A warm welcome to my friends:

I thank all of for purchasing the book, WIND WOLF WOMAN. One of the greatest compliments that you have shared with me was through your identification with the characters in the story.

Sacred Prayer

It is early morning and the sun is barely touching the horizon. Come sit with me and letís watch the sunrise birth itself on another beautiful day. Can you hear the birds quietly chirping in prayer? Donít you love their song ceremony as the sun brings a new day. The gentle wind is joining and speaking to us by softly rustling the leaves through the branches of the trees. Still your mind and ride with these gentle thoughts as we listen to the whispering tones of our own dreams and passions. The moment is wonderful, yet its hushed silence is deafening as we ready ourselves for a wonderful day.

Since yesterdayís problem ended last night, lets embrace our spirit. We ask ourselves why does ignorance keep a darkness in our mortal life? Ponder why people fill their life with the greed and hate. Donít you think its time to lash out at those maddening thoughts and replace them with beauty? We must maintain ourselves through the bitter actions and angered speech from our family and friends. Donít fill those empty hours with frustrations and needless pain. Fill yourself with joy. Go deep inside with a humble prayer and ask forgiveness, as you accept a new way to understand it was merely a lesson to be learned. Make it a habit to pray daily to Wakan Tanka. Thank the Great Spirit for meeting your needs everyday.

And, when the night appears, sit with me again in prayer. Open your heart to Wakan Tanka, the great mystery and feel a deeper understanding to all life. Let the stars paint your way, so you can hear the echoes of all life forces that are dealing with a broken and frightened heart. As these chilled thoughts touch your mind, ask Creator to help heal the insanity, created by the lust of humanís twisted fate. Fill your heart with self love, a love that will never end. Ride with the winds through the valleys of Mother Earth and across the glorious mountains that reach the sky. Feel that special moment of freedom and know you are hearing the whispers of the old people beckoning you back to the sacredness of life. At the end of prayer, be thankful as your soul rises as a blazing brush fire ridding the world of all human sorrows. Once your prayer is completed, stand up for life. Smile with understanding. Twinkle at old age. Release yourself from past hurts. Itís time to rebuild your life?
All my relations
Wind Wolf Woman


Many people have inquired about the cover design of the book, Wind Wolf Woman. The wind blown letters for the title announces the wind speaks to you as a character in the book. The back cover is two happy critters sitting in the art room impatiently waiting for the photo session to be over. This picture took six hours, two roles of film, patience, kindness and bribery, to get a quality picture for the back of the book. Why so much time? Well Iím sure you know it takes great courage to be imperfect and a coward to never complete a battle. It was my grandmother who said that a wolf would rather starve than make a mistake. Maybe this belief system was what delayed the completion of the front and back covers of Wind Wolf Woman.

The front cover holds many memories. I chose ShaTongaís picture to hover over the low hills of Paha Sapa, the heart of all that is.

The Sacred Black Hills should never be disturbed. This magnificent mountain range is among the oldest in the world and sprawls across South Dakota and Wyoming. When you spend time there, you can feel a supernatural stillness surround you. It even speaks to you through the swaying grass. This spiritual silence is only broken by the sweet call of an flying eagle as you listen to many warning squeaks coming from the prairie dog communities far below. The simple beauty of these holy places is consistently expressed through the thickness of its heavy pine forest. From a distance, there is a hazy color of energies blazing upward in spirals of lofty thoughts then fades into a distance of soft black shadows. There are many large boulders resting on the rugged, steep cliffs, unflinchingly expressing the ancient beliefs of the oldest of people in North America.

Long ago our dedicated medicine people trudged seven thousand two hundred forty two feet to spend time on this sacred mountain praying to Wakan Tanka to receive a vision.

Since 1868 The United States of America and the Indian have battled over the many signed treaties. As treaties go, there are three hundred and eighty five written, signed and broken, all the while history marches on still trying to break their forefathers words and steal more Indian land. It is sad to see what has happened to the Sacred Black Hills. I cringe at those crude faces carved onto the sacred stones of Mount Rushmore. This embarrassment degrades American Indianís history, culture and spiritual values. What is wrong with the simple yet beautiful design that Great Spirit created for the people on Mother Earth?


THE WAY OF MAN

Long ago a male child learned from his grandfather, father and uncles what it took to become a man. But in todayís times, the males grow into adulthood without ever being taught the responsibilities it takes to become a man. Traditionally, a young boy would go through a series of strict male training ( not a beating to submission) under his Grandfather, father and uncles. The principles and skills taught are to help them develop skills to become a good provider, hunter, skilled worker, a warrior, always motivated to dream that they too, will become a successful man in the future. In these insecure times every male struggles with his manhood, but this will never be accomplished without a real manís intervention.

I have great concern over the male population in our country. Statistics prove many males are unemployed, on welfare, uneducated and have never developed the proper skills to keep a job. This creates lack of finances, pressure and causes desperation and divorces in a family. There was a time when a man took great pride in supporting his family with his chosen trade. At one time his efforts were supported and appreciated. Today most men feel used and angry over their imprisoned situation. Their complete life is nothing more than work, eat and sleep. What happened to the joy of a mans life? There is none. There is little security in the work force and he is usually to tired to participate in family activities. Coming home, tired from the job is difficult in todayís times. Men are shown little appreciation for their a hard days work. They are lonely and have little to be pleased about and little to celebrate.

When they arrive home, the first words usually muttered to them is; the overdue bills, the families accumulated traumas, along with the gigantic needs of the day. Thatís before he can sit down on the sofa to relax. This lack of respect from his family is destroying the magic he once held and his dreams are reduced to yesterdays old memories. Where are our warriors of today? Where are their physical skills? There is a class of men who are avid fans of football, baseball, wrestling, hockey, soccer, etc. The male species seems to admire the strong physical men that partake in all sports, yet do nothing to keep their bodies in a healthy condition. Itís rather amusing to watch a fat, flabby man lay on the sofa watching sports, always directing the players in how to play the game.

Men! You were born a male, but that does not necessarily mean you have become a man. Any male can produce a child but can he teach a male child leadership, when he is uncertain of its meaning. Some males have mule power. Strong, stubborn and resentful. You look tired. You feel old. Your big mouth enforces hard core angered rules just to get some time alone. You feel your only power over the family is your money. What has happened to You? Where is your motherís prodigal son. Are you walking the path of sacrifice and self pity? Is your soul filled with depression? Are you blind to your self destruction and have lost faith in yourself?
Think, then think again! A man has roles and duties to perform in this world. He stands up! He teaches the young males, protects and provides for his family, fills his heart and mind with love and the purest of thoughts for his families safety. He wants to feel free and not fear his childrenís indefinite future. A man needs heart and a strong will to go against the destruction of Mother Earth. Believe me, itís tough for a man to provide the necessities of life for his loved ones when he is forced to live in a immobilized make-believe world.

What about your teenage boys? They too are looking for their place in society. Older children or teaching younger children, without any ability to train principles or respect for another. Teenage boys are desperate to find their place in life. They need an image maker, that will stop them from bonding through violence, having no regards for their real family. Our younger males are desperate to bond with a leader and the only thing they have is sports and violence which these rules are available in street gangs.

