarity. Accomplish more.
I’ve recommitted to the goals I set out for myself back then and am happy that I have made progress and learned tips and tricks along the way. One of my best friends reminded me to give myself some credit. As I reflect on not only on this year, but back to when I first wrote these words to myself – I have so much to be proud of.
For 2021, I’ve added the word ‘connect’ to the title page. I will connect deeply with my spirit and values. I will connect with the people I’ve missed so much. I will connect with nature by spending more times outdoors. And there is no doubt I’ve reconnected with beadwork fueling my urge to create. If you’re wondering, my beadwork will be available for purchase in the future and I will let you all know.
