Lost Languages

"Leo Paul and Alex Mathias are the LAST TWO Teme-augama Anishnabeg who live on the land, off-reserve. They are also among the last 5 speakers of the local Nishnabekwe dialect. - Bob"

On a journey with Alex, he told me he was beginning to fear the loss of his language. He told me about some things he has done and things he was considering. He shared some high points of hope and some low points of frustration.


Languages are being lost all over the world at a rapid rate. One could sit and debate the pros and cons and all the reasons why or why not, this should be. The next obvious question is how much do we try to save languages and what becomes of our lost languages. 


For me, its not the lost language thats the issue, but the broader cultural context. This language was interwoven with a way of life. As I spend time with these elders, I realize the importance of the knowledge they have. I wish that when Europeans came to this country, they didnt see it as a place to own and conquer. I wish that our relations would have been ones based on equality, friendship and trust.


When I look at the conquest, what was lost, what was gained, I cant help but feel a certain shame. Now here I am, enjoying the company of 2 iconic men. I can see what we are losing. I can quickly learn and assimilate, but really in the end there is loss. 


I wish that the Canadian government would identify key important elders and hire them to tell their story and teach the language and pass the knowledge. I understand that a wampum belt is in effect between our peoples, but this would be over and above. This passing of the knowledge is for all of us.


Alex has been sharing the language with me. It is a beautiful language. The word for "window" is translated as "place where light comes in". I try to remember the words, but sadly this 50 year old brain cant. I told Alex that I could dedicate my life to learning the language, but really, that would only buy another 10 years or so and would pass with me, and as I said, the language is just the tip of the iceberg. I am not the answer, I am only a witness.


Lord God,I thank you for Alex Mathias and Leo Paul.
Great Spirit guide and protect them
and help me to be
who I am to be
amen