No, no, no, this is not how it works. What happened to our menís identity? Where is their place in society A man is responsible to teach the proper behavior to our young restless teenagers. They need to find their place in family, community and country with honor. Where are the men that live as an example for our future sons? We certainly canít rely on the integrity of our gigolo leaders in this country to represent the proper image of what is a man! In todayís societies most of our men are sitting behind computers being destroyed by multinational corporations. Yet there are those who are self employed or working in the skilled trades hoping to re-establish their masculine identity all the while fearing the future of a one world government.

So what has happened to the role models. Where is the pride in being a real man? A true warrior is much more than physical strength. He is a man of principles, attitude, strength, all intertwined with a heart, mind and soul. A man shows respect and care for another human being. Look back a few generations, then you will see a man who stood up politically for a fair and just law, the concern for family, community and country. A real man has a strong spiritual belief system that follows the principles of the land.

What has happened to the ability of a man becoming a good parent? Why does a father run out on his family? Society no longer gives us enough time or money to think about the value of a child. Look around you! Where is the peaceful life for a responsible man? What about the dead beat dads that refuse to take care of their off-spring! Where is the responsible father that supports and protects his family? Where is the man that teaches leadership, compassion, respect and love? Why is violence, rape, incest and child abuse running rampant in our homes? We certainly canít rely on the integrity of our gigolo leaders in this country for representation of what is a man! Machismo died in the sixties and a man is more than his ego and genitals. There are far too many males that no longer have respect for themselves, home, family or the human race. Men do you want your children to grow up believing the same as you? Will you continue to pepper your sonís minds with the same bitterness and confusion that dictates your emotions and actions in life? After all, your pain, anger, and low self esteem came from somewhere. Was it the unfair rules forced upon you at a younger age? Did your distorted belief system come from your forefathers?

Look at the broken marriages. Look at the young females that are giving birth to children and have no clue who is the father. What has happened to the intimate and committed relationships between a man and a woman. Do you resent the male/female balance in a woman? Do you resent a woman who demands her equal rights. Are your actions teaching your sons to abuse and disrespect the female because you donít know how to treat a woman as an equal? In todayís times can you accept it takes two salaries to support a family and home. Do you feel you have lost your power because your woman works, sometimes making more money than you? Are you bewildered over the changes of todayís rules to survive? Are you angry over the fallen patriarch system that has ruined your kingly position in your job and home? Men say; women do not listen. Is it because of your preconceived ideas of what is a woman? Women say; men do not hear; is it because of your pre-conceived ideas what is a man? Now thatís a real fender bender! What happened to the sensitivity, the understanding and the communication skills between a man and a woman? Maybe they resent each other. The human race needs to stop distorting truth and start thinking, feeling and doing what is in your heart.

Go back and reflect upon your family history. Think of the men admired and feared, yet know both lived by principles. Back then, the family members took care of that helpless boy baby. Those that loved and wanted that baby were devoted and gave great amounts of time and love to support that young life. They taught them to talk, walk and control their bodily functions. Over time they learned to observe and obey the rules of the family. This training defined their identity. As a young boy, he admired a strong yet a gentle man. Through this training, that young boy would someday walk as a strong man of principles. And, that was a good thing.
Every human has a piece of that ancestral genetic history in their DNA. Many of your talents and traits are in your genes waiting to be awakened. Sometimes through their hardships and possibly your lack of understanding their angry speech and actions, may have caused you hurt feelings and this could have displaced a truth or possibly you have overlooked some of the original family values. Sometimes this can create little memory of your beginning years. You may find it necessary to reach back to your past and once again see their truth of that past for the sake of your childrenís, children.

