by Wasuek Googoo
There is something about walking along old Mi’kmaw trails in the mountains that energizes one’s body, renews their spirit and brings a sense of calming familiarity. Each time I walk amongst the trees of old, I often envision how our ancestors would have looked like, what they would have been doing and if I would even be able to communicate with them based on my limited knowledge of the Mi’kmaw language. If you listen carefully, the spirits of the forests talk to you and bring clarity to your thoughts. They speak of abundance, freedom, knowledge and carry the secrets of the land whether it’s about hunting, prosperity, or times of war it had witnessed.
There are old trail markers that you can spot amongst the trees, pointing to a water source, an old hunting ground and if you are fortunate, an old Mi’kmaw settlement. Those who are fortunate enough to carry the teachings of the old and the wise, could point out the old trail markers. Historically, the Mi’kmaq would begin bending a young tree or a branch. Over time, the tree would grow and naturally become, “Mi’kmaw Street Signs.” A term Jeff Ward uses to describe trail markers. History records indicate our Mi’kmaw guides and hunters would also inscribe trail information onto big rocks and trees. This information would inform other guides and hunters about the different types of animals and medicines along the trail, as well as information about the terrain and whether you could find a water source. ...
Tags: g’mdunigtoog, k’mtn’iktu’k, kmtn, Mi’kmaw, Potlotek First Nation, Unama'ki, Walking Amongst Our Ancestors
