Chapter 6 of Seekers of Dream Time

Written on August 26, 2010 at 8:04 am, by Leo Sawicki

SPEAKS FROM THE HEART

“To make this story more interesting I will tell you a story about a mother telling her children a story,” Aki Ikwe said. “This story is about one who works for the good of all and who must face a challenge. If you are ready, I will begin,” she smiled.

Whispering Wind was sitting inside the tent sewing by the fire as her two children came and sat next to her. “Mother, it is to early to sleep, please tell us a story,” Bright Eyes said as she sat her brother Little Porcupine Quill next to her mother. Whispering Wind smiled as she laid the beadwork down, “I will tell you a story about Speaks from the Heart who lived in the Interlake next to the woodlands. This is a story about Speaks from the Heart.

As the people traveled between summer and winter camps every time they would enter a new camp Speaks from the Heart would sit with the Elders . She was even invited to travel with medicine people from the four directions and Elders to attend special ceremonies and healings. In time she became a helper and after many years she created a medicine wheel to share this knowledge.

One day Speaks from the Heart was invited to speak at the Elders gathering from across the prairies. Waban, Medicine man she traveled with health was failing. His toe had lost its circulation and turned black. To stop the black from spreading the toe had been cut off and he could not make the trip. “

“Lost a toe,” Bright Eyes groaned as she grabbed the bottom of her foot.

Whispering Wind replied, “If you wish me to continue you must sit very quiet and listen. It is not polite to interrupt a story teller”, she reminded them. “You can save your questions for the end of the story.” Bright Eyes and Little Porcupine promised to listen and their mother continued. “Speaks from the Heart had been invited to share her knowledge of the medicine wheel with the Prairie Elders. She told Waban at she would travel to the gathering on her own then gathered her medicine wheel and enough supplies for the journey and set out early one morning on her mustang. The sky was gray and rain drizzled making everything damp and cold. As she traveled she saw a young warrior whose head hung down and footsteps dragged. He had no shirt nor carried anything in his hands. He was so deep in thought he didn’t even look up when she rode up next to him.

“You look like you are lost. Where are you going?” Speaks from the Heart asked the young man.

The young man looked at her with surprise and replied, “I am going across the prairies to my brothers camp to see if he will take me in.”

“I am going in that direction . You can ride with me if you like“, Speaks from the Heart told him. “I have food and drink. It is a good distance and you don’t really look prepared,” she said guessing from his pathetic appearance.

The young man agreed. “I am cold, hungry and tired from walking,”

Speaks from the Heart slid off her horse and gave him the blanket she was riding on. He gratefully took it along with food and water . “How is it that you are traveling unprepared? “ she asked him.

“It is a short story,” the young man replied. “My name is Blue Thunderbird. I was a fire keeper in my village. I left the valley to take a wife. We did not get along and in the middle of the night we had a fight. She threw me out. So I decided to travel to my brothers camp and see if he will take me in so I can start again.”

Speaks from the Heart listened. When Blue Thunderbird sat quietly for a minute she shared the medicine of her wheel. “The medicine of the wheel is simple and as a fire keeper you will understand this. If there is no respect then there is no relationship,” she said. “Pain is a sign for change”.

“Are you some kind of medicine person that just travels around sharing these teachings,? Blue Thunderbird asked as the horse picked up pace and headed west.

“Usually I only speak when I am invited.“ she replied, “and this time I am invited to speak at the prairie elders gathering. “

The time passed quickly as they shared the last of the food and a long road across the open prairies. They arrived at the fork in the path where Blue Thunderbird would be stopping and Speaks from the Heart would continue towards the South West.

As Blue Thunderbird jumped from the mustang he asked Speaks from the Heart to ask the elders to pray for him. Speaks from the Heart said she would and Blue Thunder gave her the high sign for safe passage and pointed in the direction the rest of her journey would take.

Speaks from the Heart arrived late that evening where the medicine people and elders were camped. A sweat ceremony was about to start. She was given directions and followed a winding path into the forest where the stars seemed to be resting on the top of the trees.
She could hear voices as she came into a clearing and saw a woman sitting beside the fire. Behind her was the sweat lodge.

As Speaks from the Heart went to sit down beside the woman, the woman said , “I am Morning Star. I wondered who all those little fireflies were showing the way. Come with me. There are many people inside.” with that Morning Star entered the Lodge.

Speaks from the Heart was the last person to enter as the flap was closed behind her. She heard the Sweat Lodge Conductor speaking in a different language and was glad to hear an interpreter saying the Elder had prayed for all the people in side the sweat lodge. As the ceremony continued Speaks from the Heart asked the elders through her thoughts to pray for all people in general, this way Blue Thunderbird would be included. At the end of the last round, the Sweat Lodge Conductor announced a sunrise pipe ceremony in morning before the meeting was to begin.

Speaks from the Heart arrived early in the morning and joined the circle of men who were arriving and sitting in a circle on the ground. She was surprised that no women were in the circle and wondered when the ceremony would begin. Suddenly she felt a tap on her shoulder as one of the women whispered to her that it was a men’s pipe ceremony. Speaks from the Heart was surprised as she was a pipe carrier. Out of respect for their way she got up and joined the women who were arriving.

When the pipe ceremony was over the men joined the women in the circle. Speaks from the Heart was asked to present the medicine wheel teachings. She took her medicine wheel and began to walk the circle speaking about the meaning of each stone and what is required to walk in balance. Some of the elders asked her to stop as they studied the wheel. When Speaks from the Heart was finished she stood in the middle of the circle waiting for questions.

One woman began crying and pointing at Speaks from the Heart. The more she talked the louder she became and the more she cried.

Speaks from the Heart clenched her fists to hold back tears of surprise and reminded herself to breathe. As the woman continued Speaks from the Heart stepped back and asked another woman beside her what was being said.

“ I am from the north and do not understand what she is saying.“ the woman replied, then she smiled and said, “ nor do half the people because we are from all over so do not be concerned.”

When the woman who was crying sat down a grandmother from the West stood up and stepped into the circle. As she walked she gave each person pinch of tobacco and spoke. “It is not our way to show disrespect to one who has been invited. My people believe there is a Spirit that comes once every forty or fifty years. If the people are sleeping it goes away, but if someone is awake Spirit will work through that person. Spirit does not know color.” As the grandmother was talking Speaks from the Heart looked at the trees and the leaves took the shape of an eye. She breathed deeply and sent out a prayer of gratitude knowing the nature spirits were watching to see what was happening.

Another grandmother form the East spoke. “There are many ways. I have heard Speaks from the Heart talk at another gathering. This information and the way it is presented has helped me remember when I am working with my people. This way is a good way. I thank this one for the courage to stand in this circle today.”

When she had finished speaking a grandmother from the North flew into the circle and pointed to everyone as she spoke. “What is the matter with you who sit quietly. I claim Speaks from the Heart as my sister. For years we have worked with the medicine wheel and tried to find a way for all people to understand . When something good comes along, this is what always happens“, she said as she pointed at the first woman who had been crying. “I will stand in this circle and work with what Speaks from the Heart has presented” .

Speaks from the Heart was amazed at the peoples reaction. How could something as simple as a medicine wheel concept cause such a reaction. At that point an Elder stood up and spoke. “I call on turtle medicine to slow things down. I suggest we take a break.”

When the gathering was over that evening Speaks from the Heart went to a butte overlooking the land and laid flat on the earth. Overhead two eagles circled as she listened to Mother Earth’s heart beat and gave prayers of thanks. When she saw a star in the south and another in the north she knew the ancestors would light her way.

The next morning as Speaks from the Heart prepared to leave the people wished her a safe journey.

At that point Whispering Wind hugged Bright Eyes and Little Porcupine Quill and said, “So you see my children, when a person speaks from the heart they will always be protected, and that is as far as this story goes for tonight.”

The children thanked their mother for her story. Bright Eyes thought for a minute then looked at her mother and asked, “Was that girl you?”

As the story ended, Aki Ikwe glanced around the tee-pee. One more of her grandchildren had fallen asleep and she smiled. “Perhaps it is time we all slept,” she said.

“Tell us another story Grandmother,” the children pleaded. Aki Ikwe was starting to get tired herself, but she agreed.

Story Origin
This could be a true story. Those who were there will remember it.

