Find happiness where you can

Page 4

Okay. For the past few months, I've been writing about Aboriginal issues, thoughts and some ideologies. I've taken a token of responsibility as a young, Aboriginal male and hopefully, lived up to what my grandfathers may have wanted. So, as a young, Aboriginal male, what do I have to say about my white girlfriend?

I mean, I preach about keeping in touch with our heritage, our ways, yet I live with a girl who is white. What do I have to say?

I say this: happiness is rare in our short lives, and to find happiness with another human being is rarer still. The days of traditional thinking about keeping our bloodlines "pure" are long gone. Why do I say this?

Recently, I read a study given to me by my mother. We were astounded to discover that our people will, overall, not be eligible for treaty status in from 20 years to one generation. A government study. Despite the baby-boom rise in Aboriginal population, according to legalities, many Aboriginal people will no longer qualify for registered Indian status soon. Our people will vanish.

It was to be expected. Eventually, the breeding process will carry forth till people are part this and part that, but in the eyes of history, our people will be gone. It is a sad revelation to share with everyone, but shared, it must be.

I can't imagine traditional ways dying out or anything, just as I can't imagine the Aboriginal cultural spirit diminishing. However, we must be aware of the oncoming danger and attempt to preserve whatever vestige of our ways by teaching our youth. I guess the basic message is to hold on to the culture, the traditional ways, and teach them to the oncoming generations. But I believe that we should find happiness where we can. Especially in this short life.

As for myself, well, I love my girl. No decisions to rethink and no regrets. I urge the same to anyone in similar circumstances. Remember, Hitler wanted to keep the bloodline pure too.