One Native Life

Wagamese reflects on how the sublime moments in life are akin to the first blush of dawn creeping over a mountain’s edge. The evolving hues of dawn, from pink to a vivid yellow, encapsulate the transformative experiences that frame the essence of Wagamese’s memoir, which he conceived in the serenity of early mornings by a lake nestled in the mountains above Kamloops, British Columbia. There, he found solace and a deep connection to his Ojibway heritage. Alongside his partner, Debra Powell, and his dog, Molly, Wagamese embraced the tranquility of a simpler, nature-bound life, starkly contrasting with their previous urban existences. This newfound peace sparked a journey of remembrance, wherein the land’s subtle whispers and the shifting light unveiled long-forgotten memories and insights. The book traces a life that oscillates between light and shadow, portraying the distinctiveness of his Indigenous life amid societal ignorance. The stories are a testimony to healing, empowerment, and the necessity of embracing a collective narrative of understanding and community. Through sharing these stories, Wagamese traverses a path toward healing, reflecting on the pivotal events that guided him back to peace and solidarity with his partner, beholding the beauty of the land they call home.