From the beginning of time, stories have been an integral part of our humanity.

They have been a way to pass on knowledge, to understand the passing of time and seasons, to feed the soul, for pure enjoyment and so much more

Stories can be told in so many ways — in dance, in artwork, in song, in oral storytelling and in the putting of pen to paper.

Words can conjure up achingly beautiful images, stimulate our imagination, allow us to laugh — even take us to challenging places.

Sometimes the written word can transport the reader to another dimension, allowing them to see things from a different point of view.

Sometimes this includes touching the reader’s heart, allowing them to ‘hear’ things they hadn’t heard before, to make an emotional connection, allowing a deeper understanding.

This is the power of words.

But also the power of the writing.

When Year 9 student Ava-Jae was asked to write something for the Notre Dame College Reconciliation Week assembly, it was more than just putting words on paper.

The young Yorta Yorta woman wanted to tell a story — as her ancestors had been doing since time immemorial.

A story of place, of belonging, of identity, of pride.

“I wanted to put my heart into it,” Ava-Jae explained.

As she started, and the words started to form on the page, Ava-Jae thought of her nan — a strong presence.

“For me, I can write it all on paper,” she said.

“[Writing] just feels magic. Like everything’s lifting.”

Words crafted to tell a powerful story.

A poem, singing a story of deep belonging, of being part of something so much bigger than oneself.

Of a deep connection to place, where everything — people, animals, trees, the entire landscape — is intricately linked.

Of strength, resilience and determination.

Maybe Ava-Jae’s words will transport you to another place, to see the world a little differently.

To hear the whisper of “the language of the trees, the lessons whispered in the breeze”.

To touch your heart, to allow it to open to a different understanding.

So, take the time to absorb the words, the message and the images created in your mind.

It means knowing where I stand,

Feet grounded deep in ancient land.

It means the songs that shape the skies,

The Dreaming stories, old and wise.

It means the river knows my name,

The dust, the winds, they speak the same.

It means the strength that will not fall,

The pride of carrying it all.

It means the language of the trees,

The lessons whispered in the breeze.

It means connection blood and bone,

A story bigger than my own.

It means respect for every life,

For land, for spirit, through all strife.

It means the right to still be heard,

To honour every ancient word.

It means survival, pure and strong,

Through every silence, every wrong.

It means resilience in my soul,

A burning fire that makes me whole.

It means my ancestors walk with me,

Their hopes, their strengths, my legacy.

It means the past, the future, the song,

It means I know where I belong.

It means I’m part of something more,

A truth that time cannot ignore.

It means, no matter where I go,

My Culture lives in all I know.

Such powerful words.

Words that reverberate with deep connection to Country, identity, pride, strength.

The presentation of Ava-Jae’s words in the image above was strengthened by the evocative artwork of fellow Notre Dame student Jade Davison.

Jade’s marks are more than merely lines on a page.

They also tell a story — a story of challenges, of choices, of healing, of courage and resilience.

Complementary stories, complementary themes.

Jade’s interpretive words help us to delve deeper into the images she has so carefully put together.

At the heart of the piece is a young girl, representing how trauma can deeply affect individuals.

The intricate patterns on her skin reflect the lasting imprint of trauma — its repetitive nature, and how it stays with you throughout your journey.

Surrounding her is a protective bubble, symbolising the isolating cycle that trauma can create, keeping you trapped within its boundaries.

Beyond this bubble are Meeting Places, symbolising the support of family and friends who exist outside the trauma, offering connection and guidance.

Just beyond them flows a river — its strong currents represent the challenges and resistance faced when trying to break free from trauma’s grip.

The snake in the painting is a powerful symbol of transformation and healing.

As it sheds its skin, it signifies renewal, growth and the beginning of a new journey.

The two pathways that branch from the snake symbolise the choices we face in healing — different directions, each with their own challenges and possibilities, leading towards a future shaped by resilience and recovery.

So as you read Ava-Jae’s words and take in Jade’s artwork and her accompanying words, open your heart to their combined story.

And reflect on the messages that you take away from these two very talented young women.

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Monday, 21st August 2023

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