Activity
Find something that you believe in and are committed to. Identify all the ways you can gain knowledge and the places you can volunteer. Take the next step and make a commitment. Write a monthly report on the things

HOH, Chapter 5

Written on August 20, 2010 at 7:37 am, by Leo Sawicki

When everyone was settled Aki Ikwe looked around the fire. “It seems that with each story I tell, one of my grand children falls asleep,” she smiled. “This is a story that will make you smile and even maybe cry. I know it did for me,” she said as she began,

“This story starts with this small dog about two years old. People who own it treat the dog badly and keep it in a cage. I don’t seem to remember them ever letting it out to run. If the dog barked or disobeyed an order they took great delight in punishing it. The dog was made to stand on its hind legs for long periods of time. One day those two people decided to break camp. They didn’t want to be bothered with the small dog so they gave it to a young girl called Lost Moccasin.

“Keep the dog in this cage or it will bark all night”, the man told her as they left.

Lost Moccasin was overwhelmed. Her parents had died when she was a baby and she had been handed around to relatives staying for periods of time and always feeling lost. Some of her aunts treated her like she was in the way, others only wanted her to work from morning to night. Everyday she thought of leaving but was afraid to be alone. But now, with this dog, her whole life was about to change.

Lost Moccasin made up her mind to leave. She looked into the dogs eyes as it looked back at her and said, “You are going to need a name. The medicine people say “Hoh” when something is good. Your name will be “Hoh” because you are good for me.” Then she opened the door of the cage, reached into her pocket and took out a piece of smoked deer meat and gave it to the small dog.

“Come Hoh,” she tried to coax the small dog out of the cage and finally reached in and pulled him out. “We have to move quickly ,” she said as she saw a piece of rope on top of the cage. “I’ll only keep this rope around you till you are used to me,” she promised as she slipped it around the small dogs’ neck and started to walk towards the trees. “We will go to the abandoned summer camp on the other side of the lake,” she said.

The small dog would not move. It just stood there as Lost Moccasin pulled gently on the rope. “We have to go before we are noticed Hoh,” she said. The small dog tried to go back into its cage. “I will just have to carry you ,” she sighed and lifted the small dog into her arms.

The small dog started to lick her face and tug on her ear lobe. Lost Moccasin laughed and hugged the small dog as it tried to wiggle out of her arms. She didn’t want to stop or rest for long in case someone sent out a search party. Her feet carried them swiftly as they made their way north along the lake shore. Lost Moccasin talked and pointed out small animals and things of interest. Hoh had given up trying to get out of her arms and was resting its head over her shoulder . When Lost Moccasin thought they were safe she put the small dog down and sat on a tree stump. “You and I will be friends. We will look after each other,” Lost Moccasin told the small dog. The small dog gave a bark as if it understood. Lost Moccasin laughed and reached down to pat the small dog as it cowered and looked afraid.

“It’s ok Hoh, you can bark. I would never hurt you.” she said as she patted the small dog.
Lost Moccasin spoke gently, “See we are already friends. We still have some distance,
so lets go,” she said as she stood up and started walking.

Hoh jumped up against her leg and wanted to be carried. Lost Moccasin picked him up walked till the sun started going down. “We’ll stop here and tomorrow reach our new home, “ she said. Lost Moccasin took the dog to the waters edge and walked in. Hoh stood on shore for a moment, had a drink and started to explore. Lost Moccasin gathered branches and built a shelter for the night under the bow of a large tree. Hoh kept trying to pull the branches out of Lost Moccasins’ hands. In between playing and working the shelter went up and the two sat together listening to the night sounds. A bond had started to grow.

Lost Moccasin slipped one end of the rope around the dogs’ neck and tied the other end around her wrist. “This is so we stay together for the night. I will take it off in the morning, “ she promised as she laid down to sleep . Hoh was so happy he had someone to sleep beside. The small dog ran up and down Lost Moccasins’ side. First he licked her toes. Lost Moccasin giggled. “Lay down. Time to Sleep,” she scolded Hoh. Hoh ran up to her head and grabbed her ear lobe gently pulling and growling. Lost Moccasin pushed her finger between her ear and Hoh teeth as she laughed. She put one arm around the small dog and he started to tug on her clothing. Finally she was able to settle the happy dog down and they slept. The two became best friends overnight.

The next day they reached the shore of the deserted summer camp. As Hoh marked territory along the shore line Lost Moccasin piled poles and packed mud in-between. The small dog caught a bird and by nightfall the bird was caked in mud and roasting on the hot embers of a camp fire. The two sat side by side under the stars. They had walked a great distance and Lost Moccasin feet were aching. As she patted the small dog’s back Hoh licked her toes as the two of them enjoyed each others company.

As the days turned into months their camp became comfortable. The lake and the forest offered them everything they needed. Lost Moccasin talked to Hoh from morning to night and Hoh came to understand her every word. When she moved the dog moved. When she ate the small dog pulled on her sleeve and she couldn‘t feed it fast enough. Even eating became a game and Hoh ate everything Lost Moccasin did including nuts, berries and wild fruit.

The months grew to years and the small dog watched out for Lost Moccasin. If Hoh went of exploring and was gone for any length of time, Lost Moccasin would only have to wonder where he was and within a very short time Hoh would find her. It was as if they could read each others thoughts and the love between them grew beyond description.

With Hoh as Lost Mocassins’ protector, companion and best friend they shared every moment. For the first time in her life Lost Moccasin was happy. For the first time in the small dogs life he was loved and cared for.

At night when she slept Hoh would hear something. He would sit by her head letting out a low growl to let her know. Often she would get up in the middle of the night, hug Hoh and take him for a walk along the shore. Her constant talking to the small dog made enough noise to scare anything away and also wake up the water spirits. The shore had been quiet for a long time and now it was filled with life, love and laughter.

The years slipped by as Lost Moccasin and Hoh enjoyed each others company and were inseparable. One morning Lost Moccasin heard Hoh yipping and crying out in pain. She found him laying on his side unable to get up or move. As she gently rolled him over on his stomach she knew something was very wrong. Putting her hands on either side of him she began to pray. Pulling light rays from the sun into the small dogs motionless body she spoke softly and ran her hands gently up and down him well after grandmother moon had risen in the night sky.

From that point on Hoh caused her great concern. Their long walks and running along the water turned into short walks and long periods of the small dog laying in discomfort. Lost Moccasins’ heart grew heavy. She would look at the dog and tears of sorrow would fall. Hoh would come over and lick her then lay down at her feet. For many nights the small dog sounded like it was in pain. It whined and tried to get comfortable and began to make loud painful moans. Lost Moccasin was terrified. Whatever she tried could not make Hoh better. She decided to take him to the medicine man back in her village. She traveled for two days and two nights without stopping. When she arrived at the medicine lodge the old man was surprised to see her. As he went to take the small dog from her arms Hoh growled and snapped, nipping the old mans’ hand.

“He has never bitten before, “,Lost Moccasin apologized as she put the small dog down. Hoh barked and growled and suddenly fell over with its feet going straight out.

The old medicine man put his hand on Lost Moccasins shoulder. “Your dog is in pain. It is his heart,” the old man said. “It is his time to go. You can leave him with me and I will look after it.” Lost Moccasin was blinded by her own tears as she knelt down to comfort Hoh.

“I can’t let him die grandfather. There must be something that you have to stop his pain. Please help us,” she cried as she gathered the small dog back into her arms.

The medicine man could see the love the two had for each other. He went to his medicine bundle and pulled out some heart medicine. “Put this in your dogs drinking water. Now you must understand that a dog does not live forever and the best thing is to put it out of its pain.”

Lost Moccasin began to sob. As she cried the small dog licked her tears which caused her to cry even more. The medicine man was moved with compassion. “All I can do now is pray for you grandchild. Your small dogs time has come. You must be strong. “

Lost Moccasin thanked the medicine man for the medicine and carried Hoh back to their camp. She Could not bring herself to let him go. When he could not walk she carried him. When he fell over she picked him up and cradled him in her arms. When he could not get up to drink she would bring him water and give it to him by sticking two fingers into the bowl. Hoh would lick the water from her fingers.

Every day the small dog slept in longer and longer. Sometimes it ate. Often it didn‘t and became so weak that when she tried to take it for a walk Hoh fell over. Every day Lost Moccasin held Hoh and prayed for the small dog to get better. She called for the water spirits to help. Every day she cried and every day the small dog’s health slipped away and it was in more and more pain. Finally Lost Moccasin couldn’t stand it any longer. She knew the medicine man was right. This was the hardest thing she had ever done. Hoh could no longer move. Lost Moccasin gathered the small dog back into her arms and walked back to the medicine mans’ lodge.

