I had always dreamed, but could not envision fully- the process
of what it would take to both write a novel and also to see it be in print.
Attached to the bindings of “Under the Sitka Tree,” are the
countless names of those, who helped me along the way to fulfill my promise
to my daughter, Shayla.
One of the greatest feats for me to accomplish, is to recall with
my poor memory, all of those who welcomed me into their homes, fed me in my
times of displacement and nourished my weary soul.
My book contains both an introduction and acknowledgements.
When I first began, I needed several pages to write the names of those, who
also opened their hearts, to me.
I have made the decision, to leave the gratitude to be found,
among the pages of my book.
***
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| ~ Nelson Mandela |
Throughout the journey of writing a book that historically spans generations and decades, I learned as a Canadian author, many heartbreaking realities about our country.
Yet in my research, I also heard real life accounts, about those whose blood were shed for us- in Canada- to be free. The individuals who fought in wars, included a multitude of various cultures, such as African- Americans and First Nations. In exploring our Canadian history, I understood that what I had found in the latest books of libraries and archives I visited; were things I was never taught, in my own school studies.
It made me realize, there are parts of our countries roots, which have been severed. That within our maple leaf, there is a disconnect that remains within our 'North, Strong and Free' - evident within our present discord.
In my novel, I strive to create a multitude of characters, who each encompass a part of our sordid past. It was equally important, in my storyline, to show woman of strength and purpose. Rather than be viewed as victims, I wrote about their survivorship. Through various topics that include racism, faith, cancer and abuse, each character is bound to something they need to overcome. Their paths see them travel difficult routes, where they find themselves claiming or abandoning something, so as to attain what their heart desires.
The reflection of who I am as a writer, is bound within the pages of what it means to be a proud Canadian and how we are trying to come to terms, with the forced assimilation of our past.
In Under the Sitka Tree, certain characters are seeking in their lives something they fear has been lost. However, when the truth is discovered, it comes at a cost.
Upon meeting and speaking with several Residential School survivors, the fictitious characters in my book, came to life. As I delved into creating back stories, I discovered in all that was sacrificed, had an impact on my own generation (within my Caucasian family). I realized I needed to unfasten from me, a belief system, where superiority had taken root within my own families past.
Being different my whole life, had entrenched in me a feeling
of worthlessness and a deep-rooted scar of being unloved. Much like Sylvia Plath and Virginia Woolf , I have roots in my depressive-anxiety disorder. Thus, my gift of creativity, has been full of blessings. Also the self-discovery over my descriptive style of writing, ignites my passion, for the fusion of the written word.
Among the pages of my novel, there are filaments of who I am, attributes that saturate those chosen to be part of my book.
It means "I hope" and is part of the Latin proverb: Dum Spiro Spero (While I breathe, I Hope.) Therefore, the creation of a (fictitious) town was established.
A community of hope ~ where unity can be found amongst those
who do not see colour or labels, nor division of cultural.
The core of my novel, is about what happens when we claims things, which don’t belong to us. It delves into what happens- when we do not stand up for others. My book also has tendrils of deception, where some characters are willing to risk it all, for things that have severe consequences. The important value of time- both past and present- is seen through those who respect it and those who misuse it.
It’s not what time steals, it’s what it leaves behind…things
you can’t forget. ~ Charlize Theron
The true revelation of Under the Sitka Tree, is the promise made over twenty years ago, to my daughter Shayla who passed away….is that a promise made is a promise kept.
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| Baby Shae-Rae Dawn |
I have never made claim that this was a solo venture, as it
would not be even fathomable to think of where I would be, had not the kindness
of others touched my life.
To those who were faithful in your beliefs that I could and would get my book published, I sincerely thank you, for beyond the measure of kindness…each of you gifted me Hope.
This dream of mine, would not be possible without the faith that I have and the truth in knowing that I am loved and accepted, is a pure blessing from God. Only He knows the infinite number of hours I have devoted to my book. Along the way, I remained humbled by all was taught and yet still stumbled.
It was when I as the author, let God hold the pen in writing the story of my life, was I able to understand the importance of doing so.
When I made another poor decision or wrapped myself up in someone I thought cared for me; Jesus is a reminder of the ultimate price paid on the cross for my sins and his love for me- no matter what.
Under the Sitka Tree, reminds me that out of the lowest moments in my life, I had a continual companion in the words… that were spilled forward onto the pages. No matter what, I could see the light and that the fractures along my own route, actually illuminated the darkness…in order for me, to find my way.
By TL Alton
