Aakwa’ode’ewin or Bravery: A Journey of Heart and Strength

This week, as I attended a board retreat in Toronto, a moment of profound reflection was prompted by a simple yet powerful word: “bravery/courage.” Our board chair asked each of us to share what courage means to us personally, drawing upon the Seven Grandfather Teachings from the Anishinaabe guiding principles. Bravery, or “Aakwa’ode’ewin,” is more than just courage; it is the heart’s strength in the face of life’s adversities.

For those who know me well, you know I pride myself on being strong and maintaining a calm demeanor. Yet, when it came my turn to speak about courage, I found myself overwhelmed with emotion. Words failed me, and all I could share were tears—tears that carried happiness, joy, grief, and strength. It was a moment that encapsulated so much of what has transpired since last December, when Alyce was born and re-admitted to the hospital, together with the full weight of my 37 years of existence.

In the days that followed, I took the time to reflect deeply on what bravery means to me. Here are a few thoughts that crystallized from that reflection:

1. Integrity in Decisions: Courage, for me, is the steadfast commitment to integrity in my decisions, no matter how unpleasant or difficult they may be. It’s the inner strength to stand by what I decide, even when it bears significant consequences.

2. Faith Amidst Uncertainty: Courage is also about relinquishing control over certain things while maintaining faith and a positive outlook. It’s trusting in a positive outcome, even when the path ahead is unclear.

3. Fighting: Lastly, courage is fighting for myself, or others, knowing that the love, understanding, and help I give may not always be reciprocated, or will never be reciprocated the way I share it. It’s the unwavering resolve to stand up for what and whom I believe in, despite the risks and uncertainties.

This year has brought its share of challenges and triumphs. From Alyce’s health journey to the daily dance of balancing life and love, every step has demanded a different kind of courage. Through it all, I have come to understand that courage is not a singular act of bravery but a tapestry woven with threads of integrity, faith, and love.

Though we all navigate our own paths, let us remember that courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to face it head-on. It is in our moments of vulnerability that our true strength shines through.

And as food for thought: In the quiet moments of our lives, when we face the unknown and the uncontrollable, let us find courage in our hearts. Let us be guided by integrity, faith, and the unwavering fight for life. For it is in these acts, no matter how small, that we find the true essence of bravery.

With love and an open heart,

Kat

Woof Woof! 🐾

Bonjour, les amis! Ah, another week in the life of us, the ever-fabulous French bulldogs, Boujee and Dapper. Grab a croissant, sit back, and enjoy our delightful escapades. This week has been hotter than a French summer day in Nice, mon dieu! The weather has been playing tricks on us – one moment it’s storming like a scene from Les Misérables, and the next, it’s so hot you’d think we were on the Riviera. Naturally, we’ve been seeking refuge inside with the blissful, divine AC. Très chic, non?

Boujee here, always the connoisseur of luxury, decided to bask in the sun by the front window. It’s like having our own little slice of Saint-Tropez right at home. Of course, where Boujee goes, Dapper follows. The heat, however, led us to discover a new favorite spot – under the sofa. Ah, the shade, the cool floor, the prime viewing angle! Watching humans scurry about from under there is almost as entertaining as the front row at the Olympics.

Now, let’s talk about the apple of Dapper’s eye – Alyce. Dapper, our resident Casanova, has found a new favorite spot: right by Alyce’s crib. It’s a tough job, but someone has to make sure our little human princess falls asleep safe and sound. Dapper takes his role very seriously, lying there with the dedication of a knight guarding his castle. Bravo, Dapper, bravo!

Oh, the memories of our vacation at Auntie Sheryl’s place. The treats, the belly rubs, the freedom! Auntie Sheryl truly knows how to spoil us. We often reminisce about those carefree days, dreaming of the next time we can bask in the glory of her pampering. Auntie Sheryl, if you’re reading this, we miss you and your magical treat-giving hands!

Life is good, les amis. We love our humans, we love our treats, and we absolutely adore the little adventures that make up our days. Whether it’s lounging under the sofa, sunbathing by the window, or guarding Alyce’s crib, we’re living our best lives. After all, isn’t that what being a French bulldog is all about?

Until next time, stay fabulous, stay cool, and remember: life is too short to not enjoy the little luxuries.

Boujee & Dapper ❤️

Thank you to our dear Vilhelmians for following our adventures! Hit like and subscribe for more! Get ready for a wild ride! Hit that subscribe button to join our awesome Substack community! Vilheeeeeelm!