People opened their hearts and shared some of their deepest pains on Thursday, May 19, as part of a talking circle.
The talking circle, modeled after a First Nations Healing Circle, was held at Beauté Decor on Main Street in Stettler and organized by Lavera Goodeye. Though only a handful of people attended, each enjoyed tea, company and healing through the process.
The talking circle utilized a talking stick, meaning that only the person with the stick was permitted to speak. This allowed the person with the stick to share as much as they felt they wished to share, and required the others to listen. When the first person was done, the stick would be passed to another.
People spoke about family and work troubles, scary moments in their lives, successes and triumphs, and generally offered words of support and love for each other.
"The circle allows people to interact with others, experience support, understand others and gain inner strength," Goodeye said.
Goodeye is a qualified group facilitator and is trained in family intervention and youth support at Métis Child and Family Services. She provides workshops and healing circles to both adults and elders.