February 26 OWL Circle: Colleen Choi

A combined gathering of OWL Global Wisdom Circle and Being American Now

On the Front Lines at Standing Rock
Artist and social activist Colleen Choi spent two months with the indigenous peoples who were defending their water, and their way of life, at Standing Rock. What can we learn from her story about resisting ignorance, fear, greed, and hatred — with light, courage, selfless service, and love — and about American values — at this moment in history?

My time at Standing Rock will be something I remember in my heart for the rest of my life. …The pattern of violence will continue for greed and power … until we, the people, unite and take a stand. We cannot fight fire with fire. We stand in peace. We stand in love. We stand in prayer. We stand as One.
	Someone told me my first day at Standing Rock, “You’ll be surprised at how your body adapts.” This is true. I’ve been at camp for almost 3 weeks now and I can’t remember the last shower I had, or the last time I brushed my teeth, or washed my hands, or taken off my thermals. I forget the days, the hours, the seconds.

What I remember are the hearts… I remember how abundant I feel because of all of the generous donations of love that are supporting our camp. Almost everything I’m wearing now is because someone gifted it to me….

Our world can be based on love and respect. Our world can be about inclusion instead of exclusion. Our world can run on heart-fuel. I have so much gratitude for the opportunity to be here right now. I thank the [indigenous peoples] for showing us the way.

Part 1 — Colleen Choi: Gandhi Ashram to Standing Rock

Part 2 — Bringing the lessons back into daily life

Part 3 — Additional reflections