Ellie Holicky

Water

• The water symbolizes healing.
• "As the rain fell again, the ground softened
• Cole dug with his fingers and brought mud up to smear onto his swollen neck and face. He smeared over his broken arm and onto his ripped open chest. ... The wet dirt smoothed Cole's burning skin. (90)

spirit bear

• The Spirit Bear symbolizes pride, dignity, and honor.
• ' "Off the coast of British Columbia, there is a special Black Bear called the Spirit Bear. It's pure and white and has pride, dignity, and honor. More than most people. " ' (18)

At.óow

• The at.óow symbolizes trust.
• ' " If you accept this at.óow from me, you must promise to care for it and someday pass it on to some one you trust." ' (19)

Ancestor rock

• The ancestor rock symbolizes Cole's ancestors.
• ' " Pretend that rock is your ancestors," said Edwin. " Climbing this hill is your life. With each step, you carry your ancestors with you, in your mind, in your heart, and in your soul." '

Anger Dance

• The anger dance symbolizes what anger taught Cole.
• 'Fists swollen and bleeding, Cole stopped suddenly. He caught his breath, feeling an overwhelming shame. In the middle of the night, he sank to his knees at the base of the tall cedar, his body shaking with sobs. "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!" he whispered.'