I learned the truth as I listened and felt the Pain, fear, loneliness, anger, shame and witnessed the tears. At first I was angry at how people who were supposed to be working for the Creator, could treat children so badly. Then the strength of our people became clear and so did the purpose of this book. As I heard the words, "I was not going to let them get to me," I was reminded that a child's mind is powerful and that inner sanctuary is what kept our people strong. Some carried the pain to their death, others, like the storytellers, released the pain by talking about their experiences. I understand it is not only those who attended residential school who suffered, it is also the grandparents and parents who had their children taken away. Although the memories were not always fond ones, even those who made it through without experiencing any abuse, missed out on the nurturing and love necessary for personal growth. I understand how some of our people are afraid to feel and have difficulty expressing love to their own children and grandchildren.

The bonds the school tried to break have made us stronger. The children, now adults, "know" and are closer because of it. To those storytellers who shared, we would like you to now that we heard you and hope that what you have shared will now be part of our history that will never be repeated. Kukstemc, Cherlyn Billy, Interviewer.