“Grandfather, his pain is to great,“ Lost Moccasin said as she laid the small dog on the ground. The medicine man gently rested his hand on Lost Moccasins’ shoulder. Searing tears of great loss tore through her heart as she could not speak and turned to go. Hoh sensed something different and tried to scurry on his belly towards Lost Moccasin. The bottom of her heart fell out as the medicine man motioned for her to leave. Lost Moccasin walked the two days and nights back to her camp in tears and prayer.

Sitting on the shore crying, sobbing, and broken hearted she did not hear the young man who appeared out of no where. The nature spirits, who took great delight in the years of laughter Lost Moccasin and Hoh shared along the lake shore, now took pity on her and changed a wolf into a young man to keep her company.

“Your sorrow and tears keep your dogs’ spirit bound to the earth when it should be free to travel the heavens,” the young man said as he sat next to Lost Moccasin. “Only think of the good things you shared,” he advised.

Lost Moccasin was surprised and gasped. “Where did you come from and how do you know why I cry ,” she sobbed.

The young man took her hand in his and comforted her. “My name is Lone Wolf. I have watched you and your small dog for years from across the lake. Often I wondered what it would be like to experience the love and companionship you shared. If you would like some company I would like to stay with you,” the young man offered.

Tired from walking and crying and not wanting to be alone Lost Moccasin gave a faint smile. “I would like that,” she said as the young man put a blanket around her shoulders. Lone Wolf began to build a fire and talked about knowing it was best for her small dog to go now.

“Your dog was a good friend and your protector. You don’t have to answer now, but if you let me, I would try to take its place,“ Lone Wolf said as he sat down across from Lost Moccasin.

When the fire was going and her emotions had calmed down Lost Moccasin picked up her hand drum and began to sing Hoh over to the other side. She thought of all the loving times and the joy the small dog gave her. She sang a song of thanks. When she finished drumming a sense of peace prevailed. She looked over at Lone Wolf who shared the fire and thanked him for his company. “There is nothing left for you here,“ Lone Wolf said as Lost Moccasin nodded her head in agreement. “In the morning, if you decide, we can cross the lake the travel together. For now you must rest.

The morning came and Lost Moccasin gathered up the things she would take. Lone Wolf prepared the canoe. “Ready?” he asked Lost Moccasin who was standing in the middle of her camp remembering all the loving times she and Hoh had spent in each others company. “Yes,” she sighed. There is one more thing I wish to do,” she said as she placed Hohs’ favorite toy on the beach. “I will leave this here for Hoh in case he visits so that he will have something to play with” she said.

“And so it is, Aki Ikwe said as she looked around and saw a tear or two spill down some of the children’s faces. She continued, “It is not a sad story. Lost Moccasin found her center of love was to be love and the difference between loving relations and being in love was yet to unfold. We will all face the loss of a loved one my grandchildren and in the end, it is the quality of time we spend together that counts,” she said as her heart swelled with love for the children that surrounded her.

“Can you please tell us another story Grandmother,” the children asked.

Story Origin
The pain of loosing a loving pet.

Activity
Create a pet poster. Take a large sheet of paper. Put your pet’s picture in the middle. If you don’t have a picture, draw one. Around the picture list special headings like, original habitat, favorite food, favorite things to do, special stories, things pet does that makes it special and how to care for your pet. You may have to do some research. If you don’t have a pet, think of one you would like to have then research its

4th Short Story in the New Collection entitled SEEKERS OF DREAM TIME

Written on August 12, 2010 at 11:17 am, by Leo Sawicki

THE GATHERING

“This is only the 4th story and already I have put three of you to sleep,” Aki Ikwe smiled as the smallest of her grandchildren lay bundled by the fire. If you are ready, this story is about making peace with each other,” she began.

“Ever since they could walk and talk Light Wind and Hummingbird were the best of friends. The two girls were inseparable. If they weren’t teasing their brothers or playing tricks on their aunts and uncles you could find them laying in the grass reading the clouds.

One day Light Wind couldn’t wait to finish her chores and meet up with Hummingbird to tell her she had overheard her parents talking about deciding on a suitable husband for her. As she rushed through bringing water from the stream she saw Hummingbird approaching. Light Wind placed the water container inside the lodge, ran over to her friend, grabbed her hand and excitedly said “Quick, Hummingbird I have something to tell you“.

As they ran to their favorite place Hummingbird laughed, “I thought I was coming to tell you something.” The two girls fell to their knees and then laid out on the ground looking up at the sky. When they caught their breath Hummingbird propped herself up on her right elbow, and said, “OK, you first .”

Light Wind sat up, leaned forward and told Hummingbird what she had overheard. Hummingbirds’ mouth dropped open. “That’s what I was coming to tell you.” They fell back to the ground giggling and talking about which one each might marry. Because their tribe had been at war for as long as they could remember all the young men had been wounded or killed in battle. This left only the very old or those who were already married. “It doesn’t seem fair that our parents will have to choose a husband from our tribe.

Hummingbird looked terrified. “Can you imagine . No Tooth, that old one has been coming around more than usual. Sometimes I catch him looking at me and my mother sends me out to get something so I can not hear what my father and he are talking about.” She grabbed her throat and made a gurgling sound. “If I am to marry that one, I will strangle myself before the wedding night.”

“And what about me” Light Wind gasped. “Bad Breath, the one no woman will have, is always trying to follow me and when he sees me he rushes over to see if he can help with whatever I am doing. I have to stand five feet away so he doesn’t breathe on me.” I will take a spear and put it between two rocks then throw myself at it if he is the one my parents choose.”

The girls laughter turned to anguish and disgust.

Later that evening the women gathered in the Women’s’ Lodge at the place where the two rivers met. Grandmothers, daughters and their daughters took their place in the circle. Woman Who Stands Strong welcomed everyone, as her helper softly tapped a hand drum. Then she asked everyone to stand and called on the Great Spirits and the four directions offering smudge and prayer to join them.

As the sage was lit and passed around Light Wind took the eagle wing in one hand and the smudge bowl in the other and smudged. The sharp scent activated her senses as she breathed deeply and drew the smoke towards her heart area so that all her actions would be guided by love. As she continued to draw the smoke towards her throat she prayed that she speak only kind words, towards her nose to remember all lessons, over her ears to hear what is being said and what is not, towards her eyes to see what is there and what is not, towards her head for clear thought and down through her waist and legs for new energy and to walk in a good way. Finally she drew the smoke over her body to remove any negativity that may have attached to her. She handed the smudge bowl to the next person and watched as it made its way around. The women stood in respect until the last person was finished and placed the smudge bowl by the front alter then everyone sat down.

The oldest of the women, One Who Listens spoke. “It is good to see two new faces, “ she said as she welcomed Light Wind and Hummingbird. Low mummers of welcome from everyone could be heard. She continued, “As mothers of this nation the sisterhood offers each other strength and courage. In this Lodge we speak of things that affect our way of life and provide direction to our men. For now you will watch and someday you will be expected to lead part of these gatherings.”

Woman Who Stands Strong thanked the old woman for speaking and held up a talking stick. “Those of you who sit in this circle have earned the right to hear the words that will be spoken this day. As sisters, we share our understanding and come to know the responsibility we carry for the well being of our people.” With that she handed the talking stick to the person on her right.

In the meantime the men had gathered in the council hut and sat crossed legged in a circle. The Council of Elders had come to realize that their ancestors ways were no longer their ways. With so few young men left to protect or hunt their numbers were threatened. Too many wars and hard feelings. Lost too much and gained to little.

As Chief, Man of Courage spoke first. “As a man of peace, I share a concern for our young warriors, those who live for revenge. New blood is required, not old blood spilled. Our blood line is thin. Intermarriage is required. New blood brings new life. Mother Earth provides more than we need and yet we are fewer in number and continue to fight. We must acknowledge that all people have suffered great loss and move on. ”

“I agree, Black Wolf said. “ There is no longer a need for battle. We are farmers , hunters and gathers. We learn from the past, we cannot change it. Look at the old ones who cannot let go. Their bodies are withered and breaking, just as their hearts as they hold onto loss and anger. Their spirits are shriveled and while they walk they do not live nor does life wish to be around them.”

