Grateful to have Been Able to Join with a Group For Some Cultural Drumming & Singing Today via /r/gratitude

I had become accustomed to being able to join with a group for some Indigenous drumming and singing each and every Friday afternoon, …. but then the lady had a week off and then a week of training and then a week or 2 of alternate staffing obligations, then 1 week drumming and singing practice, and drumming and singing at the feast in the same week….. then under staffed so missed another week followed by the lady off for 2 Fridays with new of an extended leave >> so basically that was 6 weeks with no drumming and singing.

For me drumming and singing had become almost a necessity …like a weekly act of maintenance and self care, an act of connection/communing with combined purpose and laughter, an act of spirituality and thanks giving to creator and an act of care for my body as well, knowing the health and energy benefits, with increased endorphins. It is kind of like a re-set at the end of the week, to cast off all the stressors. I leaves me feeling joyful and renewed.

It had been such a tough week with a staff having been fired and all the stressful things that had gone on.

So I set out to travel to join with a further group that I knew less well and had only gathered with 1-2 times prior. I was not sure if I would make it there, but knowing I had other engagements overlapping and would be late…I also knew how I really did need it as a health and spiritual activity for some connection and healing.

I did go- I got there late and worried if that would be an issue at all.

It was not.

I was met with familiarity, smiles and a warm and large welcome. That moment, even before I touched a drum,…. made the trip on this weary day, worth it and I was so glad I had gone.

It was such a good circle, everyone so at ease. There was much laughter some joking. Felt so good to have the drum in my hand, to hear the beat and to be singing again.

I was grateful for the warm welcome, grateful for the energy & spirituality.

Was really grateful for the sense of belonging and so grateful for the drum and the song…………………… grateful for this circle on this day.

Miigwetch, / Thank-you.

ps Also grateful for the lady on leave, for her bringing me in and making it part of my life. I am hoping she is doing alright and sending prayers her way…. 🫶🦋🙏🥀🌺🌹🌄💛🧡💜💚🤍