The Paradox of Progress
Living in the shadow of the Navajo Generating Station was perhaps one of life's greatest ironies. Here we were, watching this massive power plant operate for over 45 years, yet our grandmothers never saw electricity or running water in their homes. "We never got anything from the generating station," I explain to visitors, remembering my mother's hogan lit only by lantern light, even though the plant's bright lights illuminated her yard at night.The challenges we face today are different but equally complex. Climate change and drought have transformed our landscape. Places where we once found abundant springs and vegetation for our livestock are now increasingly arid. The land that sustained hundreds of sheep now struggles to support even a small herd.
Education and Adaptation: Preparing for the Future
My daughter Nicole's journey exemplifies our family's commitment to education and adaptation. After working at IBM and traveling across Texas and other states, she returned home not just to help run our tour business, but to ensure her children understand both their heritage and the importance of education.
"I want my boys to have options," Nicole explains, discussing how her oldest son is pursuing both his high school diploma and a bachelor's degree in computer science simultaneously. She's creating opportunities for her children to experience both worlds - our traditional ways and modern education - while maintaining their connection to the land and our family business.
Nicole shares my mother's vision of "learning both ways." She's teaching her sons that they can pursue corporate careers or continue our family's legacy with the tour business - the choice will be theirs. Her youngest son already shows a natural entrepreneurial spirit, while her oldest is exploring technology and education.
We're creating scholarship opportunities for our community's youth, understanding that education is key to preserving our culture while adapting to changing times. It's about finding that delicate balance - maintaining our traditional values while embracing the tools and knowledge needed for success in today's world.
As Nicole tells her boys, "There's a big world out there." She wants them to experience life beyond Page, just as she did, but always remember their roots and responsibility to this sacred land. Through Shun'Diin Canyon Tours, we're building more than just a business - we're creating a legacy that bridges generations and cultures.