“This is true,” Loud Thunder spoke. “We must be careful of the stories we carry. We can carry only our own stories. The old ways are gone. Change must begin now with us. We must create new stories and new relations.“

A young man named Red Hawk stood up and challenged the Elders Circle. “Do you cry for our people or for yourselves? And what about our fathers and their fathers lives that were taken?”

His uncle put a hand on his leg for him to sit down. “Slow down my son. If there is something you do not like in another it is time to look deep within and ask yourself why. We are mirrors of each other.“ Then he turned to the council and said, “Forgive my nephew. If we wish peace and a good life for our children we must show peaceful ways and tolerance. I agree that we must teach through our actions and begin new stories.”

Man of Courage was concerned as he looked at each person in the Elders circle. “We will enter into a peace treaty with the neighboring village. “ The Chief then looked at Red Hawk whose frustration showed on his face. “Red Hawk as you are ready to defend, when the day comes you will choose ten of our strongest warriors to accompany us. You will act as dog soldiers and stand guard watching for the slightest movement in body language, hand signals and eye movement“. The Elders nodded in agreement and Red Hawk appeared satisfied.

“Good, now we will present this idea to the women and children. If they agree, then Red Hawk will take two of our finest horses as gifts along with four warriors and ride out in the morning to the Chief of the Sioux and request that we approach them in peace to celebrate our good year and share in our harvest. Red Hawk, have one of your warriors watch from a safe distance in case they are not open to a treaty,” the Chief instructed. Red Hawk nodded.

Later that evening when the women and men returned to their tents there were many fires burning late into the night as the people talked of ways to enter into the peace treaty.

The next morning while the adults met in community council and agreed to a plan Hummingbird and Light Wind met in their favorite spot and shared their relief over the potential of a husband from another tribe. “Who knows,” Light Wind said, “No Tooth and Bad Breath might find Sioux women more attractive.” Both girls were excited and afraid at the same time. “My great grandmother would turn over in her grave if she knew we might be sleeping with the enemy,” Hummingbird giggled as the two talked about what strengths each wanted their husbands to have.

By nightfall Red Hawk and his braves returned with the news that the Sioux had agreed to meet on the day of the fifth sunrise at a halfway point between the two villages.

From then on the entire village was busy. It was decided they would share some of their legends, ceremonies, customs, art, dance and song. Gifts were being prepared as well as the order of entry.
“To show our good intent, the gifts will be carried by our children so that their people will see our intent is good, “ Man of Courage said as the people of the village met the day before the fifth Sunrise.

A handful of people stepped forward. “We do not wish to take part in this peace treaty,” an old one said. “I would rather spit in the face of an enemy than offer an open hand.”

“That’s right.” their children echoed.

A grandmother in support of the peace treaty spoke up. “Trust is earned. I know it is hard to change old ways. Even now I tremble inside thinking of tomorrow when we meet an old enemy. But these people are our grandparents enemies and not our children’s.”

Man of Courage agreed. “Those of you who wish to stay behind may do so. All we ask is that you have an open mind so that when we return you may see that this might be good for our children. It may take time, but at the very least our children’s children will come to know peace and then it will be up to them to change and grow according to their needs. ” The ones who did not wish to go could not argue with this and so they went away muttering bitter words.

Hummingbird spoke up. “Light Wind and I will be honored if we could be the first to follow the Chief and Council,” she said. “We have made star blankets and our jingle dresses make beautiful music. We can be in charge of assembling the young people.” With that everyone agreed and continued to make plans for the next day.

On the fifth morning the people assembled with their gifts and food. The medicine man called forth a blessing as he held his tobacco high. “I pray for right thought and action so that the sound of our drums wake up the people.” Holding his left hand out he continued, “I reach beyond the stars and extend my right hand into Grandfather Sun connecting fibers of light that will draw down healing rays so that the next generation may open their minds to right thought with all our relations.”

And so it was the people began a new journey and came together in celebration. Over time the two tribes married and introduced sport and competition through peaceful ways. Those who at first saw no sense and choose to sit out either embraced change or were left behind. And so it was new creation stories began. As the society changed so to did the way of the people who were born into it. And yes, Hummingbird and Light Wind were able to find husbands who cared for them and taught them new ways and they in turn shared these peaceful ways with their children and gave thanks every day.

“And that was only the beginning,” Aki Ikwe said as she ended the story. Two of
the grandchildren asked if they could be excused and hurried outside to do their business as those that remained moved closer to their grandmother and got comfortable. When the two returned and covered themselves up to their chins under the buffalo robes the children asked, “Grandmother, please tell us another story.”

Story Line
It was common practice for tribes and nations to war against each other over land and possessions. With time as the people became greater in number and less nomadic they began to make peace amongst each other. While the storyline is ancient, the fact is that today people, families, tribes and countries still make war amongst each other. Often those who started these wars have passed away and it is the children and their children’s children who continue to suffer.

Activity
Research the history of your culture. Speak to your parents and grand parents and visit your aunts and uncles collecting the stories they carry. Go to the library or get on the internet to collect information. Create a timeline then identify major changes that occurred. Now fast forward into the future and identify any changes you would like to see in your lifetime. Share these with your friends and family. Write an article for a school newsletter .

Chapter 3 in Seekers of Dream Time

Written on August 2, 2010 at 1:43 pm, by Leo Sawicki

“This story is about sharing knowledge,“ Aki Ikwe smiled as she looked at the faces of her grandchildren and they smiled back. “It is called Land of Giants“, she said as the children’s eyes opened wide in anticipation and she began.

“Little Elk and Coyote Pup were eager to try out their new bow and arrows. Their older brother, White Bear, patiently taught them how to hold the bow close to the cheek and draw on the strong rawhide so the arrow flew straight.

“Now you must practice. Aim for the hole in the stump of the tree. When you are good at it, you can come with the hunting party”, White Bear promised.

All summer Little Elk and Coyote Pup practiced. Food was becoming scarce and the hunting parties were going out more often and having to travel further to find enough food. Little Elk and Coyote Pup felt they were ready to join the older boys. As the hunting party prepared to leave camp they begged White Bear to take them.

“You are too young, White Bear told his brothers. “We have to travel great distances. It will be hard for you to keep up. Sometimes we go without catching anything for days. Sometimes we meet raiding parties who are also looking for food and must hide till they have passed. It is very dangerous. Besides, who will look after the women while we are away?”

Little Elk stood as tall as he could. “I have seen eight winters come and go. Every day we have practiced using the bow and arrows. Coyote Pup and I have brought back many rabbits and even a bird.”

Coyote Pup tried the voice of reason. “We don’t eat very much and are very good at hiding in the tall grass.”

White Bear smiled, “Being that you are so good at catching small game, you will be able to provide food while we are away,” he said . “You are needed at in the camp.”

Little Elk and Coyote Pup looked at each other and gave a big sigh as White Bear gently moved them back towards the camp then joined the scouting party that was leaving.

The two boys stopped and turned around to watch the men disappear over the hill. “We’ll follow them“, Little Elk said.

Coyote Pup thought this was a great idea. “By the time they realize we are following we will be too far from camp to send us back. “ The two boys set out as fast as they could.

For the first little while they were able to see them in the distance until the hunting party entered the forest. The sun rose higher and Little Elk and Coyote Pup grew tired. Running quickly turned into walking and now had become stumbling and falling as the land changed from rolling hills into tall forest.

“I don’t see them anymore,” Little Elk said in a tired voice. “Let’s rest and then we can pick up their trail.”

“O.K.“ Coyote Pup agreed as he dropped to his knees.

“Everything will be ok“, Little Elk said as he put his hand on Coyote Pups shoulder and sat down beside him. They had never been this far from camp and it was unfamiliar territory. While the forest provided shelter from the sun it also became cool as the evening approached.

Coyote Pup broke off two pieces of cedar from a nearby tree. “Put this in your moccasins little brother. It will protect us as we travel. We’ll make camp here and pick up their trail in the morning .”

Breaking branches off the trees they made a mat to lay on and covered up with the rest to hide them for the night. They wandered for many days and nights. The deeper they got into the forest the heavier the undergrowth and the taller the trees. In the mornings they gathered moisture from the tree branches which formed tiny water drops for drinking and throughout the day ate roots, mushrooms and berries while wishing for a good feed of meat and bannock.

