A Day of Rhythms and Reflection: Drum Making and Ceremony with Aline LaFlamme
On a crisp and golden autumn afternoon, as part of the White Rock Arts Festival Culture Crawl, our cozy space at One Love Refill + Fashion buzzed with the anticipation of a unique experience. We had the privilege of hosting Aline LaFlamme, an incredible Metis grandmother and a master of ceremonies.
Aline's journey through life has been a tapestry of wisdom and healing. She is also a pipe carrier, Sundancer, drum maker, singer, traditional healer, therapist, and workshop facilitator.
She is the founder and former Executive Director of the Aboriginal Front Door Society, nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s Downtown East Side. Aline is also a founding member of the Daughters of the Drum, a collective dedicated to the empowerment of women through drumming and traditional Indigenous practices.
Drum Making and Ceremony: A Spiritual Experience
The process of creating our own drums was a spiritual experience in itself. Aline led us through the art of crafting a drum, a traditional heartbeat to many Indigenous cultures. Under Aline's guidance, the moment felt like pure magic. Every step had a deeper meaning, from selecting the materials to crafting the intricate designs.
The drum-making process was a reminder of the beauty and importance of traditional crafts in our fast-paced world. It was a true privilege to learn from Aline and to create something that holds cultural and personal significance. Watching these drums take shape, each infused with the maker's energy, was awe-inspiring.
As the drums were completed, we gathered to awaken them with a heartwarming ceremony. Aline led us in a beautiful, spiritual journey that connected us to our drums, to the earth, and to each other. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of mindfulness and gratitude.
Our drum-making workshop and ceremony with Aline LaFlamme was more than just an event; it was a journey of self-discovery, culture, and unity. It left me with a heart full of gratitude and the knowledge that the beat of our drums is not just a sound but a connection to our past, our community, and our future.
As we wrapped up this unforgettable day of rhythm and reflection, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for what lies ahead. Hosting events like these is something that's dear to my heart, and I genuinely believe in the powerful impact they have on our lives and community. I'm committed to bringing more such meaningful experiences your way, so you don't want to miss out!
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Thank you, Aline, and thank you to all who joined us.
In every beat of the drum, in every story shared, we found a piece of ourselves.
With gratitude,
