Spring is in the air
Recently the Nation traveled to Toronto to attend the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada’s annual convention. It was huge and it was great to see so many Aboriginal people there either as communities, businesses or just plain interested individuals looking to network. There were exhibitors and delegates galore, but most surprising was the confidence they displayed.
On the journey back to Montreal though my heart pounded and the adrenaline rush was even greater as I looked to the sky. Geese were already returning from their vacation in the South. These weren’t the small flocks associated with the early birds returning but numbered in the hundreds. It was a wonderful sight to see these beautiful and tasty geese against a blue sky.
I opened the window to hear them calling to each other. Not having a goose call I used my voice. Those of you who have hunted with me have compared me to a sick goose, but I prefer to think of it being wounded. Perhaps shot in the neck some would say, but I still try anyhow and without shame.
From what I saw and knowing that this winter was so mild I have to predict an early spring goose hunt for the Cree. I’m already going over and getting my gear ready for when they arrive in Mistissini. Yes, I will be there as I haven’t gone in the past few years to practice that particular traditional pursuit. I was blessed though with a son in November and I know I will need a few for his Walking Out Ceremony. Like any proud father I want to ensure that the goose used in the ceremony will be one that gave itself to me and through me to him. These things are important to me as Amy and I are following the Cree tradition of not letting him touch the ground outside of a tent or house until he has his Walking Out Ceremony.
The hunt itself, though, will renew me and my connections to the land, the community, the people and wildlife that have been such an important part of my life and being. It is for me a time of be a part of the renewal of life that spring heralds.
Many memories are made during this time for all Crees. The jokes and laughs are part of the daily life and bring us closer together or teaches us important lessons. Everyone remembers who won the farting contests or the most games of cribbage. Then there was the time a cousin had a toque that was the same Navy Seals used in movies. He was quite proud of that hat and his bragging about it was dealt with. It was put in a cornflakes box and everyone was to test their shooting skills by using it as a target. The tattered remains and a much less cool hat were returned to him. Many a hunter has smiled at new hunters making that most difficult of shots – the infamous hook shot.
This is a time when family and friends come together to celebrate life and each other. It is a time of sharing, not only the geese but of each other and I thank the geese for that.
This year I am looking for a plucker for my portion of the hunt. I am willing to share part of the kill with that person. If you are interested contact Ken or Dorothy Nicholls and many thanks. Here’s hoping you all have a good hunt this year.