My Spirit name is Zaagiidgeaway Gabo (Standing near the top of a hill). I am 68 year old Ojibway Elder, artist , Musician & Traditional Healer from Temagami First Nation Bear Island On, P0H1C0 I lived my early childhood in the traditional native way on our family trap-line on Lake Temagami, hunting, fishing and Trapping. During the winter months I learned about our lifestyle and spiritual ways through the Elders and Medicine People, Storytelling and spiritual teachings were given to me by my Grandfathers, Grandmothers and parents.

This was the beginning of the "Seven Grandfather Teachings". During these early years I also understood how family lifestyle teachings were the strengths to help us into adulthood. I watched as my childhood friends were taken away to resident school by the Indian agents and policeman. This would have a deep affect on me for the rest of my life. When they returned home I saw their emptyness and low self worth and lack of interest in family lifestyle and spiritual culture and growth. I lost many of my best friends to suicide. more... See more text