A Letter To My Son

By Heather Watts

Heather and her son Nico enjoying the celebration at Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation annual powwow!
Heather and her son Nico enjoying the celebration at Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation annual powwow!

You were born late on a cold November night. At that moment, I also experienced a rebirth of sorts. When you were first placed in my arms, I felt more weight than the 10 pounds 2 ounces announced by the nurse. I felt the weight of your safety; physical, emotional, spiritual, and the great honour bestowed upon me to guide you through life. The weight of responsibility was overwhelming. You watch my every move, listen to my every word, and observe every emotion. What traditions I decide to practice, what language I speak, my hobbies, how I deal with sorrow, how I express joy, are all going to shine through as ‘the way’ to be.