My Little Numbered Shoes
- Nishnawbe Aski Nation, 2005 -
I had a difficult time getting used to the daily routines when I first attended residential school. At home we did not follow a routine. At residential school, every aspect of our life was controlled by some routine. Everything was so regimented. I got up at seven o’clock in the morning. I got out of bed, went to the washroom, washed my face and hands and got dressed. I would get my numbered clothing out of my little closet, put them on and then put on my little numbered shoes. I lined up with the other students for breakfast, after which, I attended classes and did my chores. After school I did homework until suppertime. After supper, if I did not have any homework I could go outside. I brushed my teeth, washed up and had to be changed into my pajamas and be ready to go to bed by 9:00pm. At bed time I had to kneel, as did the other boys, and say my prayers.
