Sangha of Auspicious Companions

How Bringing an Indigenous Creation Story to Life Can Induce Awe

A Blackfoot creation story, Ani to pisi human spiderweb, passed down to Elder Roy Bear Chief, emphasizes interconnectedness and interrelatedness. To better understand it, 300 people at Mount Royal University in Canada joined together to enact a Human Spiderweb. People related what it was like to be in a shared experience: “the beating of the drums as we moved in unison, our motions guided each other to make the web happen.” “I felt like I was part of something important and impactful. I felt like I mattered in some way.” Participants described emotions such as awe, tearing up and eyes widening, feeling inspiration, happiness, fulfillment, amazement, powerful connection, collective effervescence, and a sense of social belonging they continued to savor. They hope it will be an annual event, and encourage others to “demonstrate their commitment to the inclusion of Indigenous histories, cultures, languages, and knowledge.”

Be The Change

Open your heart to an indigenous ceremonial experience in your community. Feel the connection.