Excerpts From Chapter 8 Wind Wolf Woman By Mahinto

ìLife can be a very lonely walk if you choose to surround yourself with dark clouds of confusion. It is you who must feel worthy of Creator's gifts and accept the happiness in being his child. Remember Meeko, life is simple; itís people who complicate it.î
Although Meeko was apprehensive about training under Shadowhawk, he knew this man would demand strong principles and many responsibilities from him. Understanding where he was in life, Meeko asked, ìGranbear you know Iíve always wanted a father in my life. Do you think it would be okay if I ask Shadowhawk to be my Hunka Ateí, adopted father, during my boy training?î
ìDo you think you are ready to become a Hunka Towa, adopted relative child?î
ìYes, Iím ready to ask for the ceremony of making relatives and feel that Shadowhawk would be the right person to guide my manhood years.î
ìWell, Grandson, there is a way to do everything.î Granbear gave Meeko a pipe then explained what he must do. ìGo talk to the grandfathers and get their advice about how to earn the right to receive this ceremony.î
Meeko went to speak to many of the elders about his situation and found an old Sundance leader who smoked the pipe with him then explained what a Hunka Towa ceremony would require from himself and Shadowhawk.
Following his instructions, Meeko chose three trustworthy men to become his advisors. After gathering more information from them, he was advised to take his pipe, sweetgrass and sage to Granbear, and ask in a proper manner if he would be his medicine man for the Hunka ceremony.
After the pipe ceremony, Granbear advised Meeko to find two Hunkapila Kolaís, relative friends, to speak on his behalf to Shadowhawk to see if he would consider becoming his Hunka Ateí. Taking his pipe again, Meeko chose two Dog Soldiers to speak for him. They sat with Meeko under a large shade tree listening.
ìKolas, I give you this filled pipe along with this willow bark and sweetgrass to offer to Shadowhawk to become my Hunka Ate'. I know what I do is right. I know you both are Hunkas and I want to speak to you about the Hunka ceremony.î
They spoke for some time about the loyalty and responsibilities to become a Hunka Towa, then by late afternoon they agreed this was a good thing. When they left on their mission, Meeko wondered if he had been strong enough to impress Shadowhawk to accept his offer. That evening when Meeko saw the two men approaching he became nervous.
ìWe have done as youíve asked, Little Brother. Shadowhawk has accepted your pipe. He will use it in prayer to see if the spirits wish for him to become your Hunka Ate'.î
Meeko was happy to hear their words and yelled, ìHau, thank you.î
Granbear heard and said, ìMeeko, Shadowhawk makes decisions with great thought, for he is a warrior who carries Contrar medicine. What youíve asked of him, says you wish to be like him. It means you have to know the old ways backward and forward. A Contrar will say ëI hate youí but that could mean ëI love you.í They have the power to stick their hands in boiling water but tell everyone itís ice cold. They can bathe in icy water and scream that itís too hot. To follow these ways, you must be able to completely control your body, thoughts and actions without any fear of failure.
ìIf Shadowhawk refuses you as a Hunka, he can also refuse to guide you across the bridge between boyhood and manhood. Are you sure you want to try to accomplish these two ambitions at one time?î
ìGranbear, I know I can do both, but Iíll do whatever you advise.î
ìWell then, if this is what you want, itís time to get your advisors and meet with your desired Hunka Ate' in the proper manner.î
Shadowhawk smiled as the four entered his house. Granbear spoke first. ìI bring you my great-great-grandson. He wants you to become his Hunka Ateí.î
Then each man stepped forward speaking in Meeko's behalf. Granbear stood up to go saying, ìWe all want the best for Meeko. So, I will say goodbye to the boy and soon let you introduce Meeko, the man, to the Bear Clan.î Granbear winked in a knowing way at Shadowhawk and both agreed that this training would be beneficial for Meeko.
As they were leaving, Granbear hesitated at the door, saying, ìIíll be visiting some friends for a few days. They will drive me to the bus station to pick up Lizzie, then bring us home. Meeko will stay and begin his duties to become a Hunka Towa.î Turning to Meeko, he said, ìGrandson, donít let your shortsightedness aggravate Shadowhawk while Iím gone.î
Meeko felt intimidated with Granbearís words of warning, yet full of anticipation as he sat alone with Shadowhawk, a man he had feared since age three. He remembered Shadowhawk scowling at his Alo Wanpi, Sing Ceremony, when he cried getting his ear pierced. But now he felt somewhat more confident about facing Shadowhawk's challenges.
ìMy Grandson, you have always been strong in my heart. But are you sure you are ready to leave behind your childish thinking and become a good man? I know you have always missed having a father, and I can be that father. My question to you is, can you be a son? I have taken counsel with Granbear, my Hunka, and he has advised me to consider this matter carefully before I make you my Hunka Towa. I have chosen three elders to assist me before I give you my final decision.
ìThe Hunka ceremony is only given to a special few. You were taken away from the reservation very young and many of your thoughts are still too scattered. There will be many responsibilities demanded from both of us to build a strong Hunka relationship. We must ask Wakan Tanka if this ceremony should be granted.
ìBefore I can agree to become your Hunka Ateí, I will explain the responsibilities so that you understand what it takes to be a Hunka Towa. As a Hunka Towa, you can never lie or deceive me. Nor can you question my decisions. Whatever I ask of you, you must do, even if you disagree. Your loyalty is to be given without question. If you are accepted into a Hunka family, you are related to all Hunka families. The honor of being a Hunka Towa goes far beyond any position of a birth son. A Hunka family is your first family, and you must always be generous and protect them. Not only will my children be your brothers and sisters, my wife will be your mother. And if I choose another woman, she too will be your mother.
ìOnce the ceremony is completed, we must always respect and never dishonor one another. Such loyalty is stronger than blood and you, like me, will honor the people and condemn every bad thing thrust upon them for all time,î stated Shadowhawk, looking deep into Meekoís soul.
As Shadowhawk continued to probe the boyís mind, Meeko felt intimidated, his mind racing as if he was riding chaotic waves in a sea of flames. He knew deep inside that being Shadowhawk's Hunka Towa would bind him forever to this man, and this scared him.
ìMeeko, in the old times I would have demanded a Hunka Towa to take many wives. Now I ask you to take one good wife. In the past I would also have demanded you to help me steal many horses as well as women. Now I ask you to never steal. I would have insisted you fight and kill my enemies and take many scalps. Now I ask you to not harm another. These are my rules and once weíre bound together, it is for life. Know this bond can never be broken, nor can either of us withdraw from this relationship unless we both give our consent in front of council. It is they who give the last word.î
He started to speak, but Shadowhawk put his hand up for silence. ìBefore you speak, I have things to say that must stay locked in your heart and never become spoken words. Do you understand?î
Meeko nodded obediently.
ìGranbear is a most highly respected holy man. He is the only one left that can incite the magic voice in this ceremony. He knows the great Sun Chief, and when he enters that doorway, this powerful man of reverence knows how to ride with the above powers. Since I cannot teach these things, I insist you learn as much as you can before he leaves us.
ìWhen Auntie Lizzie and I had your mother, Granbear became my Hunka Ate'. You are my grandson, and naturally I want you as my Hunka Towa. I have watched you closely, and I know you can become a good man. But I have also seen how you like the girls. Two of those young girls are my daughters. There will be no more looking at your sisters in a wrong way if you are to become part of my Hunka family.î
Meeko gazed at the floor in shame, hoping Shadowhawk would accept his ignorance, wondering why he had never been told of these things before.
Shadowhawk knew he had touched Meeko's heart and dismissed him curtly. ìGo pray to have the ceremony sanctioned by the Great Spirit. I will go to the hills for a Hanblecheyapi. When I come back, I will be ready to give you my answer.î
Grateful for his instructions, Meeko spent the next four days praying and awaiting Shadowhawkís return. On the fifth day, Shadowhawk arrived with a broad smile on his face. ìStart planning for the Hunka ceremony. Invite everyone to celebrate this great occasion.î
Meeko was ecstatic that Wakan Tanka had sanctioned the ceremony and knew there was a great deal of work to do before the ceremony. It was Granbearís responsibility to find the mysterious sacred ear of corn then paint it in alternating red and blue stripes, leaving some rows in their natural color. He also supervised how to make the secret wands to send to certain guests.
On the day before the ceremony many people began to arrive and offered to help. Certain ones were chosen to help with the last-minute details, and by late afternoon the tipi held all the needed items.
When the sun went over down, Shadowhawk sent word for the participants to meet in the tipi for the night ceremony. Meeko arrived with willow bark, sweetgrass, tobacco and his pipe. Everyone waited in silence as the fire burned down to hot coals. Shadowhawk and Meeko sat at the West Door of the tipi while Shadowhawk's advisors sat in the other three directions.
Then Meeko filled a special pipe and handed it to Shadowhawk who, in turn, sprinkled sweetgrass over the coals and waved the pipe in a circular motion through the smoke. ìOh, Great Spirits of the West, North, East, and South, give us your warm and unselfish blessings for this ceremony.î He then offered the pipe up to Wakan Tanka. ìOh, Tunkaíshila, Grandfather, I humbly offer this smoke up to you. Oh, Spirit of the West, we appeal to you. Oh, Spirit of the North, we plead to you. Oh, Spirit of the East, we draw upon you. Oh, Spirit of the South, we urge you. Oh, sweet Spirit of Mother Earth, we ask much of you.î Then with the pipe over his head, Shadowhawk stood and called upon Wakan Tanka to sanction the ceremony for all the people to witness.
As Granbear entered carrying the counting sticks and one fire stick, his helpers placed a painted Buffalo skull on the altar. While Granbear chanted an ancient song, Meeko's advisors brought in two Hunka wands decorated with horsehair and two eagle feathers swaying from each end. They also carried two rattles and the sacred corn adorned with two white eagle plumes hanging from the end. When the song was finished, Granbear lit his pipe and prayed as he walked in a sunwise manner around the tipi. A helper followed him, holding both wands in one hand and the skin of a mallard duck in the other, calling to Okaga while offering the corn up to Father Sky. Granbear called out, ìMay this sacred corn represent our Ate', Wi, and Maka Ina.î
Granbear took the mysterious ear of sacred corn. ìGive this family plenty of food, Tunkaíshila, and take this dried meat to please Tatanka. Let these gifts, along with our prayers, reach to the spirit of the animals so they may always take care of the people.î Taking the painted tail feathers of a young eagle, he waved them above Meeko's head, shouting, ìMay the spirit of Wanbli Gleíska ride in this tail. Let these feathers make a brave man who will bring peace and happiness to all who know him.î
