Tuesday, October 25, 2011

The new school chatters about the arrival of a Musqueim Talking Stick

As excitement builds for the Grand Opening of the new school this Friday, finishing touches are being put on many elements. Joseph Becker “Tsetscultun” has been busy working on a Talking Stick made of yellow cedar, that will represent the First Nations community in the new school.

In a tribal council circle, a talking stick is passed around from member to member allowing only the person holding the stick to speak. This enables everyone present at a council meeting to be heard, especially those who may be shy. Talking sticks have high ceremonial and spiritual value. The animals carved in the talking stick at Brighouse each represent values Brighouse students stand for.  


Thunderbird – Is the Great Protector of life. The Almighty Teacher who protects the weak and hunted: Symbolizes Respect and Gratitude
Raven – Is the storyteller Trickster; the one who makes people look at their own behaviour: Symbolizes Intelligence and Wisdom
Wolf – Symbolizes Dedication and Faithfulness
Bear – Is the protector and symbolizes Physical Strength, Leadership and Courage.
Whale – Symbolizes Harmony and Communication

Joesph Beck has been carving for over 40 years

0 comments:

Post a Comment