”How do you feed the stars?” This was a question posed to us this morning. How DO you feed the stars? I didn’t even realize the stars were something that needed to be fed. I guess that’s what comes from cultural differences, especially in comparison to one with such an emphasis on the natural world.
New Zealand is unique in that its native Māori culture is making a comeback in day-to-day life. The culture is incredibly accepting in that people who aren’t even Māori by blood but connect with Māori beliefs may identify as such. In most cases, native cultures have been almost wholly suppressed by colonialism, and the Māori culture was threatened by European influence, but its presence is clearly growing. There are Māori words below the English on school buildings, work buildings, road-side stops, and other common places. For example, at school, the building will be called “The Place of Wellbeing” (a name which itself is Māori in nature) and be followed by “Te Whare Hauora.” Māori language is compulsory to learn in a good amount of primary schools, and their songs, dances, and practices are being taught as well. Yesterday, we went to a high school (called “college” here) where the students performed a Māori song and we, in return, sang one back, a short song that we had learned early on. We then proceeded to partake in a practice called the hongi, which is the sharing of breath. This involves pressing your forehead and nose against another and essentially breathing in the other’s breath, creating a connection and signifying acceptance and welcome. It was really cool.
We also got to visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds where the Māori people signed a treaty with Great Britain. There, we partook in a wero, or a challenge. This involves the Māori laying down a leaf on the ground as a way to understand our intentions. If we pick it up, peace is signified. However, if we don’t, that means we have come to fight. We got to elect someone in our group to act as “chief” and pick up the leaf. Once doing so, the Māori people performed lighthearted songs and dances. Despite who is performing these songs (adults, students, anyone), I am always in such awe. They have a beautiful sound, and to be welcomed into someone else’s culture so openly and deeply is an incredible honor.
What I love the most about all of this is that I’m not experiencing culture from New Zealand’s history; I’m experiencing its present. And if you were still curious, stars are fed with warm, steamy food that sends up smoke, finding its way to the gods in the sky. If you’re up tonight, take a look up. Sometimes we forget what’s all around us.