One afternoon as they were hunting with their bow and arrows, Little Elk stopped so abruptly that Coyote Pup ran smack into him. “What is it?” Coyote Pup lowered his voice and stooped low.

“Quick, Get down,“ Little Elk said as he tugged Coyote Pups arm and pulled him to the ground. “Look, over there,” Little Elk pointed.

Never before had they seen such giants. Each giant was made up of different creatures and stood as tall as the trees. Little Elk and Coyote Pup stayed very still for a long time barely breathing. When the tall giants didn’t move they crawled closer for a better look.

Completely absorbed with the strange site before them they didn’t hear Woodpecker announce that a visitor was coming or the footsteps of an old woman. When she reached down and touched them Little Elk and Coyote Pup nearly jumped up to run away and tumbled over each other. The old woman’s laughter and kind smile helped to put them at ease as they managed to untangle themselves. When she spoke they didn’t understand her words. The boys shruggred their shoulders and held their open palms up. Little Elk tried to tell her they were lost but she too did not understand.

Judging by their style of clothing the old woman knew they were not from this place. She pointed to the tall giants and herself then made a sweeping hand motion to follow her. The two boys looked at each other and stood their ground. As the old woman walkied towards the monstrous creatures she glanced back to see if they were coming. When she saw they were still standing there she made a hand motion of rubbing her stomach and brought her hand to her mouth as if eating.

“I think she wants us to come with her” Little Elk said. “I think she is telling us she has food” Coyote Pup replied as the two boys stomachs helped them decide. “Or she might be saying she wants to eat us,“ Little Elk said.

They caught up to the old woman who was standing in front of one of the giants with her arms raised to the sky and singing a strange song. Little Elk could only stand in awe as he looked up. These were not giant monstrous creatures but huge carved poles with the head of a man and figures of animals and fish standing on top of each other. Coyote Pup nudged Little Elk as he let out a nervous giggle. The old woman finished her song and motioned for the boys to follow her.

When they arrived at her village where the great waters touch the land Little Elk and Coyote Pup were surprised by the angry crowd that surrounded them. They did not realize a raid had recently been carried out by their own scouting party and that one of the men in the village had been killed. When the people saw their style of clothing they demanded that the boys be killed. Little Elk and Coyote Pup watched in horror as the old woman pulled them beside her, held up her shaker and shouted something they couldn‘t understand . They were relieved when the people lowered their heads and stepped back . They were very lucky that the old woman was an important healer who had the respect of the people.

Many years passed. Little Elk and Coyote Pup learned the language. Little Elk became an apprentice to the carver of the giant totems. He learned how to choose the right red cedar, pray to the spirit of the tree, prepare the wood, create color from pigments by grinding minerals and helped to conduct the pole raising ceremony. Over time he carved many different poles that represented family origins, stories and achievements. His skills earned him a high ranking position in the village. So high in fact that he had asked the Chief if he could marry his youngest daughter.

Coyote Pup enjoyed being outside. He became the old woman’s fire keeper and accompanied her when she picked the medicines and helped prepare them. He learned how to harvest from the land and the sea, when animals and mammals began their migrations and to help the people store food for each season the earth changes brought.

One day a raiding party caught the village off guard. As the warring cries of the invaders sounded the people fled for their lives. Women were screaming. Children were crying. Men were shouting.

Little Elk heard the commotion and ran to see what was happening. He immediately recognized White Bear who was leading the assault. “Stop,” he shouted in their childhood language and ran towards the raiding party. “It is me, Little Elk, your brother.”

White Bear turned with fire in his eyes, let out a war cry and raised his spear. Showing no fear, Little Elk keep shouting and walking towards them. “White Bear. White Bear. I am your brother Little Elk. Do not harm this village.“

White Bear looked confused. Who was the man before him saying he was his brother?

Little Elk waved his hands and pointed in the direction of Coyote Pup who was running towards them. “Here is your brother Coyote Pup. Tell the men to put away their weapons”.

Coyote Pup also recognized White Bear and called out in their childhood language. “Our brother White Bear. Do not harm the people of this village. We will gladly share what we have.”

White Bear heard and understood their words. He let out a loud war cry and waved his spear in a circle high over is head.

Now his raiding party looked confused. Why was White Bear giving them the sign to regroup and follow him. Even the people of the village were confused as they watched the two young men confront the raiding party without weapons.

Little Elk quickly pulled a white cloth from his waist band, tore it in half and held it high as he approached White Bear. “Quickly my Brother,” he instructed White Bear as he handed him the cloth. “Do the same and we will spare blood shed this day.”

When the people saw what was happening the Chief of the Village stepped forward. Little Elk quickly explained to the Chief that these people were his brothers who were raiding the village because they were in need of food. Then he turned to White Bear and the raiding party and in his childhood language instructed them, “Put down your weapons. Brothers do not fight brothers“.

Neither the Chief nor the people of the village could understand what Little Elk and Coyote Pup were saying but they knew they were was very brave and thought that they had magical powers over the enemy.

When the confusion settled and White Bear and his raiding party sat on one side of a circle, the Chief of the Village and his people sat on the other, Little Elk and Coyote Pup sat in the center and acted as interpreters. Both sides were provided with an opportunity to speak.

When they had spoken the Chief stood up and said. “Because Little Elk and my daughter are to be man and wife, it is our custom that our two tribes unite in good relations. Little Elk will remain in our village. Coyote Pup has agreed to return with his people so he can share the knowledge he has learned in how to harvest food from the land. Tonight we will prepare a feast for our new relations and in the morning provide them with enough food and materials to see them safely back to their camp.”

That night the people honored Little Elk and bid farewell to Coyote Pup as the brothers reunited, gave thanks and shared stories deep into the night.

“And so it was“ Aki Ikwe said as she moved her legs to the side in a sitting position. “It looks like a few of my grandchildren are ready to sleep“, she said as smaller children pulled their blankets closer. Black Bear put two more logs into the fire as Aki Ikwe passed a bucket of water and a cup to each child. When the children had drank and were looking relaxed, Aki Ikwe pointed to the hole in the top of the tee-pee where the smoke was rising. “Look at how the stars are passing overhead in the night sky. Our ancestors have come to look in on us”, she said as the children peered through the small opening above. “Shall I continue?” she asked.
The children all agreed.

Story Origin
Living in Vancouver British Columbia on the West Coast in the mid 70s presented an opportunity to study the Totems in Stanley Park. I was fascinated by the imagery and magnitude of the art form of tall poles and their ability to display peoples legends and traditions. Equally impressive was the carving skills, imagination and creativity that the different poles represented.

Activity
Research ancient cultures and explore the different ways they built objects to communicate. In addition to the West Coast area, many original people of the earth including Egyptians carved massive columns, Mynas recorded their legends on entire walls and Polynesians carved totems from stone on the South Sea Islands. Draw these different styles. Look at today’s’ world and identify different monuments or landmarks. South Dakota in Yellowstone Park has carved Native Leaders, the statue of liberty in New York Harbor sends a message of freedom. Draw your family totem and share your story with others. You may wish to include a legend of your culture, a great deed and a special animal that has meaning to you. Use your imagination and learn from each other.

Second Short Story from Collection of Seekers of Dream Time

Written on July 21, 2010 at 8:55 am, by Leo Sawicki

STAR WALKER

“This story is about finding your purpose in life,“ Aki Ikwe said as she poured herself a cup of tea and took a sip. The older children allowed the smaller ones to move closer to their grandmother. When everyone was settled Aki Ikwe let the smallest child scramble up on her lap. “Good, now that everyone is comfortable, I will begin”, she said. “This one is called Star Walker.”

“Each person in the tribe had a responsibility. Morning Flowers’ role was to pray Grandfather Sun up. Evening Wind was given the responsibility to draw down the power of Grandmother Moon so that the heavens would stay in balance. So it seemed everyone had a role in the village except Bright Star.

Bright Star listened to her Grandmothers’ stories of the sun, moon and stars, of knowing that all is in a constant state of motion. In the time of her ninth winter and Bright Star asked her Grandmother “What is my purpose“.

“Wait a while little one”, her grandmother said. “First walk, then run.”

Each morning when Bright Star woke and listened to the sounds of the people of her village she stood outside her teepee looking up at the sky country and wondered how big and far it was. Spring arrived and she made a plan. Instead of sleeping that night she would look for the path of the milky way. Here she was certain she would find her answer.

