Hadley Byrgesen

My Life
Peechee

Dear friends,
Hi, I’m Peechee. I live in the Quebec Region and I am a Cree.
My name means mountain lion. A lot of my friends were named Peechee
as well, because we had enough food to eat that year, because of all the
mountain lions we killed. That year I was born, the whole village had a full belly
every night.
Every morning I wake up and start a fire to warm my parents while they're
still asleep. Today is special because today is the Sun Dance. The Sundance is a
sacred ceremony for people to honour the Sun. Participants show bravery by
overcoming pain.
I put on my best outfit. A long leather buffalo dress, with porcupine quills
decorating the bottom. My mother used lace to cinch up my waist for this special
occasion.
I'm so excited! I'm finally at the Sundance. The music started up and we
danced. It takes a few hours before we are done and everyone gets tired. Me,
mother, and father finally go to pray and worship.
I am feeling so well. My feelings are mixed so much. I’m happy, but sad
that it’s over.
It's been a long day, thanks for listening.

Peechee