This mural represents the strength that we need to pursue our goals and obtain our dreams and, in the end, to have a balanced life. Each element of the painting represents an aspect in life that is needed to prepare us to obtain these dreams or goals.

The tree represents growth. A tree starts out as a single seed which could be thought as a start of a small dream or a goal and as you progress in life this dream or goal grows and grows into a beautiful tree. The tree has different branches and leaves which could be thought as separate dreams but they all come together as one tree or one life.

Bear in Ojibwe is makwa and it represents bravery, we all need this bravery to have the strength to obtain our dreams. The bear shows us how to live a balanced life with rest, survival and play.

The feather in Ojibwe is meegwin which is similar meekina meaning road or path. We all have a path to follow but with different dreams or goals these paths are not the same for everyone. Everyone has their own path to follow. The feather symbolizes trust, honour, strength, wisdom and freedom. It is said that the feather is a gift from the sky.

Artist: Jeanette Ladd