In the aftermath of deep, institutional and colonial maltreatments, the First Nations in both Australia and America are working through the need for reconciliation on many fronts.
Reconciliation is that deep-seated dilemma in every broken relationship, but one of our most emotional challenges. Neither a prince nor a pauper is immune to such challenges. The storm comes unexpectedly, sometimes slowly and subtly. And most of us are often quite unprepared for the shape torn relationships can take.
East, West, North or South, the dilemma of reconciliation is ever the same. Countries fall over each other to gain stability for their own and ‘peace talks’ abound where the tears are threatening to erupt in violence.
Reconciliation is far too difficult a bridge to cross in our own strength, especially when there have been deep offences and hurts. Words from Graham Kendrick’s song, ‘The Servant King’ come to mind as we consider the ultimate act of reconciliation –
'Hands that flung stars into space
To cruel nails surrendered'.
Conceding to grievances held by both sides and surrendering ourselves, for the good of the bigger picture, is pivotal – yet so difficult and often impossible, especially, in the political arena.
In the rapidly developed western nations, the First Nations often remain the ‘unseen’ and ‘secondary’ groups of people. Various bodies like the 1‘Common Grace’ of Australia strive to reconcile their past with the present and future growing around them, at a furious pace.
‘This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is ‘50 Years of Deadly’. In Aboriginal communities, deadly is a term of high praise. It describes something or someone as excellent, inspiring, strong, and worthy of celebration. More than a compliment, it is a language of resilience and pride that honours the gifts, leadership, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.’
Naidoc Week 2026 https://www.naidoc.org.au/
Today we pay tribute and honour all First Nations for their drive to reconcile the wrongs of the past with the hope of future aspirations – a mammoth task, but one worth striving after.
The Ladies Loop 