When the sounds of the camp were quiet Bright Star picked up her drum and rattle, along with a pouch of food saved from the day before, and slipped into the forest. She decided to go in the direction of the mountain pass they had traveled to reach the winter pasture. She felt certain she could find the cliffs where her uncle, Strong Quill the village shaman, had stopped to pray and carve their passage on the rock face.

As she traveled through the night Bright Star beat her drum to keep her courage up and let the forest creatures know she was coming. She walked all night and just as the sun was rising she arrived at the face of the cliff.

Looking up at the immense overhang she saw the ruins of where others had lived but now were abandoned. The side of the cliff had symbols , carvings and pictures from travelers who had passed this way. Her uncle, Strong Quill, told her that this place was sacred and that the people who had lived in the rock face had returned to the stars.

Carefully choosing her footing she made her way up a steep path that had been carved in the stone and weathered by the wind. Over the tree tops, far below she could see an endless canyon filled with endless rock formations.

She finally reached the sheltered ledge and saw where stones had been piled to make separate areas. The rich red earth of the rock face provided. Gathering some loose stones, Bright Star made an alter then laid her drum and rattle on it.

Next she opened the pouch and pulled out a piece of dried meat. Breaking it in half she placed a piece next to the objects in a spirit offering and put a small piece into her mouth. Walking all night made her very tired. She leaned back against the mountain slowly chewing and watched as waves of morning dew shimmered and rose from the tree tops below.

She must of fallen asleep because the next thing she knew she woke up to a mid day sun overhead. Perhaps Raven had startled her from her rest.

“Why have you come to this place and do you have more food?” Raven cawed as it jumped up and down on her alter.

Bright Star sat up and straightened out her skirt brushing some dust aside. Then she straightened her braids and tried to look older. “I am to become a star walker so that I too can play an important role in my village and be able to keep the stars shinning through the night”, she said with such honesty that Raven was impressed.

“It is good that one so young is destined for something so important. For a piece of your food I will take you to the blue path of Spirit where you might find your answers”, Raven offered eyeing her pouch up and down.

“How do I know you can do this?” Bright Star asked as she pulled the pouch closer.

“Look around. See those pictures on the stone behind you”, Raven said spreading its wings in a circular motion and hopping side to side. “I can tell you what they mean.”

Bright Star knew Raven held magical powers and gladly shared what little food she had left. True to word, Raven started pointing at the different symbols and images. “This circular spiral is a record of the number of rounds to the north, east, south and west that your tribe has come through this area. The second circle moves in the opposite direction and shows how many times your people have returned.” Raven puffed its chest feathers out, very pleased with itself and hopped to the next picture.

Bright Star knew this was true because she had journeyed to this place and saw Strong Quill making the picture.

“This one,” Raven continued, “might look like a bird,. Come here and look closer. See this long tail with two human feet. It is a shaman who walks and can leave this world to fly to other worlds.”

Raven was only too happy to have such a willing student and pointed to picture after picture carved on the rock cliff. “ This mountain sheep with a hole in the center and an arrow pointing out is for good hunting medicine so the people will find plenty of food.”

In no time the afternoon slipped into late afternoon. Bright Star pointed to a rock painting of a large circle with a line through the center. “What about that one?” she asked.

Raven hopped back to get a better look . “That one is a magic shield that helps people travel through the air”, he replied.

“This is the one I will draw on the earth then sit in the center”, Bright Star said as she drew a large circle with a line through the center, picked up her rattle and stepped inside.

Raven became very interested. “I think I will come along”, and hopped inside the circle without waiting for an answer “Where are we going?”

Bright Star pointed up to the milky way in the evening sky. “Up there, ” she said as she closed her eyes, held the shaker with both hands and sang her calling song with all her heart.

Raven was again impressed with Bright Stars determination to draw down the star waves and decided to help. Flapping its magical wings the two of them were carried into the night sky. As they rose higher and higher they entered the blue path of Spirit. Bright Star was pleased to see so many people with strange yet familiar faces. As they set down she glanced at Raven to make certain they was really here.

An old man watched their arrival. He was surprised to see them. “Bright Star,” the old man spoke, “This is not your time.” He shook a finger at Raven and scolded, “You may have thrown everything off balance.”

Before Raven could respond, Bright Star spoke, “I am the one who wished us here. It is not Raven‘s fault.”

The old man shook his head and said with a deep sigh, “We all have a purpose. Bright Star, yours is to watch the sky and look for the passage of four star groups. The change of stars in the sky tell of a change of season. The position of the stars will tell you about changes in your food supply.”

Bright Star was happy, “Thank you grandfather”, she said and moved forward to take the old mans hand. The man stepped back onto the path before Bright Star could touch him.

“We can not undo what has been done but you must return immediately for your work is about to begin. Remember, it is said that the longest path is between the heart and the mind. The shortest journey is when it connects.” With that the old man pointed to Raven and said “Return to where you have come from.“

A great deal of time had passed between the time they had left and by the time they returned to the rock face. Bright Star looked at the circular patterns that showed her tribe had passed this way twice. “How can this be Raven?“ she was puzzled because things had changed.

Raven explained, “Spirit world has no sense of time. That is what the old man meant when he said we may have thrown everything off balance.”

Bright Star smiled at Raven as a sense of peace came over her. If the rock pictures were right, her people would be traveling this way again and she would take a rightful place of responsibility within her tribe.

To honor Raven she drew a picture of a black bird and carved an image of her hand print next to it so that all would know this was a magical place. When she was finished she turned around to show Raven what she had done. Raven was gone. All that she saw was a single black feather fluttering in the wind. She raised her arms to the sky and sent up a prayer of thanks for all things that would come to be.

“That is all……. Aki Ikwe said as she looked down at the child who was fast asleep in her arms and smiled. “Would anyone like to go outside?” she asked as she laid the sleeping infant on the ground beside her and reached up to take pieces of the smoked meat from the high wooden rack over the fire. As each child took a piece and passed the rest around she tuned to one of the older boys, “Black Bear, will you please feed the fire“. Black Bear got up and went out to bring back an arm full of chopped wood which he piled by the flap and added two pieces to the fire. A few of the children rolled over and stretched. Another one yawned. All seemed to be content. When Black Bear sat down Aki Ikwe continued, “If you are ready, I will tell you a another story.”

Story Origin
There are thousands of rock art sites throughout the northern states of Mexico to Utah and from California to Arizona engraved on cliffs, rocks or adjacent to ruins. On a trip to Sedona, Arizona , Rahellio, a local medicine man, took me to an ancient site of the Anasazi ruins in the Sinagua canyon area. Driving over rough terrain, then hiking through a forest area and climbing the face of a cliff we arrived at the ancient site that is now part of the state of Arizona’s’ restoration project. We studied rock art carvings and symbols which ranged in size and in form then sat in ceremony to honor the spirit of place as Rahellio played his flute and rattle which echoed throughout the canyon. Then we sat in silence and listened to the wind.

Activity
Every tribe and culture has ways of recording their stories. Take a large sheet of paper or hide and draw your creation story. You make wish to have everyone sit outdoors in a circle as you share your stories with others.

From a Recent Collection of Short Stories

Written on July 14, 2010 at 10:50 pm, by Leo Sawicki

When the winter solstice is in its longest night Aki Ikwe gathers her grandchildren in her tee-pee. Inside, the fire pit burns deep orange flames and casts dancing shadows on the skins that keep Winters’ chill outside. A high wooden rack over the fire pit holds smoked meat that gives off a good smell and a promise to relieve a hunger pang or two. The ground is covered in buffalo robes and provides a cozy place for the stories to unfold. Smells of dried herbs and fresh bannock invite all to enter and take their place in the circle. Once the children are somewhat settled and sprawled over each other, some laying on their stomachs or others sitting cross legged, Aki Ikwe picks up her drum and begins to sing a light song then the children join in one voice and the tee-pee appears to shake. This is followed by much laughter, then Aki Ikwe shares the stories she has woven over the summer.

“This story is about a village when children are prepared for dream time. If they are lucky, it is said, they are free to travel the crack in the universe, the time just before night becomes day, and bring back gifts that can be shared for the good of all. In dreamtime it is said we meet our spirit helpers,” Aki Ikwe began as she looked at each child. “If everyone is comfortable, I will begin.” she said. The children nodded their heads in agreement.

