A Welcome Message from
Syexwáliya Ann Whonnock,
Skwxwú7mesh Squamish Nation

Take Care of Yourself

While we know that remembering our loved ones is something we may never stop doing, it can still bring both happy and painful feelings – and sometimes both at the same time. Acknowledging these feelings, sitting with them, and letting them go when we are ready is all part of our journey. To do that though, we need to take care of ourselves and each other.

Before you begin this work make a plan for how you are going to handle the feelings that will come up. Some examples include having a friend or family member join you or be available for a chat afterward; smudging or brushing; lighting a candle; going for a walk; going to the water; drumming/singing a song; or doing whatever ceremony looks like for you.

The potential for big feelings can be scary so when we have a plan it makes going through those feelings easier. The important thing is to know that your feelings are normal and that your plan should be what works for you.

Honouring your Loved One by Sharing a Story

Our Indigenous culture and teachings tell us that storytelling is a good way to share our knowledge and experiences. This virtual space is a safe space to remember, honour and grieve for our friends and family members. This is an opportunity to tell their story, remember them for all that they were, and even share our own experiences.

Sharing our stories has the potential to soothe our souls and to be an outlet for our grief, love and loss. This virtual space is here to hold up your story, your feelings, and your loved one.

Your story can include a photo of your loved one or a piece of art that they made – or that you created. You can add a few (or many) written words. You could tell your story using a video or a sound recording.

If you would like, feel free to share what keeps your loved one with you in a good way. If there was something that helped you process your grief in a healthy way, feel free to share that too.