first light of the day: a poem for the post partum

Abstract

This poem is a personal and intimate piece reflecting my own postpartum experiences and the battles between hope and fear as a new mother. I draw from my own teachings and experiences as a Michif mother and claim my own ancestral and future allegiance to red river nationhood through the guidance, teachings and provisions of the Buffalo. It delves into the struggles and triumphs faced in the early days of motherhood, intertwining personal narrative with cultural ceremony to illuminate the resilience embedded within our lineage. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt reflection, the poem seeks to resonate with the collective spirit of motherhood, honoring both the trials and the profound joys inherent in this transformative journey.