“It was dark in the sweat lodge. The steam from grandfather rocks was hotter than usual. Perhaps it had something to do with the hot summer afternoon. Sitting crossed legged on the ground, sweat pouring from his body in buckets, Little Crow let his thoughts wander as he shook his rattle in time with the drum. He would rather be swimming with his friends in the cool stream instead of listening to Thunder Clouds’ booming voice chanting in the sweltering heat.

As more water was poured on the grandfathers hot steam filled the sweat lodge. Little Crow leaned forward and put his face to Mother Earth to escape the steam.
The musty smell of the ground blended with the sharp scent of the cedar that was placed on the hot rocks and sent sparks into the darkness.

(Pick up Feather) Thunder Cloud waited a moment for the steam to build before calling out “All my relations”. At that moment, White Wolf, the fire keeper who standing outside the sweat lodge, opened the flap and everyone inside let out a sigh of relief. The fourth round was over.

Little Crows squinted his eyes as he adjusted to the light he looked at his friends. To his right Bear Cub sat half crumpled, leaning over to one side, drenched in sweat. His fat tummy moved up and down. To his left, Flying Squirrel lay on his belly with his hair plastered across his forehead and his face poking out of the flap.

(Hold Feather) “There are many gateways to other worlds”, Thunder Cloud spoke as he raised his eagle feather. Tomorrow you will be placed in a vision pit where you will learn to travel through the crack in the universe. If you are fortunate, you will meet your dream helpers. If not, you may have to go through a few times. The more challenging the vision quest, the stronger and more powerful the dream you will bring back.“

Flying Squirrel pushed himself up on his elbows with his chin resting on the open palm of his right hand and asked Thunder Cloud, “How will we recognize who our dream helper is?”

Thunder Cloud explained. “Walking the path of silence helps you to grow and come to understand your thoughts. You will be able to tell what is real and what is not yours. Your helper will speak to you and you will know. It is time for you to learn to work with your thoughts so that you can develop your gifts and abilities.” (Thunder Cloud was the tribes oldest teacher who taught the importance of using the mind.)

“We will sing one more song before you make your way to the main lodge for a feast,” Thunder Cloud pointed to the drum and the rattles and they sang.

When the song was finished, the friends walked down the path towards the main lodge. Little Crow wandered across an open field enjoying the cool evening air. Grandmothers’ full moon made walking easy. High overhead the stars shown brightly and a faint breeze caused the tall grass to sway this way and that.

Suddenly, the constellations seemed to drop from the sky and hang just over his head. Beyond them the night sky held so many twinkling lights as far as his eyes could see, Little Crow could not even begin to count. He stood in amazement.

As he looked towards the east, a hazy form floated towards him. Little Crow could not make out any features and yet was unafraid. With an open heart and mind, he held out his hands in welcome as he thought “I have come to meet myself“. At that moment the hazy figure became a tiny light and darted to the North.

Little Crow quickly made his way to the main lodge where his friends where already eating. He approached Thunder Cloud and passed tobacco to the Elder then told him what had just happened. (Pick up feather) Thunder Cloud told him that this was a very powerful vision then got up and walked out leaving Little Crow to join his friends and sit in wonder.

“Perhaps tomorrow will bring the answer”, Little Crow thought. He said goodnight and made his way home. In the distance, lightening flashed as a thunderstorm (Point to Drum) rumbled over the mountain tops.

Early the next morning Bear Cub, Flying Squirrel and Little Crow met outside of Thunder Clouds’ lodge. They could hear Thunder Cloud voice chanting (Point to Drum) as he pounded leaves into a sticky paste that would be smeared on their body and drank in a tea to make their dreams more vivid.

The friends gathered wood for the sacred fire. Bear Cub confided, (Excited Voice) “I couldn’t get to sleep, I stayed up all night just thinking about today.”

Flying Squirrel agreed as he light the fire. (Fearful Voice) “Me too. I heard stories of others who have slept in the vision pit and heard all kinds of animals and sounds. Some have never been the same.”

Little Crow swallowed. He tried to focus on piling the wood for the sacred fire that would be burning during their vision quest.

At that moment, Thunder Cloud appeared with his helper, Young Wolf ,carrying a bowl of the sticky paste and some leaves.

(Hold Feather) “Good, I see you have the fire going. Come and sit. Drink this tea.“ the old one instructed.

As they drank the tea and Young Wolf smeared the paste over the boys chest, back and legs. “Because you are still young the vision quest will last two days. When you are older, it will be four days,” Thundercloud prepared them. “You may experience your spirit take flight and see many things. Remember that what you experience is neither good nor bad. You must sit very still and not make a sound. The important thing is not to allow your imagination to turn into fear and that you remain silent.” He stood up and motioned for them to follow.

Three large pits had been dug about 5 feet from each other on the south side of the hill. As each boy climbed down Thunder Cloud gave them words of encouragement as Young Wolf covered the pit with branches.

“We will return in two days,” Thunder Cloud said and with that he and Young Wolf moved a safe distance away to watch over the boys and keep the sacred fire burning.

In the first pit, Bear Cub, tired from being up half the night pushed the earth this way and that to make himself comfortable and went to sleep.

In the second pit, Flying Squirrel began fidgeting and couldn’t get comfortable. As his mind wandered so did his imagination. “What if a dangerous animal eats me in the middle of the night . What if it rains and I drown in my sleep. What if I get hungry. “ On and on his thoughts raced. He broke out in a sweat as his mind continued to wander. What if… what if…what if….

In the third pit, Little Crow sat down, took in a deep breath, and leaned back. He listened to the sounds of the day and could hear the leaves of a tree moving in the wind. Overhead birds called to each other. (Tweet Tweet). The tea made him sleepy. As he closed his eyes he saw a bird that looked like a Crane about to fly. The crane looked back at him as if to say “Follow me”. In an instant Little Crow was in the sky as the two of them flew over a mountain and down into a valley. Little Crow could see someone far below gathering roots and heard the plants call out to him. “Little Crow. Little Crow. Over here, over here”.

This seemed to go on for a long time. Finding it hard to believe, Little Crow rubbed his eyes and found himself sitting in the dark. He peered through the branches that covered the pit and realized the day had turned into night. Before drifting off to sleep again he wondered how his friends were. The only sounds he could hear were the crickets and then nothing.

Meanwhile, Bear Cub had hardly stirred and was still fast asleep as if he were hibernating.

Flying Squirrel, however, was in a state of panic. His body was clamy and the palms of his hands were wet . His ears were ringing and he could not sit still another second. After a day of “what if”, and sitting up all night listening to every sound. He could no longer remain in the pit and scrambled up the side and out, running as fast as he could towards home.

The second day Bear Cub woke to a growling belly. He sat up and sniffed a cool morning breeze. Frogs crooked (Rebit Rebit) in the distance. He looked around and noticed Spider watching him. “Hum, “ Bear Cub said as he scratched his back against a rock, “I think the rains will be coming . Even Spider is looking for shelter.”

Then he closed his eyes again and saw himself leading a hunting party tracking a deer. His hunger pains led him to visualize a pot of simmering stew slowly cooking over an open fire and everyone having enough to eat. Satisfied with this thought, Bear Cub laid down and went back to sleep.

In the next pit Little Crow opened his eyes. The sun’s rays poked through the branches and danced across his eye lids. Stretching in his cramped area he remembered the images of the day before and how real it all seemed. Beyond the pit he heard rattles and drumming and watched as the light beams changed color in time with the beat. The drumming continued into the late afternoon.

Brown Ant crawled down his sleeve and ran down his leg then disappeared into the earth. Suddenly he found himself in Spirit flight again, this time following Brown Ant and moving through Mother Earth as if through air. As he passed through layers of stone with different colors, the rocks greeted him by name and invited him to return.

(Pick up Feather) “Little Crow. Little Crow. “ In the distance he heard Thunder Clouds voice pulling him back. When he opened his eyes, Young Wolf was removing the branches and reaching into the pit. “Here, take my hand. You must be hungry by now. Come and sit by the fire with Bear Cub before he eats everything, ” Young Wolf laughed.

When Little Crow joined Bear Cub and helped himself to the food, he looked around, “Where is Flying Squirrel?”