Granbear took the wands, and waving them over Meeko's head, shouted, ìOh, fire of the light, see these four quills. I offer this gift from Wanbli Gle'ska. Let them hang as a sacred fan always, so this young man can speak to the spirits of the Sun Chief and Tatanka.î Again Granbear waved the wands over Meeko. ìMay you always have plenty to share with your Hunka Ate'.î
The old medicine man took two buffalo scrotum rattles which were painted red with blue stripes, and again called out, ìOh, Tunkaíshila, Grandfather, we offer up these two rattles to please the good spirits and to drive the bad ones away. We call upon the Two times Two, the day and the night powers. Let them give us two good blue days and two good red days.î
Granbear brought out a mysterious pipe that was seldom used and lit it. Offering it up to the spirits, he softly prayed, ìOh, Great Spirit who lives in the Buffalo skull, tell the animals and the plant people to please take care of the children.î He then burned sweetgrass to summon all the spirits to join in the ceremony and lit sage to drive away the bad spirits as he sang songs recounting the history of all the Hunkas.
When Granbear had finished, Shadowhawk handed Meeko a large Bear medicine bag, saying, ìYou will stand like Bear, and you will never sleep with Coyote.î
Granbear shouted out to Meeko, ìMy moccasins are old. I have none to take their place. Take off your moccasins and give them to me.î Meeko obeyed.
ìI am cold and hungry. I have nothing to wear. Take off your clothes and give them to me,î demanded Granbear in a forceful voice. Meeko handed him food and stripped down to his loincloth.
Granbear smiled, then yelled out, ìYou have proven you are a Hunka. See everyone, he has given up everything for a Hunka in need.î He painted the right side of Meekoís face with a red stripe from his forehead to his chin. ìThis is so no one will ever forget who you are. I now place such a stripe on your Hunka Ate'.î With steady hands Granbear painted an identical stripe on Shadowhawk's face. Thunderous drumming rang throughout the tipi, driving the Hunka members to their feet while they lifted their voices as one in a Hunka honoring song.
Shadowhawk shouted, ìHunkas are willing to die for each other! Look everyone! There is an enemy in the camp! Who will help me capture him?î
Meeko bolted to his side, and together they crouched down into the stance of stalkers. Moving silently around the outside of the tipi, they slashed at all that was near, and when they re-entered the tipi, everyone let out the Hunka warriorís cry then burst into their victory song.
Meeko was offered the place of honor next to Shadowhawk who said, ìI take this young man as my Hunka Towa.î
When the advisors heard this they rushed at them, wrestling both to the ground, binding their arms and legs together. Shadowhawk and Meeko were stood up on their feet as Granbear waved the Hunka wands over them. ìYou are bound as one for life. What you have will be his. What he has will be yours. If anyone tries to harm your Hunka, you will seek revenge. I bless this joining.î
It was sunrise before the ceremony was completed, and everyone shared in a special feast to celebrate this sacred ceremony. And for the first time, Meeko was moved by the commitment of such a ceremony and proud he had participated in this ancient custom.
Time passed as the hot summer winds blew steadily. Every afternoon rainstorms swept over the land, making Meeko more aware of the cycles of life caused by water. His knowledge grew as he observed every aspect of nature. In the evening the old people would sit listening to the night sounds, often speaking softly to Meeko to help him understand his own life dance.
When Summer Solstice arrived, Granbear, Shadowhawk and other Sundance leaders began preparing for the sacred Sun Dance. Meeko wished he could participate in this sacred ceremony, and spent days walking into the interior of the reservation thinking about his desire. He walked to a high point overlooking the vastness of the hills and valleys to listen to the messages of the winds, praying the spirits would embrace his needs. Trying to absorb natureís innermost secrets, he remembered Granbearís words, ìFirst know yourself, then you can connect to the spirit that moves in all things. Only then will the Great Spirit assist you in placing one foot in front of the other without ever leaving a bad mark on the land.î
Slowly Meeko began to merge with all life around him like an invisible being with no thought, breath or sound. Meeko heard his inner voice whisper. ìLet the animals, plants and trees guide you to the pathway of a good heart.î Suddenly in a terrifying voice that penetrated to the core of his soul, the winds warned, ìRun, Meeko, Run.î Feeling unsettled, Meeko sat that evening with the elders, listening to Granbear speak about their days of collecting old bones in the Badlands and the deep significance of this one hundred and twenty square miles of barren land that held the history of First Creation.
He felt the presence of these old spirits, just as he had while listening to Granbearís campfire stories about all the aspects of the Medicine Wheel. But this time he experienced a revelation-the world had new meaning and everything had a purpose when he saw that everything was connected to spirit. Thinking of how Red Cloud and Crazy Horse had fought to save their way of life, he wished the land was once again filled with buffalo and tipis. Yearning for more knowledge about his people, Meeko went to Granbear. ìWhy do we place our dead underground instead of above ground, like long ago?î
ìSome people do place the dead above the ground, but most do like the white man and bury their dead. I do not believe in that way. The soul must be given the time to find its way back to the spirit world. The Keeping and Releasing of the Soul is the first rite on the pipe. To be a strong pipe carrier, we do as the pipe tells us.î
ìGranbear, if I chose to walk the Sundance way, would it help me build a stronger pipe?î
ìMeeko, many things are considered when learning to track the beast that lives inside. The Sun Dance teaches us to track ourselves and return with all knowledge of our soulís existence. A good Sundancer tracks himself without disturbing anotherís world, just as Shadowhawk tracks animals without disturbing the land. Each of us finds our own way.î
That night Meeko lay awake reflecting on the potential growth that might await him if he became a Sundancer. Long before dawn the next morning, he joined Shadowhawk to help gather firewood for a sweat. ìThe Inipi reminds us to always give thanks to Wakan Tanka for all life and pray for spiritual guidance in all that we do,î said Shadowhawk.
ìShadowhawk, I wonder if I could Sundance this year?î
ìHave you discussed this with Granbear? You know you must pledge one year before participating in the Sun Dance. Did you do this?î
ìNo,î confessed Meeko. ìBut I would like to dance while Granbear is still alive.î
ìThat would be a good thing. Weíll pray over this in tonight's Inipi.î
Three weeks before the Sun Dance, Meeko helped set up security, placing a long pole across the road to control the entrance. As he did so, Shadowhawk outlined the rest of his duties. ìYou must know everyone who enters, and no matter who it is, search every vehicle for alcohol, drugs, or cameras before putting a red cloth on the antenna.î
Coming home from a hard dayís work, Meeko was surprised when Granbear handed him his piercing ropes. Knowing this meant he had been sanctioned to Sundance, Meeko thanked Granbear profusely and hurried off to ask an old grandmother to make him a Sundance skirt.
The night before the Sun Dance, the grounds were filled with many new tipis and tents. Very early the next morning forty men went to get the sacred cottonwood tree that had been selected the year before. Shadowhawk motioned two men to climb up and place ropes among its branches to keep the tree from touching the ground as it fell. As the men carried the sacred tree on their shoulders back to the Sundance circle amidst much singing, an old Sundancer invited Meeko to join them. Thrilled to be one of the new pledgers, he sang proudly along with the group. When they entered the sacred circle, Shadowhawk invited Meeko to walk by his side to the front of the tree.
Granbear met them with his Staff of Life and placed the tobacco, buffalo meat and water into the hole that had been dug for the sacred tree. The people lined up to give flesh offerings as they prayed. Many prayer flags and tobacco ties were placed in the treeís branches, while Shadowhawk hung the handmade leather images of a bull buffalo and a man. He then placed four Chokecherry branches into the tree to symbolize abundance for the world, while the Sundancers fastened their piercing ropes to the tree. Following Granbearís signal, the men stood the sacred tree in the hole. As the wind slowly began to dance with the colorful prayer flags, Meeko stood next to Granbear and felt a power growing from the joyous faces of the people.
Later as Meeko wandered through the campgrounds, the grandmother presented him with a beautiful blue Sundance skirt on which was painted a bear face with many ribbon streamers. Granbear joined them, admiring her work, then handed Meeko his piercing sticks along with an eagle fan and an eagle bone whistle.
Meeko entered the Sundancersí lodge and began to twist pieces of sage into wreaths wrapping them carefully with blue material. He made one for his head, two for his wrists, and two more for his ankles.
ìMy name is Crow. Is this your first year to dance?î a stranger asked.
Feeling insecure, as he noticed the many scars on the man's chest, legs and back, Meeko said softly, ìYes.î
ìYou'll do fine,î encouraged Crow.
Following the sweat the next morning, Meeko silently went with the others to the Sundance tipi and dressed for his first day in a Sundance circle. Crow smiled and placed a Golden Eagle feather on each side of Meeko's head, saying, ìThese eagle feathers will help you be strong through your first Sun Dance.î
When Meeko walked into the Sundance circle, skirts of many colors came alive with the rising sun. The symbols of Eagle, Bear, Buffalo and Lightning Man moved on the garments as the drums called to the dancers. The high-pitched sounds of their eagle bone whistles connected the dancers as they raised their eyes toward the sun. Meeko blew his eagle bone whistle with every step, letting his feet glide to the rhythm of the drumís beat. At the end of the first endurance, Meeko left the circle to go and rest under the arbor where Granbear quietly acknowledged that he was doing well.
A helper approached each dancer offering them burning cedar. Meeko inhaled deeply to feel the smokeís power touch his soul. When the dancers returned to continue the Sun Dance, Crow walked over to the Tree of Life and lay down on a bed of sage. Shadowhawk knelt over him and pierced Crow on the right and left side of his chest, placing his hanging sticks through each slit. After his ropes were hooked over these sticks, he stretched his arms outward as they hoisted him up into the tree. There he hung for the rest of the day. Slowly Anpetu, the red that shines at twilight, painted its colors across the evening sky signaling for the serene glowing Crow to be lowered to the ground.
As Meeko tried to sleep that night many pictures danced on the back of his eyelids. He saw people of long ago being pierced at the tree, many dragging behind them as many as twelve Buffalo skulls hooked to their backs. He cried with joy, knowing that he was gathering power in the same way as his ancient ancestors had done long ago.
On the second day, Meeko danced in view of Crow, who was once again hanging in the sacred Tree of Life with outstretched arms looking directly into the sun. That evening as Meeko listened to other dancers complain of hunger, thirst, exhaustion and sunburned bodies, he was thankful that Granbear and Shadowhawk had prepared him well.
