The Loon's Necklace – told by Anishinaabemowin teacher Kenny Pheasant.
TRANSCRIPT:
Many winters ago, a bling man lived by the forest, his family was gone to the next village to trade. He took his rattle and prayed to the creator; how can I get my sight back he said.
The Creator told him to go see the loon, Maang by the marsh and said he will help you. So later that day he went to the marsh and sat down with his drum Adewegan and sang a song, Giingamaa. It had just rained earlier so everything smelled fresh and it was a beautiful day. Giimnagiizhgat.
Then he sat and listened, then he heard the loon call to him and said, what is it that you want? I wish to see again said the old man. Then the loon said grab a hold of my wings and dive under the water with me. The old man did as he was told and when they came up the loon asked Can you see?
No answered the old man, not like I should, then dive with me again said the loon. So, he did, then when they came up the old man said I can see, Nwaab, Nwaab, Giikidaa.
Thank you, Loon Miigwech, Maang he said. Then he took his shell necklace out and place it on the back of the loon and around his neck. Maang was very happy that he got a shell necklace. The old man went home and told his family what had happened that day.