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What a beautiful summer it was to come together and heal in such a meaningful way at several park locations here in the North Central area of Regina. I was one of the people who came seeking a blessing, healing, and unity with others. Attending the healing drum was a deeply moving and enlightening experience. It was more than just an event. It was a sacred moment of learning, reflection, and connection. Hosted by Phyllis Littletent and her group, the gathering brought together community members from diverse backgrounds to share in Indigenous traditions, music, and teachings. They moved from one park to another, offering healing through the drum. I joined them with gratitude, my heart full of joy, encouragement, and respect.
The drummers beat their drums and sang at the same time. It wasn’t just music—it was a heartbeat, a spiritual current that seemed to tie everyone together. I learned that in many Indigenous cultures, the drum is not just an instrument but a sacred object, representing the heartbeat of Mother Earth. Each beat carries intention, prayer, and ancestral memory. As we gathered in a circle, I could feel the energy of the drum echoing through the ground beneath us.
Listening to the drum made me feel connected to Mother Earth and to the people around me. I felt peace in both my mind and body.
I learned not just through listening, but through observing, the way they moved with intention, how they respected each one of us, and how they spoke with care. There was a strong sense of belonging and mutual responsibility—a kind of community that many people long for but rarely find. The event wasn’t just about cultural sharing—it was about spiritual connection, healing old wounds, and building bridges of understanding. One of the most powerful moments was when Phyllis invited us to join the
group in a shared rhythm. She encouraged us to stand up and dance together in one circle, especially those of us who felt shy. I will never forget that moment of unity—different hands, different histories, different colors—beating together as one. It will stay with me forever. I don’t know how many rounds we danced. As I moved my feet to the rhythm of the heartbeat, I felt as though the whole universe danced with me. This experience taught me that learning from Indigenous communities requires humility, openness, and deep listening. It’s not about taking knowledge, but about receiving it with gratitude and responsibility. The stories, songs, and teachings I encountered reminded me of the strength, resilience, and wisdom of First Nations people and how much I still have to learn from them. One of the teachings that struck me most deeply was the idea of healing not as a quick fix, but as a lifelong journey, one rooted in community, ceremony, and respect for the land and all living beings.
In the end, attending the Healing Drum gathering wasn’t just a cultural experience, it was a spiritual one. I left with a renewed sense of peace and a deeper appreciation for the land, and the people. It was truly a blessing to be part of it, and I carry that blessing with me still.
Thuong Thi Truong, RNDM
