Do or do not.
There is no try.

So says Yoda, my favourite Jedi Master. Why Yoda, you may ask? Ok, besides being a BIG Star Wars fan, there is a lot we can take from this. The way I look at it, the message is to do our best in whatever we set our mind to. There is value in attempting something, however our “try” cannot be half-hearted – we must remain committed to see it through. By trying something that does not have our full consideration, we are most likely to fail. Therefore, to reach our goals, we must do.

The above thought relates this issue’s theme of “Catching Dreams.” At the university, an ambitious plan is in the works to improve educational opportunities for Aboriginal people. This is necessary for our communities, and its members, to grow. It is an ambitious dream, but one that needs a full commitment for it to be realized. If not, many doors will remain closed. We need to start with a dream and do whatever it takes to make it a reality. We need to be active, willing to take some (calculated) risks and realize that it will take time. There is no room for “should’ve, could’ve, or might”, as according to Yoda, this is the meaning of try.

Do your best. If you do not succeed at first, learn from it.
But, if you succeed… just think of the possibilities.

This issue is dedicated to Keren Rice whose commitment to First Nations House, Aboriginal Studies, and the Centre for Aboriginal Initiatives has truly emanated the Seven Grandfather/Grandmother teachings.

Love, Respect, Bravery,
Honesty, Humility, Truth and Wisdom

Chi Meegwetch for your inspiration and dedicated work.