On the third day prayers were said for the fallen dancers who were either taken to the tree to rest or left to sit with their heads bowed in shame. Granbear or Shadowhawk spoke for a long time with the dancers as they left the circle. Meeko was exhausted and worried if he could continue.
Crow, reading his thoughts, encouraged him, saying, ìOnce I too, was afraid of piercing, but I wanted to dance for the people. I found that Father Sun offers his rays to climb upon. After they paint the red piercing circles on your chest, go to the powers of Wakan Tanka, and when you are pierced you wonít feel anything.î
On the fourth day, Meeko entered the Sundance circle with two red circles painted on his chest which indicated to the Sundance leader where he wished to be pierced. Mid-afternoon he noticed an eagle flying overhead and remembered his first call from Eagle. ëHow high can you fly, Meeko? How high do you dare fly?í He felt a strength beyond his knowing surge through him as he glanced toward the tree to see Crow break free from the ropes. Crow dropped to the ground and landed on his feet with a peaceful face that reflected spiritual beauty. In the traditional way, Crow ran clockwise four times around the circle then returned to the line of dancers. Meeko, inspired by Crow who looked at him with spirit eyes, left the line to be pierced.
As Meeko lay down on the bed of sage, the appointed grandmother caressed his forehead and spoke to him encouragingly. Granbear placed a bundle of sage in his mouth as Shadowhawk pinched his skin, lifted it from his chest and slipped a knife into it. Shadowhawk helped Meeko to his feet and carefully hooked the ropes to the sticks now protruding from his chest.
The ropes pulled against his flesh, causing a burning sensation. Meeko stood still until his body adjusted to the pain, then danced toward the tree, placing both hands on it in prayer. The tree came alive, its bark felt like soft skin and its movements like human breath. Meeko blew his eagle bone whistle as the beat of the drums drove his pounding feet. Four times he danced to and from the sacred Tree of Life, causing the ropes to stretch his skin outward from his chest as he filled his heart with the strength of Great Spirit.
The last time Meeko danced away, he held his head high and faced the sun, staring unflinchingly as he rode its rays. He danced backwards until his skin stood out four inches from his chest and yet he felt no pain. All of a sudden his skin tore free and the piercing sticks flew into the air as his spirit soared. Meeko ran at breakneck speed four times around the circle, with many friends and family following behind to honor him.
When he returned and stood at the sacred Tree of Life, Granbear smiled proudly and handed Meeko the pieces of his flesh wrapped in a square of red cloth. Shadowhawk took special herbs and mixed them with tobacco to fill Meekoís open wounds. After resting for a moment at the tree, Meeko returned to the line of Sundancers, moving stronger than ever.
Although many pledgers had participated in the Sun Dance, Meeko was proud that he was among those who had completed his Sun Dance ritual.
At the end of the Sun Dance ceremony the participants, now considered holy, lined up and lay their hands on the heads of those who wished to be healed. Once this healing ceremony was accomplished, the Sundance leader called the dancers together for their final sweat. This completed another yearly Sun Dance ceremony.
Once dressed, Meeko looked for Crow, but could not find him. After inquiring about his whereabouts, he thought it strange that no one knew of his presence. Puzzled Meeko went to Granbear and asked, ìWhere is the man called Crow who hung from the Tree of Life for four days?î
Granbear smiled in a knowing way. ìAh Grandson, many have seen this man called Crow, but few have spoken with him. The old ones say heís a spirit who comes each year to Sundance, and they call him the Man Who Carries Many Scars.î Chills ran through Meekoís body when he realized he had danced alongside a great spirit warrior.
For a week, Meeko's mind was engrossed with images of Crow. Once all the people had left Meeko went to sit alone in the Sundance circle to relive the days of the Sun Dance. He was astonished to see Crow again hanging from the tree as he spoke to Meeko of his future. ìToday's world demands you learn to use many new weapons in battling for the freedom of humankind's soul. The young ones that are being born today will help free a fear-controlled society. In time you will experience this limitation and understand how the human race has suffered from the ruling peoples of the world.î Now certain of his calling, Meeko never spoke of Crow again, yet he never forgot this powerful encounter.
The next day Shadowhawk spent many hours teaching Meeko the history of their people. ìWe come from the stars and we were chosen to take care of Mother Earth. She holds the bones of our ancestors and we should never sell the land. It was these old ones and nature who taught us that we are one with the land. To become a good warrior and hunter, you must know your place in the tribe. Iím teaching you this history so you too can walk like the invisible trackers of old and never leave a mark upon your path unless you choose to do so. Now, go and learn from the coming season.î
During the next three months, Meeko came to understand the reality behind the changes of the seasons and how it takes time for all things to adjust to change.
Meeko was sad to see summer waning and fall approaching. The leaves were slowly turning red and yellow and fell to the ground in brown brittleness, a signal to certain birds it was time to fly south. Meeko felt the anger of winter, knowing Yata was killing everything in his path in order to lay his blanket of winter snow across the land.
Soon winter arrived and Shadowhawk began to teach Meeko new hunting skills, pointing out the importance of the signs left by the animals and the characteristics of plants and trees. While they were tracking one morning, Shadowhawk said, ìEverything has its own language. Learn to observe and understand how to speak without the use of words. Learn to feel a presence, then look for the obvious. There are always signs if you are aware of natureís rules. Study each mark left on Mother Earthís floor and know whose footsteps are walking the same trail. Know that the winged ones live above and below and when there is a disturbance on the earthís floor, something is out of balance. Eagle looks for these things and considers them as food, a gift from Creator.
ìSounds are another way to understand nature's laws. Listen to everything and know each message the voice gives you. Study the trees, bushes, stones and animals for the answers you seek. If you become worthy of natureís knowledge, you will understand the lessons that Wakan Tanka has provided for all beings.î Shadowhawk shared his excitement as he spoke of natureís laws, giving Meeko a deeper understanding of the skill of observation.
ìRemember when I sent you to watch the beavers build their summer home?î questioned Shadowhawk. ìDid you see why the young must learn to follow the rules of the elders? Beaver teaches her young to grow strong and independent. When she is finished training, she chases them from the home-something human parents could learn. Beaver may teach a harsh lesson, but it is for survival. Pay attention and you will live. Break a rule and you die. Everything in nature is willing to share its teachings, but it takes a wise student to benefit from them.
ìMeeko, I tell you these things so you do not become a foolish hunter. Taking a life is done for survival. Itís only common sense never to hunt alone. In old times someone who hunted alone was seen as breaking a tribal rule because they would scare away the game needed by others. If this happened, the people would tear up the hunter's tipi and take away his food, or they would demand a public beating.
ìIn the past a man's words and deeds gave him honor among his people. Sharing and caring was Wakan Tanka's way of teaching the people to love one another. This is why we teach our boys to become good, caring men and expect them to pass these values on to the next generation. You must know of all these things, or Wakan Tankaís creations will not speak to you.î
Arriving home in late afternoon, Meeko and Shadowhawk stripped, gutted, cleaned and distributed two freshly killed deer. The women filled the drying racks and the old men prepared the antlers to be used for carrying the sacred stones into the Inipi.
Once the work was completed, Shadowhawk presented a beautifully hand-carved ash bow with arrows to Meeko, who felt honored. Granbear placed the bow stave across Meeko's chest, then down his right side, making sure it was properly sized, stating, ìIn my day, the bow was our most powerful tool. It kept us from exposing ourselves to the white man's rifles in battle. We would stay well hidden until we were close enough to send our arrows to the target, sometimes as far away as fifty yards. A good warrior knew his weapon and made his arrows deadly. As he rode his war pony, he could shoot faster than a pistol. During battle our men sent arrows to the enemy like a swarm of mad hornets.î
At dawn the following morning, Shadowhawk gave Meeko his first lesson with the bow. ìBecome one with the bow. Feel what the bow is saying to you, and let the arrow be an extension of you,î said Shadowhawk as he painted a round target on a tree stump. In time Meeko developed the strength to pull fast and release quickly, hitting the target three out of five tries.
One day Shadowhawk demonstrated his own skill. Meeko watched as his arrow shot high above their heads, then downward, right where he was standing. As Meeko jumped out of the way, Shadowhawk chuckled, saying, ìHandle the bow more gently and become one with it before you break its spine. Feel the power in its body and listen to what the bow is telling you.î
Meeko was awed by Shadowhawkís skill. Shadowhawk continued the lesson, saying, ìLong ago, the tribes tortured enemies' souls by shooting their bellies full of arrows. This practice ensured their children would be born deformed throughout eternity. Our warriors knew their enemies could never take revenge until we released their souls.î
Week after week Meeko tried to shoot his arrows into the target. When he could finally plant every arrow precisely, Shadowhawk challenged him further with a rolling hoop, and in a short time his arrows landed in the center of the moving object.
Granbear then added another challenge. He put a small stone between a split stick and had Meeko spin around and shoot, telling him, ìWhen you learn to feel its presence, just turn and release.î For weeks Meeko missed because he could not understand how to feel its presence without seeing it. Then one day he felt a surge down his arm, and as he shot the arrow, he split the stone and understood what Granbear had been saying.
Meeko bragged until Shadowhawk took his bow and arrows from him, saying, ìNow let's see if you can throw a spear.î Shadowhawk heaved forth a heavy spear, and hit the center of his target, then asked, ìDid you watch the motion of my body?î Meeko just shrugged, so Shadowhawk demanded he stand by the tree. Shadowhawk arched his back and threw once again. Meeko froze as the singing spear landed between his feet. Horrified, and vowing to get even, he began to practice with the spear until he was sure he could place it between Shadowhawk's legs. When the opportunity came, he aimed it carefully at Shadowhawkís legs and threw, but Shadowhawk caught it in midair and hurled it back between Meeko's legs, saying, ìA little more to the right.î Stunned and feeling powerless, Meeko knew he would pay dearly for his challenge.


