Elgin Community College held an event for Native American Heritage Month. “Stories are Medicine” was hosted by Susan Ka’iulani Stanton. Ka’iulani Stanton shared her experiences on being Native American through stories. She showcased the work that she has created to the audience. The event attracted approximately 34 people, students and faculty alike. I decided to sit in the first row so I can get a better view of the presenter. 

During the event, Ka’iulani Stanton tells us to close our eyes and picture a scenario. She told the audience pretend to walk out of the ECC building, cross the road on the campus, walk through the bridge and stop at an open area. Envisioning this painted an illustration in my mind. A wave of serenity came over me, like I was meditating. Once I opened my eyes, I felt much more relaxed but my eyes did water a little bit which happens sometimes. Ka’iulani Stanton told us about the work that she did. For example, she told us that she was part of a protest where she wants the North Dakota pipelines to be protected. 

I learned new things while attending the event but the one lesson that caught my attention is crying means you’re healing. I didn’t know that crying is a healing process because it means that you’re recovering from a bad situation and moving on to better things. In the past, I used to cry a lot because I would feel sad or feeling pressured. The event was amazing because I got to learn more about Ka’iulani Stanton and her work but also experienced a little bit of spirituality. Once the event was finished, I asked her a question: ‘What is the meaning of life from her perspective?’

Ka’iulani Stanton took a little bit longer to answer but she said “Life is like a hands on clock.” I can relate to her answer because there are times where life goes a little bit faster on some days. Ka’iulani Stanton did a good job answering my question in a respectful manner. 

Overall, the event was amazing because I got to hear Ka’iulani Stanton spreading her knowledge to the audience and also displaying some of her objects that she brings. Also, I sat in the best seat in the front row. I hope ECC has events that involve spirituality moving forward.