Firekeeper's Daughter

by Angeline Boulley

New Normal, which is what I call what happens when your universe is shaken so badly you can never regain the same axis as before. But you try anyway.

Maybe there’s a word in Anishinaabemowin for when you find solid footing in the rubble after a tragedy.

“My girl, some boats are for the river and some are for the ocean.” I think Granny June is right. I just don’t know which one I am.

What if it’s a strength to love and care for someone you don’t always like?

What if my mother is actually a strong person disguised as someone fragile?

“Do you ever have days where every different emotion seems to cling to you and it’s just … too much?”

Even inaction is a powerful choice.”