The Roar of the Falls: My Journey with Kaya

When Kaya comes back from fetching wood, her arms full and her cheeks pink from the evening air, I look at her familiar face and see that Kautsa is right. Kaya is my true friend. Slowly, I tell her that something is wrong. I shouldn’t have traded away my bracelet. It’s too special to me. It reminds me of home, and I never should have let it go so easily. I untie the necklace around my neck. Can we trade back?

Immediately, Kaya replies yes, without a moment’s hesitation. The bracelet would’ve reminded her of our friendship, but no matter, she’ll never forget me! Kaya slips the bracelet back onto my wrist, and I take a deep breath, relief washing over me.

I tell Kaya one last thing: it’s time for me to go home. I’m grateful for Kaya’s help, and I won’t forget what I learned from her. Kaya squeezes my hand, and I squeeze hers back.

I turn to Kautsa. I want to give her something to thank her for her help today, though I have so little to offer compared to all she’s given me. Then, I remember the pink stone in my pouch. I take it out and hand it to Kautsa. She turns it over in her hand slowly, studying it in the firelight. She tells me that I am quiet, but strong.

I had never thought of myself as strong before, always assuming strength meant being loud or having certainty. But Kautsa is right. I have become stronger here in Kaya’s world, and I carry that feeling with me now.

Kaya stands up to escort me to the river. But Kautsa says, with a shine in her eye, that I’m ready to go home on my own. I slip out of the tepee and down the familiar path, the fire’s warmth fading behind me. When I am safely hidden from view, I trace the shell in the bracelet with my fingertip.

Suddenly, I’m back in my bedroom, wearing my PJs and mouse slippers. I’m so relieved to be home again. As I climb into my bed and fall against the pillows, my heart is heavy. I’ve traded one world for another. I’m glad to be home, but I miss Kaya. But I realize that I didn’t leave her behind entirely. I brought back everything I learned from her: trusting elders, taking care of one another, and respecting the earth. I can do all these things at home and at school.

The next day, I hurry to catch up to Ms. Wallace. I ask if we can talk. Her brown eyes remind me of Kautsa’s, wise and kind. I tell her I need some advice about my group…