"Having lived in the city for the past 19 years I was keen to know more about and learn from our First Nations people and their connection to Country. On the day we were welcomed onto Country by Henry Fourmile. I had not experienced a Welcome to Country before and it was a privilege. Henry's connection to Country was evident and he made us feel safe and welcomed. We listened to Henry, Susan and Karen Reys speak about deep listening and their experiences. It was very emotional to hear them speak so openly and honestly. I elected to guided meditation with Karen as it is something outside my comfort zone and would have felt more relaxed taking part in the walk on the esplanade. I am glad I took the risk as the experience was very special. Karen spoke to us about her experience as a First Nations person growing up and how she felt. She invited us to read historical records of her family that were held under the protection acts. The communication was confronting as the language used to describe Karen's family member was difficult to read - even more so reading the dates only as far back as the 1930s - not so long ago. Our experience concluded with a guided meditation where Karen invited us on a journey to her Country. Karen's voice and her story drew me in and I found myself deeply engaged in meditation. I did not expect this. Karen made me feel safe and enabled me to let go and be present. I am deeply thankful to Henry, Karen and Susan for sharing their stories with us and for being so open and welcoming."
– Emma, Catholic Education Services, The Story of Deep Listening on Country, Cairns 2022
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