It was a lazy Sunday morning when my son walked into my office with a teasing smile on his face and asked, ìWhatever happened to our 3,000 acre farm? I found the question interesting and reflected on his statement.

I was born into an extensively large family, twelve uncles and twelve aunties along with two sets of grand parents and all the extended living elders was quiet a clan. From the time I was born, I knew that every adult relative had the power to correct, discipline and teach a way of life. Through them, I knew that all people were tied to the land and they demanded the children to take care of the land and always respect Mother Earth and all of her children.
Early evening was my favorite time of the day. The old people would gather on the porch and discuss their past histories. Sometimes we children were allowed to sit in a respective distance and listen to their stories.

It seemed there was an Irish woman who came to this country and worked in the fields digging potatoes for her keep. From what I understand she was extremely beautiful and stayed away from people unless called upon to do a healing. A particular day while in the fields working, an Indian man approach her and a romance began. Within six months she was pregnant. Great scorn was brought upon her. To keep her from being killed, she and her future husband ran to the reservation for safety where my Great-great grandfather and his people owned 3000 acres of land.

As the story goes they had two sons and my great-great grandmother became well known on the reservation for her healing powers. In time many of the white settlers heard of her powers. Although they disliked the mixed marriage but accepted the situation since they too, wanted to used her strong healing powers.

One day my great great-grandfather was killed while out hunting. My great-great grandmother inherited the land and continued to work it while raising two sons eight and nine years old.

One late night, a group of white men came and set fire to her home. Fearing for her childrenís life, she grabbed wet blankets and took the boys to the cellar where she lay over their bodies to keep them alive. When the Indian relatives saw the fire, they raced to her but it was to late. The house had burned to the ground. They called to her but no answer. The boys crawled from underneath their mother and ran to the safety of the familiar voices.

They say, my great-great grandmother was burned very badly and it took many months for her to heal. Not being able to take care of herself or the boys, my great-great grandfatherís people came and took care of her. They rebuilt the home and continued to run the farm and take care of my Great-great grandfather family as though he was still alive. My great-great grandmother was very bitter and refused to speak English or associate with white people. From what they say, her body was very scarred and many turned away rather than see the ugliness. Even when their children saw her they grew afraid and ran crying in fear of the witch.

In time the two sons married and lived by the hard core principles of life enforced by my great-great grandmother and her dead husbands Indian ways. As the clan continued to grow and produce many children, the strong established rules were cut in stone. Every grandchild was raised as an Indian and very few spoke English.. When there was a marriage, the relatives would build the couple a house on the original land as a wedding gift. There was a grave yard on a nearby hill that carried the bones of all our ancestors. From birth everyone understood without question we were born to Mother Earth and would return to Mother Earth.
In time, these original children produced five to seven children per family. Everyone worked as one with a purpose and every day work started long before dawn. There were stock to feed, cows to milk, fields to be plow, planting to be done, large gardens to be weeded, vegetables and fruits to be picked and canned for support of all the families until the coming year.

