Learning Opportunities Everywhere!

I found a school that serves as an example to all the others. Blackfeet Community College, or BCC, as it is known, has a science and math building so hi-tech and energy-conserving, that it is only a matter of time before every other school in America catches on and realizes what a “green” school should look like – and this is it.

Vicky and I went to the Eagle Shield Care Center. We prepared lunch for the elderly residents and cleaned up afterwards. I’ll admit it’s been a while since I last volunteered, but the warmth you receive from helping other people is a feeling you cannot get from anywhere else.

Candace said that she did not do much, because she wasn’t asked, but she made sure the books were in order and straightened in the school library. Ken and Alex cleared stones. Stephanie and Grandma checked out donated books before the books could be put on the shelf.

The best part was the storytelling by Bob Tailfeathers and Smokey. Bob told us the history of the school, personal stories, and about Blackfeet tribal culture. Best of all was the artwork he made. I mean, where else would you find porcupine quill jewelry! Smokey showed us what can only be called the 21st century teepee with steel rims and metal vents to release the smoke. The only natural elements were the plants used to burn in ritual prayer.

All in all, it was a day to learn, help others, and discover that sometimes libraries have their own version of the Dewey Decimal System.
-Samantha

"To write a message that reflects everyone, or connect with each person seems to be a wee bit difficult for me. The only words that pop into my head are from POTC when Cpl. Jack Sparrow is on Rumrunners Island with Elizabeth, laugh out loud. Jack tells Elizabeth about his love and reasons for loving the Black Pearl. “The pearl”, says he “is more than sails, and wood, and ropes. What the Pearl is: is Freedom.” That Freedom to me is a connection and love of waves, adventures, sunsets, and sunrises. A connection with “something” greater than yourself, whether it be with the waters, mountains, a rock picked up, a thirsty dog or a brown skinned dark eyed smiling inside child. To connect is to love and to love is freedom."