
Peter Notsowhite's Story
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Available on YouTube HERE.
Season 5, Episode 5
Rodbuster, Peter White (aka Peter Notsowhite) tells us his story of healing through culture.
Peter summarizes of series of heartbreaking tragedies in his early years, all related to inter-generational trauma of Indigenous peoples on Turtle Island (North America). Like many of our guests, Peter dropped out of school early when he got an opportunity to work in the trades. Alcohol use came hand in hand with the trades, and like most of our guests, Peter felt 'normal' for this first time in his life with alcohol. Also like many of our guests, Peter stopped being able to show up for work when the alcohol use became prolific.
The sharp turn in Peter's story, however, arrives when after a dry spell in the oil fields, Peter tried to return to drinking but could no longer continue. The taste and the rituals suddenly just felt wrong to him. Peter stopped drinking cold turkey. Rather than just living a sober life, Peter grew his spirit through the spirituality of his culture. About the same time, Peter discovered he had cancer. He faced all these challenges with his spirituality, and grew strong, well, and resilient in the middle of it. Peter began attending Powwows and began to learn traditional dance in all his regalia.
Peter is now a well known and respected traditional dancer across Turtle Island. Trevor and Peter discuss the importance and focus of treating the body like an athlete would; with nutrition, rest, challenge and training. Peter's recovery is fed by a combination of respect for all things, and knowing that everything happens for a reason. Check out Peter on IG @peternotsowhite
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