This cycle was repeated year after year as my great-great grandmother had demanded. From generation to generation they still gathered on the porch and spoke of their past. I once heard my father say, this grandmother would roam nude over the land at night singing and talking to the wee people. It was she who had taught him to find the secrets hidden in her many stories about the powers of spirits. It seemed on one cold night she was roaming around the house and went to the boys bedroom. She watched an Uncle climb up on the end of the foot board and dive into the middle of the floor. Lying there bleeding and screaming, my grandfather rushed into the room and was astonished to see his sonís head smashed open. He asked his mother what had happened and she answered with no concern. How was I supposed to know he couldnít turn the boards into a river. After all he was dreaming about, going for a swim, then haughtily left the room to get her medicine bag. Everyone laughed over the story, but it seems strange to me that he had no scars from that incident. Even though my great- great grandmother died long before I was a twinkle in my fatherís eye, the clan still enforces her teachings.

Even in my childhood, everyone was assigned certain work duties. There was never a question about your productive place in the family. These responsibilities were considered a great honor. It was imperative to follow your daily work schedule, and you knew it had to be right the first time. There was no room for excuses, mistakes, laziness, or the lack of understanding. The rules were harsh for those that did not follow the set protocol. Believe me, if you broke the rules you paid the price. But those that followed the established rules soon learned the value in their assigned duties always inspired to carry more responsibilities as they grew older.
Sometimes when the adults were not around to supervise, the boys would strut around the farm with their chest puffed out like a cocky rooster, always feeling full of themselves. They bragged about their abilities, and loved terrorizing the younger children. When anyone would dare to challenge back, they would threaten, hit, shove and fight to prove their superior power. Many a bloody brawl happened during these unsupervised times. But when an adult arrived on the scene, your blood ran cold in your veins. Everyone knew there would be hell to pay. Soon everyone regretted the error of their ways. Another rigid training schedule was placed into position and the work schedule was doubled, leaving no time to sleep or eat until long after dark. Through this childhood training, I learned to work hard and be determined, always giving a hundred and ten percent.

This treatment may sound ruthless to some, but it brought one back to the rules of the principles of family structure. It took only a few of these outbreaks to realize it was a necessity to work for the good of the all and share equally in all endeavors, always remembering to respect each other and to help them in time of need.

A manís duty was to protect and feed his family always teaching the boys how to become a man of strength and integrity. A man must have strong principles, truth in his words, know how to hunt and live off the land.

If you think back in history of the old lifestyle, everything was pretty much honorable. But things changed when the terrible crash of the stock market in1929 hit our country. We were struck with hard times and poverty. Many farms were lost during those times and there were no jobs or money available. My family members traded their skills for equal pay. They had no written contracts in those days, but their word was better than any signed contract in todayís times. Overtime, they were forced to leave the farm to get a job to pay the taxes on the land. From the time a boy child was born it had responsibilities. The wise elders trained him to conquer all fear, honor life, shoot a gun, use a knife, take a life in a sacred manner, fight to the death of any enemy and become a strong warrior.
This rigid training demanded the boy child to stand up as a man of honor and develop as an individual person of power always respecting Creator first, all life second, then respect self. The eldest of the clan called upon those of draft age and ask them to join the armed forces, while asking the others to find jobs in the cities to help support those that were going to stay and attend the farm.
Well, we all know Uncle Sam does not use a bartering system. To answer my sonís question; What happened to the farm? It was condemned by the United States Government. The Tennessee Valley Authority wanted a dam and our 3,000 acre farm is now under water, still in litigation. Using this earlier training, I have found that life is a series of many choices and goes far beyond any classroom. Being a woman, I chose to become the head of my household.

True education comes from understanding, faith, courage, and personal experiences in our lives. A day ends with the night and the night ends with a day. There are days that will hold grief, stress, losses and heartache due to our bad choices. Sometimes life is more generous if we let go of these bad things and stop our self induced failures. Many times we feel holding a grudge is a necessity. These darkened thoughts only build into our grim failures. Wouldnít it be more generous to let go of those things and stop our self induced break downs? If negative experiences create difficulties and misunderstandings in a life, why not use the experiences to build a strong will and gain strength to live a life of integrity.

Hopes and dreams are what our life is built upon. When we touch anotherís life, always give them hope and let it be for the good of that person. Stand tall with or without certainty. All people can create and develop a new plan if they have a strong will, always remembering it may never work unless you can accept the possibilities of change. When you feel that you can no longer learn, then know you are carrying around a heart filled with fear and hate stubbornly rejecting to help yourself. What makes a person refuse to let go of their self destruction or escape through drugs and alcohol? It is the ego that makes us dishonor ourselves. Without spiritual growth there is no credibility in what you say or do. Why divert from the truth. What are you passing on to the people of the land. Why blame another because you arenít strong enough to face your own truth. Sometimes when self anger takes over and you feel alone, know it was you who deserted yourself. Bad behavior and lousy principles drive all the good thing away from you. Blaming others and playing the roll of self pity is a selfish act and will drive everyone away from you. You will stand alone. It seems wiser to me to focus on something that has value and will endure. To live a lie is a sad agreement to make with your soul, but when you separate yourself from the natural law you have created a deadly enemy.

Long ago, Creator built this world for all colors of the people. He created the Red people, the White people, the Black people and the Yellow people and gave them their place on Mother Earth. He taught each race a different way. How to live their life and to never infringe their ways upon another. He promised if they would abide by his request they would always have plenty and be at peace. If the people did not adhere to his words, it would bring confusion and pain to the giver and the receiver no matter the color of the skin.

We as a world citizen can still follow those original rules and rebuild our communication skills among all races. Too many people have died and suffered because of this disrespectful infringement. We can no longer follow the corrupted belief system of MONEY AND POWER! Why! Because this kind of lifestyle is based on hate and greed which is unnatural. Why struggle and fight with dead shadows. Why become one of the government sheep that is being led to slaughter. Re-awaken your original values about all life. Go back to the beginning when Creators natural laws ruled the land. Stop letting the governments fear tactics control you. Donít believe the political propaganda or let the rah, rah speeches romance you into a place of illusion. What is it going to take before we realize that our government is sucking the life out of Mother Earthís body? What will we do when we no longer have a planet that will produce food, good water and clean air? How long do you think it is going to take before some scientific fool blows up this planet?
As the old people say: Go to your roots and find your face. If you donít have one then build it from your core self. Why do our men have to die to fulfill the greed of the leaders in this country? What is the real purpose behind war? Study the history of the destructive human race, right up to the war we are now facing. Is it for protection of our country or is it to gain the control of all the OIL GAS AND MINERALS ON MOTHER EARTH? What about the nuclear waste being stored in Yucca Mountain, Nevada, twenty mile from beautiful Las Vegas. This deadly matter will travel across your land and we could see another Chernobyl. It is the brilliancy of these great godly scientist that built this destructive matter in the first place. But I ask, why canít they spend our wasted tax dollars and take the damn thing apart and put it back to its natural state from whence it came!

