Sometimes it was like that when I was with him. Even before all of this happened I could tell what he was feeling or thinking. Sometimes we were separated by great distances when it happened. Yet, I knew. I always know, even when I don’t want to know. Somehow, we’re connected.
“Lorene,” I say trying to explain it, “I’m sure it’s something as old as the stars and moon—but better than email or text messaging.” We laugh.
“Oh, you!” she says, bumping her shoulder into mine.
With Wigawaykee and me it started long ago, sometime after our first kiss, but since that night it happens more frequently and is more intense. It’s as if all of the energy he had used to communicate and express himself in other ways now comes directly to me.
So when I told this particular story earlier today I felt a stirring in my chest that stopped my breathing. I was filled with regret and sorrow and love. I wept heavy tears. Then I floated to the top of the room and watched him sleep.
Now I look at him and think how much he has given me. Because of him I am alive. Because of him I am remembering how to laugh. Because of him I am healing. Because of him I honour my ability to survive. Most of all because of him I know I am capable of truly loving someone. He taught me all of that.
So, yes. I would like to believe he will awaken whole and strong. But I know it may never happen. I know that.
And yet I know that love can heal.
Love can heal us all.
KATERI AKIWENZIE-DAMM is a writer, poet, spoken-word performer, librettist, and activist from the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. She is the founder and Managing Editor of Kegedonce Press which was established in 1993 to publish the work of Indigenous creators. Kateri has written two books of poetry, was a contributor to the graphic novel anthology This Place: 150 Years Retold, was editor of the award-winning Skins: Contemporary Indigenous Writing, and has also released two poetry and music CDs. Kateri’s work has been published internationally, and she has performed and spoken around the world.
The Stone Collection Page 13