(Pick up Feather) Thunder Cloud explained, “Flying Squirrel will have to go through another. Everyone reacts differently. Flying Squirrel was unable to control his thoughts and as a result fear took over. Bear Cub used his dream time to rest and to locate food for the people. He will be a good hunter.”

Young Wolf, looked at Little Crow and asked, “ What did you dream?”

Little Crow told them of flying with the Crane, hearing the plants call out to him and traveling through the earth where the rocks greeted him by name. Thunder Clouds smiled and nodded to Young Wolf.

It was a sign for Young Wolf to speak. “Dreams lead us in many directions. Your dreams have shown you the plant and earth medicines. It will be up to you to act upon your dreams. Thunder Cloud has prepared me to take his place in awaking the dreamers. Now I must look for a helper.”

Little Crow glanced at Bear Cub and Thunder Cloud who were wearing big smiles. He looked back at Young Wolf who had one eye brow raised and appeared to be waiting for an answer.

“Do …you…. Mean….. me?” Little Crow spoke very low and slowly.

Young Wolf nodded in agreement. “If you are willing to accept this offer to train as my helper, we will begin the next full moon.”

Little Crow thought for a moment, “I am willing to try.”

(Pick up Feather) Thunder Cloud stepped forward and handed Little Crow a carving of a turtle. “Take this to remind you to walk slowly and take your time.”

Little Crow thanked him.

Thunder Cloud turned to Bear Cub and handed him the rest of the food. “Take this food Bear Cub and share it with your family.” Bear Cub was happy because his vision came true. (He picked up the rattle and danced in a circle.)

Thunder Cloud instructed them to, “Return to your family and share your experiences. Speak nothing of Flying Squirrel. You can only tell your own stories.” Then he picked up the drum, hit it once, and stepped into his lodge.

Bear Cub and Little Crow made their way back to the village. As they walked they shared stories of great things they would like to accomplish….”.

“That is all.“, Aki Ikwe said as the children sat up and stretched. Aki Ikwe passed a tray of dried fruit to the child on her left and made a hand motion to take some and pass it on.
“Grandmother, can you tell us another story?” one of the smaller grandchildren asked. The rest of the children joined in, “Please tell us another one.”
Aki Ikwe let two of the smaller children play with her long gray braids. “Yes, I think I can tell you another story. If you are ready, I will begin.”

Story Origin
The hottest day of the summer my daughter Nikki and I traveled to John Redsky’s sweat lodge in Shoal Lake No. 40, Ontario. I was impressed with her determination after the second round as she rested on her hands and knees with her face sticking out of the flap. The fire keeper saw how she was struggling and gently let her know “if it is too hard you can try again another time“. Nikki looked up at him and said,
“I’ve made it this far, I’ll make it all the way,” At that point I knew she has the determination and ability to make her dreams come true.

Beach Glass

Written on July 5, 2010 at 12:53 pm, by Leo Sawicki

Beach Glass
Living at the beach has always provided that “Go-To” place. the one where all is right in the Universe, where one’ thoughts harmonize with the ebb and flow of the waves. Where birds sing for the joy of the moment and where pelicans glide effortlessly across the water as the tips of their wings could touch a wave at any moment.
The Beaches along Lake Winnipeg’s west shore are the best first thing in the morning, particularly after an evening storm. That’s when the beach glass lays in waiting.
I started collecting tumbled beach glass years ago. Different shades of green, mainly from 7 up bottles, cobalt Blue glass, probably from noxema jars and bromo seltzer bottles and In-between colors of sky blue and clear glass were like finding great treasures.
Because it was so exquisite I would buy crystal and cut glass containers then fill them and give them to friends. Recently I have found another purpose for the beach glass to guide me during daily walking meditations on the beach.
Each time I pick up a piece of glass I say a prayer of gratitude. The prayers are simple thoughts like, “Thank you for this breath. Thank you for this moment on the beach. Thank you for good health. Thank you for a lovely daughter. Thank you for the next adventure. Thank you for the next contract. Thank you for the next part of this journey. Thank you for all good things to come.” You get the idea.
Then I started the attitude of gratitude as an extension towards others in my life, for example. “Thank you for Sherril and the work she does in the world. Thank you for her husband Don who built her a beautiful studio.”
Sometimes I have to remind myself to say only one thank you for each piece of glass as I hold back the desire to rush ahead. Baby Steps.
The attitude of gratitude fills each morning, rain or shine and helps to anchor the thought form that heaven is on earth.
The “thank Yous” add up quickly in the form of beach glass as the tall vases and ornate bowls become full and are placed outside on the deck to sparkle in the sun.. The beauty of the tumbled beach glass reminds me of the countless blessings this earth walk brings.

In a Good Way

Written on February 15, 2010 at 3:55 pm, by Leo Sawicki

Last night I shared the process on the Teachings of Opposites with a friend. She was going through a change of life and relationship. To make this transition smooth I encouraged her to only speak truth in the kindest way and only to come though loving gratitude.

I instructed her to take a piece of paper and to make two columns. The first column is titled ‘Poison and Pooh’. This is where she identified all the reasons she desired change.

The other column, titled ‘What I have learned’, is the column that represents growth as a result of the situation.

I gave her an example of something that happened to me. I had agreed to travel south and collaborate on developing new program materials. I started to research and write the approach to two manuals, sold the cabin, put personal effects in storage and drove to Arizona. After four days of refining approach to content, layout and writing, the person I had agreed to develop new materials with informed me that she thought we were going to write her biography. Yipes! I asked Divine consciousness what I had learned. The answer was, ‘Be Crystal Clear’.

A series of additional events as the two manuals were developed went on the ‘Poison and Pooh’ Column. The ‘What I Have Learned’ column grew. It included items such as: only speak Truth, conduct all activities with unquestionable integrity, remain ego free, walk with humility, openly share my knowledge with the world for the good of all, come from a place of total surrender through the divine and to raise the levels of intention of those whom I come in contact with. These are the things I learned as I moved away from the situation. In the end, I met with the person, gave a gift, shared all the things I had learned and why I chose to move away from the association in a kind way. With that, I wished all the best and left the rest to Karma. By doing so I was free to move onto the next adventure and never looked back.

A light went on in my friends eyes. She made a commitment to go home and make her list and promised to mail it to me.

Generally, whenever there is a down side, or something negative happens in a persons life, there is a learning attached and personal growth occurs. Take time to write down things that are not right in your life, and what you are learning as a result. This simple action helps to build immunity to undesired situations in the future. The quicker you are to speak your truth with kindness the faster you are able to move through in a good way. A simple exercise such as this can be insightful and helpful when moving towards resolving issues or making change. 

 

Your Blessings Jar

Written on February 12, 2010 at 5:06 pm, by Leo Sawicki

One day I came across a blue jar with a cork top in a store.  It was labeled Blessings.  I took it home and put it on a shelf in my office with small pieces of paper and a pen beside it.  Every time I went past it, I would take a moment to write one word and slip it into the jar.  At the end of the week I would empty the jar and make a list of what I was grateful for.  The list contained words like: shelter, family, friends, colleagues, consciousness, breath, choices, contracts, working with the medicine wheel, space, community, self-care, a car that runs, Muriel as a sister, loving what I do, and on and on.  This one simple action, such as writing a word on paper once a day, made emptying the Blessings Jar on Saturday mornings something to look forward to.

Create your own Blessings Jar.  Once a day for the next month drop in one word that says what you are grateful for.  Share this with your family or partner.  Then let me know what changes occur in a good way as a result.

Create Lists

Written on January 21, 2010 at 12:44 pm, by Leo Sawicki

Establishing a balance between spirit, emotion, intellect, physical well being, relations and personal goals requires a high degree of focus and application.  It is helpful to begin your day with a Simple To-Do List.  One that identifies each area and tasks  to work on within each one.  Working in one area  often has a domino effect on other areas.  For example, when you achieve a goal, your spirit is elevated and your emotions are happy.  Achieving that goal makes it easier to try a larger goal and learn something new. You have the energy and physical ability to accomplish it. A nice balance occurs.

Visual reminders are useful tools to help focus and keep you working towards your goals. Mind-maps helps capture a large amount of information on one page.   Work plans provide direction and application till completion.

Begin to create balance in your life by idenifying  areas you can lighten up on.  What areas are you out of step with? What things can you do to gain a comfortable rythum with the seasons and in what ways can you pay greater attention to detail.  

Look at eithical traits and behaviors you admire in others then gently adopt these ways.