Postured Hearts

This past Saturday, September 30, was set aside as a day of “Truth and Reconciliation” in Canada; a day to honour our Indigenous brothers and sisters, recognize the injustices that have occurred in our country, and seek reconciliation, especially for the fall-out from residential schools.

It seemed like an appropriate time to share briefly from a seminar I attended recently called “Embracing Indigenous Education with a Christ Mindset”. The facilitator, Toni Boer, was an amazing presenter. As a Christian of First Nations descent, she had a unique point of view and spoke both eloquently and passionately, but never with accusation. Her presentations (I went to more than one!) were given through a lens of respect, kindness, and humanity.

First, she encouraged us to “posture our hearts”. In a practical sense, this means approaching Indigenous education with a mindset that honors, creates relationship, and is sincere. It’s not about learning prescribed content or using the perfect curriculum. Instead, listen! There are many stories waiting to be told. Posturing our hearts is about sitting at another’s feet with a willingness to learn.

Reconciliation requires action, but fear of doing something “wrong” can get in the way of taking action. That’s why it is so important to start by listening. Respect each other’s stories because story brings us closer together. As a writer, this really resonates with me. Also, we don’t always need to fill the void with speaking. Sometimes silence is needed.

We don’t need to be experts and shouldn’t pretend to be, so humility is key. Of course, there is a difference between appropriation and appreciation, but being willing to admit our mistakes and learn from them shows sincerity.

This mindset goes a long way beyond the classroom. There is so much we can learn from each other when we respect one another and truly listen. “Truth and reconciliation” isn’t a laundry list. It will take time and trust must be built. I agree with Toni when she says one of the best ways to do this is to honor our Creator by asking: What is HIS heart for Indigenous people? What is HIS heart for truth and reconciliation?

In the end, God is the only expert, and real reconciliation can come only through His guidance and forgiveness.

Notes from “Embracing Indigenous Education with a Christ Mindset” by Toni Boer at HCOS RenewEd Conference August 2023.