Welcome to the website of the Maniwaki Indigenous Métis Community. When you click on the Culture and Spirituality tab, you have entered the area entrusted to me. My name is Claude Jean. I am Indigenous Métis and have been on the path of spirituality since my early childhood. The Maniwaki community named me Sage, despite my reluctance to use a title that could contribute to the spread of the disease of pride. I have tried, by many means, to change this name and also that of shaman (which does not correspond at all to any name given to this type of person in the history of our ancestors from Turtle Island, that is, North America). I have therefore agreed to fulfill this role despite these dangers and the exposure this situation places me in the face of criticism, protest, and all its attendant controversies.

If we delve into our history and that of our Indigenous ancestors, my personal path closely resembles that of the medicine man, that is, a servant of his community who ensures the well-being, safety, and connection with the world of ancestors, spirits, and the creator. The medicine man is a healer and a caregiver who avoids taking on the role of political leader, role model, or leader. He is a servant. Furthermore, as a tool of service to the community or to anyone in need, I carry a sacred pipe (sometimes, like many of my fellow pipe-carriers, I realize that I am more moved by the pipe than the bearer of it). This spiritual instrument serves to transmit the prayers we carry to the creator, the universe, and the spirits around us, in the manner of our Indigenous ancestors. The sacred pipe was given by the White Buffalo Woman to the men so that they could discover a path of communication with the creator and the spirits.

My role and interests are very well-placed, and it is with this in mind that I carry out my work as a Métis. I facilitate Westerners' understanding of the Indigenous world and Indigenous people's understanding of the Western world. In my opinion, this is the contemporary version of the Métis translator from ancient times. Since we come from an oral tradition and I want to remain connected to this reality, I have decided to answer your questions orally. So, when you ask me a question and the answer is ready, you just have to click on the "answer" tab and you will receive that answer verbally. Please note, however, that I work full-time as a school guidance counselor. I have little time to myself, and the answers to your questions will be provided as quickly as possible.

Finally, you will find announcements of upcoming events in our community in the spirituality and culture tabs. You are all welcome to each of these activities, whether you are a member or not. You will have the opportunity to learn about some of the realities of the Indigenous world and the Métis people, and we will thus have the opportunity to enrich ourselves with your presence. Claude Jean The Healing Eyes of the Bear Please note that I will only respond to people who have identified themselves when sending their question. For example, the email will contain the name identification, i.e., your real name. You will understand that I remain cautious online and, above all, that I want to avoid all forms of abuse and ensure that my work is not useless and that it accurately corresponds to the real needs of the people asking for help.