Bird In a Cage($18.46Value)

Description

This story came to me during my days working with my Sister, Andrealisa. She and I were on a journey of our own reconciliation when the Universe brought us back on the same path. This time together was to help her understand my ontology, epistemology, axiology along with some of our methodology (collectively Wabanaki), for the sake of supporting emerging indigenous evaluators. Yet this period moved me into a time of re-awakening for myself. "The Bird In a Cage" was inspired by the "bird in the cage" that has been an analogy for many stories of oppression. From Mya Angelou, to Paul McCartney's "Black Bird", my story is meant to share the experience of trauma in a non-threatening manner. This particular story about Cage #015, is a story that was meant to be shared only orally. When shared orally, emotions and reactions can be met with empathy and understanding, no matter who is the Listener. This would go to support the belief that StoryTeller is a sacred and serious title or position in Wabanaki culture. Storytelling can be described as a helping skill. It is used to transmit knowledge, which eventually turns to wisdom for the Listener. For myself, it has become a way to decolonize the impacts of trauma on Indigenous People. It was important for me to share the message of "Its not your fault/Its not our fault" when faced with the disparities and challenges we are faced with today as Wabanaki People. In the spirit of storytelling, I was able to embrace my place as a storyteller. I have been instructed to teach people about trauma, and this story marks the beginning of this new role I've accepted. To learn more about my journey and how I've come to understand some teachings, follow my Instragram at SogiiSteph