The day was off to a great start with crisp fresh air and the beautiful scenery of Skidegate. Overnight, National Geographic Sea Bird crossed the Hecate Strait, positioning the ship to the very special archipelago of Haida Gwaii. During Tessa’s morning class, we set our intentions for the day. We embraced the lesson that no matter what happens in life, we have the choice to determine our actions and reactions. Challenges change us, and whether it is for the better or worse is our choice. We felt confident that the day was going to be wonderful. With a sense of joy in our heart and gratitude as our attitude, we were ready for the day’s adventures.
4/24/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Old Massett, Haida Gwaii
Back to Daajing Giids! After an incredible day in SGang Gwaay visiting an ancestral village with still-standing historic totem poles, our Haida hosts thought it appropriate to bring us to Old Massett – and what a joy it was! This remarkable township is home to two master carvers responsible for sharing their culture far and wide. Jim Hart showed us his home studio where we got to meet his mother and his son. Together, Jim and his son shared the stories of the three totem poles outside of their home, each with a unique story regarding close family members. Another master carver some 5 minutes down the road, Christian White, beckoned us into his carving shed where he and his apprentices were actively shaping a canoe out of red cedar. Christian and Jim honor their ancestors’ legacies by training young Haida as carvers, each having several apprentices. In both workshops, the smell of newly carved cedar brought a sense of purpose and hard work; wood shavings danced in the air like the Haida dancers would just after lunch today. It was another wonderful day of sharing, dancing, singing, and laughing.