Men, stand up, the world can be a better place with you ALIVE and WELL. Your childrenís children must be protected from the demi- gods of government office. Its time to repair what is broken in our society, only then can you begin a good life journey for our childrenís children. Never be separated from yourself again. A strong man will hang on to his pipe and pray their way back to a good life. The key to life is a choice for your childrenís continued existence. You actions and thoughts will dictate the manner you wish for your childrenís children to live tomorrow. Daily prayer is the doorway to your heart. Great Spirit never gives any of his children a burden they cannot handle. Awaken your spiritual values and teach your sonís sons the value in being a true man. Take the time and tell your son the truth about your life, being very clear about your real story?

A true man respects all life and holds himself close to the principles of truth. A true man encourages and holds a high regard for sharing. A true man knows he does not depend upon himself alone. A true man is patient with others as the Great Spirit is with him. A true man is fair and just. A true man leaves something behind for his children. A true man can sing his death song without fear and sorrow.
All my Relations
Mahinto

From ShaTonga deskÖÖÖÖÖ

It takes courage to be imperfect, but it takes a coward to run from a battle. Tashunkwitko Crazy Horse never ran from a battle. Tashunkwitko, means: His Horse is Crazy. He was born in the middle of the 1800ís and died approximately thirty three years later between the year of 1860 to 1877. Crazy Horse was the nephew of Chief Spotted Tail and the son of a medicine man. The old people say Crazy Horseís first name was Curly, but some called him, Strange One. He was fair skinned, medium brown hair and had a kindly manner. He did not receive the name Crazy Horse until after his first battle at the age of about sixteen. As he grew older and became a Dog Soldier, this great hero was known to take no scalps. A member of the Strong heart society, a courageous warrior with great vision and an outstanding commanding stature. All women respected and admired this man thinking him exceptionally handsome, refined, gentle and courteous.

Crazy Horse was trained in the old ways of the Sioux and nothing was ever overlooked even the smallest of his flaws to make sure he became a man in the proper way. He adhered to this rigorous training and kept to the old tribal customs in all aspects as he attained his manhood.

He wanted peace and freedom for his people and fought many battles so they could continue to live and roam freely over the land. From a young man, many people tried to hang on to Crazy Horse but none ever held him. As a very young man, Crazy Horse went on his vision quest with humility. He had a strong vision of a warrior on horseback riding through a storm. When the storm had subsided, a red hawk flew over the riderís head. He related his vision to his father who was also called Crazy Horse, a medicine man. He enlightened his son to the meaning of his spiritual gift feeling proud that his sonís greatness would come in the future and be known as the greatest of warriors. This symbolic power came in the form of a small stone that he place behind his ear before battle. His paints were a lightening bolt painted on his cheek, and his body was marked with white paints of hail stones. At the age of sixteen Crazy Horse had conquered his mortal fears and had taking the name of his father.

From that day forward, Crazy Horse rode into battle as a great Warrior, his hair hanging free, a stone behind his ear and a red hawk feather in his headdress.
Everyone understood the strong warrior Crazy Horse who kept to his uppermost principles for the good of his people. Too many times this honorable man saw his people almost destroyed by the white man and was very hostile toward the white race.

The quote: It seems like a good day to die, is accredited to Crazy Horse. This leader of men believed in fighting the resistance that was forcing his people to live on reservations. He was known as an organizer and a great leader in battle as well as Chief of his people. He believed that life and death were the same. If you look to the massiveness of the sky surely it proves his point, life does go far beyond our world. Even in defeat, this great warrior remained an independent spirit.

There are two stories about the death of this great man. Sept 1877, he left the reservation without permission to take his ill wife to her parents. General Crook ordered his arrest. Crazy Horse did not resist until he realized he was going to be imprisoned. Some say when he realized the guards were taking him to the guard house he revolted. He was held by the guard and drug along the ground when one of the soldiers drove a bayonet through him from behind. He was placed in the guard house left to die. Crazy Horse left for the spirit world sometime during the night. Another story I have heard states; Early one morning Crazy Horse was being led through the crowd when one of his own people stepped forward and stabbed him in the chest. Crazy Horse fell to the ground dying.

I remember as a little girl I always felt alone and afraid of life. My grandmother once said, ìGranddaughter someday I will no longer be by your side. Do you see that star up in the sky that stands still. Some people call it the North Star. I call it Crazy Horse Star. Whenever you feel you can go no further, look up and remember the power of this fearless man. Ask him to help you gather your courage and strength, so you can fight another battle. I promise if you come right and with good cause he will always be there for you.î I believed my grandmother and even today I still call upon the power of Crazy Horse.

But what puzzles me most is the lack of understanding of the Indian language. The Indian never had a name for horse. When they saw their first horse they called him big dog, Shunka Tanka. Can you explain to me why people use the greatest of Indian warriors name to call their bars, brothels, business and menís clubs his name? Do they think they can actually carry the abilities of this kind of man? Or is it the lack of education in the meaning of Crazy Horse. If said in English, they are calling themselves the crazy big dog. If they need a name of power to believe in, why donít they name their bars, brothels and menís clubs after their great white leaders! such as: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson. In fact, why donít they use a name of one of the European kings? Since they choose not to, it makes me wonder if any of these high officials ever had any abilities to be admired or were any of these leaders ever considered to be a man?

In the old ways the people believed a picture could capture the soul. There was never a picture of Crazy Horse yet they continue to paint and sculpture this man. So who is this person that can sculpture a form of Crazy Horse on Mount Rushmore without an original picture. Or does he use his imagination and make up what he believes to be Crazy Horse. Or did the spirit of Crazy Horse come back and teach this White Man?


JAKE THE PHILSOPHER,COUNSELOR

Well! Well! Well!

Hi everyone, thank you for the E.mail. This month I want to be polite and introduce you to the rest of my big family. My original name is, Jake Lamota, the terrier, but they call me Jakey. Then there is ShaTonga, the wolf, Corky, the Dalmatian and Boogie Bear, the beagle. Oh yes! We have the big boss Toby, a fifty year old, blue gold macaw.

Since last monthís newsletter, I am really enjoying using my Coyote power. In fact, I am becoming very good. This month ShaTonga told me about the Dog Soldiers who used wolf power and wear her ancestors skins into battle.

Iím sure all of you know she is a warrioress. Iíve never been a fighter, but I did have one battle in my life. Our nice neighbors have grandchildren. They celebrated Easter and purchased a bunny for the children. As time past, the rabbit grew up and somehow dug a hole under our shared fence. As you know, Iím small and weigh about ten pounds, but have an attitude. Well, when I saw this rabbit hiding under our bushes, I went outside and growled, barked and snapped at him. He stood perfectly still. I knew he was making his plans to attack me. I was very angry that he dare cross my boundaries so I ran in for the attack, but the rabbit did not respond. In puzzlement, I charged forward again and snapped at him, but still he stood his ground. Suddenly without warning, the rabbit took his big feet and kicked me all over the backyard. I was never so afraid in my life. From that day forward, I make it a point to check the backyard for rabbits. For the last year, he has even tried to trick me by changing the color of his fur. What a clever fellow he is. I remember out camping once and looked up at the moon. I was shocked to find that rabbit sitting up on the moon.

From that battle, the mommie nicknamed me Rabbit and to please her, I run and jump like a rabbit to hear her laugh.

Sometimes my humans tell others my traumatic experience with the rabbit. ShaTonga understood my embarrassment and agreed that they should never stoop to this kind of ridicule. She told me that she would always protect me from these furry bullies and if she ever saw one, we would celebration with rabbit stew.
Thank you. See you next month.
Jakey

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