| 30 September 2010
Ever since the conception of InJoy Magazine I have wanted to create a section called Indigenous Matters : at the heart of our culture.
In two previous issues Indigenous matters have surfaced; Talk Softly Listen Well, an interview with Charles Harold Mason was featured in the 9th edition and the beautiful writing of Miriam Rose Ungenmeer, Dadirri, was shared in issue 4—and also in this edition, see page 5.
There is a good reason I have chosen to print Dadirri again, apart from the fact that I have remained deeply touched by it since I was a student at Gnibi Indigenous School, Southern Cross University in Lismore.
The reason to print Dadirri again in this edition is because the feature for this issue was to be a three-page article sharing story, insights and art from a Bunjalung man, dancer, artist. Close to deadline it became apparent that... never mind, not this now... and I had to wonder if we are really ready to listen. Spirit will bring the right time, I feel it in my bones.
Indigenous stories and authenticated articles will come through, and my motivation to support Indigenous matters through InJoy Magazine is so all peoples living on Australia may recognise the magical dreatime spirit that belongs to this sacred land we call home.
Are we ready? Can we listen in a new way, see the language of this land, understand through feeling song and sharing story, through being a community, through listening to our Indigenous peoples and our children and our elders before they pass away, before the stories are lost.
Development persistently wraps itself around Byron Bay’s CBD and for me the soul of this place seems to be hiding behind all the neon lights and sale signs. Unfortunately locals and national media have taken certain incidences and turned them into political positions that perceive this little coastal town’s downfall while rents have risen and local businesses suffer.
The nature of Byron Bay is always magical and many people here are especially spirited—most come for the difference; to experience something new, to grow or change or release… some simply want to let go and relax into life with auspicious quality.
... the surf rolls onto the sand that reaches up to touch the land. Trees speak their stories still and the mountains whisper through each sunset as it fades away. Cycles turn time and processing is a popular pastime in Byron. Creativity is rich and people are open, consciousness expands here... and the list goes on...
Living here for the last twenty years I have seen many changes and I watch the beauty survive all the changes. I wish I had been here even earlier when times were different again, and I am glad I am living here now.
There are so many wonder-full things about Byron if you look in the right places. Remember that what you focus on grows—and please shop locally!!!
all the very best, Bhadrena :)
