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Ask for what you want; state what you need [column]

DEAR AUNTIE
By J’net AyAy Qwa Yak Sheelth Cavanagh

Dear Auntie:
I feel so guilty for thinking this. My children are taking advantage of me. They only call when they need something, and when they drop off my grandchildren for me to take care of they sometimes disappear for days. I think, ‘well, the grandchildren are better off with me than at a party where they could be hurt,’ but it makes me feel small, like I have no other value. When I’m not needed, I’m completely forgotten. Any advice?
Signed,
I Feel So Sad

Ashley Callingbull [windspeaker confidential]

Windspeaker: What one quality do you most value in a friend?

Ashley Callingbull: Trustworthy. If a friend is trustworthy, I can trust them with my feelings and secrets. Nothing is better than having someone to rely on who will always be true to you.

W: What is it that really makes you mad?
A.C.: Stereotypes. They will never go away because the media is constantly pushing it in our faces. It is something I will have to live with being First Nations, but through all my success I am proving everyone wrong.