Author: arianna0426

7/17 (little late oops)

This past week our assignment was to create something that reflects yourself using photoshop. The prompt was difficult for me as I struggled to decide what to do. As I was throughout campus I continually saw hummingbirds. Hummingbirds have always held a special place in my heart. It brings back memories of my dad and I trying to attract and feed hummingbirds from our own hands. When we hear the distinct light noise of the small birds wings we always smile. I always tend to see hummingbirds in times of need, and immediately become comforted. They always appear at the perfect time and place as a form of support and encouragement. I gain a sense of relief which boosts my confidence. Butterflies remind me of my mother as they are so beautiful and serene. Just as hummingbirds, they remind me how important it is to appreciate all of the beautiful things in life no matter how small they are. The landscape behind me is the flower garden of Claude Monet who is a famous artist. I’ve always felt connected to nature and the true intensity of it all. I always try to take my time and smell the roses instead of moving fast in tunnel vision. The flower garden signifies my grandfather as he encouraged my love of flowers and plants. From a young age, I remember him tending to his own gardens with uttermost love. To this day he grows the most amazing flowers and fruit.

The past few days have been completely jam-packed with discussions and activities. Ever since we came back from Wishtoyo, we have been exposed to many things to keep us on our feet. Because of that I am a couple of blog posts behind from being so busy but I’ll update that soon. I personally love when we join together in our talking circles. It allows for all of us to open up to each other and gain new understandings. In a discussion we had with Auntie Julia yesterday, we discussed what are ancestors left to us and what we can leave for future generations. My ancestors left for me my culture which makes me. They left me their wisdom and strength to carry his power I possess and grow to spread my knowledge. For future generations I hope to leave my knowledge and past experiences. I hope to grow wise and fufill my duty on this earth. I hope to always be remembered and leave a lasting impact on many. We also were able to connect through basket weaving and a drum circle with Auntie Josie. Basket weaving brought back good memories of the past. It was so interesting seeing how all of our baskets turned out so unique like each one of us. The drum circle was one of my favorite activities throughout the program. We were able to unite through songs and the energy throughout that night was special. Throughout these past couple of days we also toured both the pitzer and pomona campuses. I’ve toured both before however this time I gained more information which eased my nerves regarding the transition from high school to college since I will be starting my senior year this fall. 

Today consisted of our daily routine of writing and mayan math along with additional activities. We participated in a game design workshop where we were able to come up with ideas in groups and test our games with others. Towards the end of the day, we watched a movie called “Spirit Games” which narrates the story of the national Iroquois lacrosse team. We were able to follow them along their journey through multiple challenges and witness the strength of the indigenous group.  It was an emotional journey that I felt part of and I will forever be impacted by their determination.

Today we explored big problems that are prevalent in our world today. We throughly discussed issues in our own communities and measures that could be taken to solve them. Many environmental and Indigenous rights issues correlate with each other which results in hardships for indigenous communities. Later in the day, we participated in Mexica Flower Wars with Hector and his daughter. Following the war, we met together for a circle and discussed our gratitude to them and what we learned. Most emphasized to me was the importance of teamwork and how vital communication amongst a group is. When we worked together and strategized we succeeded. This act of teamwork allows us to achieve our common goal.

My first steps onto the Pitzer campus this morning, were filled with nervousness and fear. I was consumed with worry because of the fact that I didn’t know anyone attending. I was immediately comforted as I was checking in and recognized some familiar faces. Upon meeting more friends I gained a surge of strength. Everyones’ openness and friendly attitudes made me feel welcomed and even more comfortable. Today’s activities made today pass by very quickly. Every hour we were learning and trying something new. I am extremely appreciative of the speakers we had today and was able to connect with them. One of my favorite activities today occurred after lunch when we had indigenous games. We were taught how to protect ourselves which I find important in this day and age. I felt extremely empowered as a woman knowing I can defend myself. After this activity, we had a circle talk with elder Julia about the rocks we have in our lives. This topic made me think deeply and realize the importance of appreciating those people we have in our lives that prove to be our rocks. I will forever know my rocks as my mother, father, and brother.