During the past few days our community has been hit by more deaths. There have been two more deaths added to those of last week. I believe that everyone here has been affected by at least one death in their family.

From every corner of Akwesasne there has been at least one death reported since last week. We have just had a large condolence ceremony and we need to get through these deaths so that we can heal as a community again.

We have all been hurt by the events of the summer of 2009. Some more directly than others. Some may  have had a direct conflict with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and others have been indirectly affected.

We have traveled the waterways around Akwesasne by boat for the most part this past summer. Friendships were renewed as we traveled together and shared the experience of being on the water again. Food was shared, jokes were told, as well as stories about our adventures off of the island to shop, to visit family and friends in the other districts, or to attend medical appointments. It was fun to reconnect and to learn from each other.

Our culture prevailed as we again helped each other by keeping the motivation up and just being there when the times were tough. Sitting by the campfire, telling stories, singing and drumming. discussing politics on the local, national and international levels helped us get through the nights.

The early morning tobacco burning was important and we rejuvenated ourselves by thanking the creator for all things. We are but a tiny part of creation and we need to work together to maintain ourselves as a people.

Akwesasne let us not forget what the lessons were that each and everyone of us has learned through this long hot summer with the temporary closure of the port of entry at Kawennoke. Stay strong. We have gone through this for a reason. We need each other to complete our cycle of life and to lay a strong foundation for the future seven generations.

Family and friends have come to support each other during times of sorrow. Let us not forget each other during the good times. Let us work together so that we may remain strong and united in our struggles as Onkwehonwe in the year 2010.