HomeIssue 25
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In This Issue:
2) Correct Term For Indigenous People by Terri Jean
3) The Medicine Wheel by Sibyl McLendon
4) The Devil Card by Eagle Dancing
5) The Power Of Music
6) Stand For Something by Rhoberta Shaler
7)What Has Passed Is Gone by Robert Taylor
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You have noticed that everything as Indian does is in a circle, and that is because
the Power of the World always works in circles, and everything tries to be round.....
The Sky is round, and I have heard that the earth is round like a ball, and so are
all the stars. The wind, in its greatest power, whirls. Birds make their nest in
circles, for theirs is the same religion as ours....
Even the seasons form a great circle in their changing, and always come back again
to where they were. The life of a man is a circle from childhood to childhood, and so
it is in everything where power moves.
Black Elk~~
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The Medicine Wheel
By Sibyl McLendon
In order to adequately explain the principle of a medicine wheel to you, I will first need to provide some basic information concerning American Indian beliefs. The first, and most fundamental belief is that everything in the universe is circular. There are no sharp corners in nature! In honoring this, we do most everything in a circular manner. Our homes are circular, and we sit in a circle so that no one person is set above another. We dance in a circle. When we are doing ceremonies, we walk in a sun-wise circle. Sun-wise is clockwise. The word "medicine" in our culture has nothing to do with the concept of modern medicine or drugs. It is a concept of good energy, of walking in balance and harmony. Medicine people are the ones who return us to harmony when we have strayed.
Understanding this, then you will understand that the Medicine Wheel is a way of creating sacred space in which we will do ceremonies, do a vision quest or simply meditate in order to speak to the Above Beings. This sacred space can be created virtually anywhere that there is room, and where it will be undisturbed. The space is made sacred by our intention that it be sacred, and the way in which we approach the building and maintaining of it. The Medicine Wheel can create a very powerful space. If used properly, anyone can make the connections that they are seeking.
To start, one needs to find the proper area. This is done by simply being in the right frame of mind: open and reverent. The right place will present itself. It might be in your own back yard, or out in an open space that you know will go undisturbed by the curious.
Once you have found it, you should clear the area. Rake the ground to clear any debris. Your Medicine Wheel can be any size, from an area just big enough for you to sit in, to a large circle for ceremony. This is up to you, and what you intend to use it for.
Next, one must find at least 4 large rocks. You can use 8, or more, but an even number is best. Four rocks must be larger than the rest. These four rocks are placed one in each of the cardinal directions, north, south, east and west. Come as close as you can to the exact direction. If you want, rocks may be placed in between these four directions, but always put an equal number between the original four. At the stone that signifies the east, you will want to create an entrance, using two stones. Medicine Wheels are always entered through the east!
Now that you have the basic wheel, you will need to smudge the center of the circle. I will go into greater detail about smudging in a future article, but for now, just try to get a sage bundle or some sweetgrass to use. These can be found on the Internet by putting "smudge sticks" into a search engine. If all else fails, you can use incense, if your intention is that it will purify the area. Enter your wheel with your smudge burning, and walk in a clockwise direction, moving the smoke around. Make smaller and smaller circles until you are at the center. Know that your space has been cleared of any outside influences, and negative energy. After this, you can make a small altar at the center of your wheel if you desire. What you put there is up to you. Traditional Medicine Wheels have a buffalo skull filled with sage in the center.
Now you have your Medicine Wheel. If you treat it with the proper respect, and your intentions are good, you will find that miraculous things can happen when you are in it! It is a place for prayer and meditation. It is an excellent place to pray for healing for yourself, others, or the world. Try drumming, and/or chanting in it. Leave crystals or stones in it for a day or two. It is a sacred space, and the Above Beings will meet you there. If you are finished with the Wheel for good, be sure to take it apart and remove all evidence of it having been there.
More on Medicine Wheels next week.
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From Wakan-Tanka, the Great Mystery, comes all power. It is from Wakan-Tanka that
the holy man has wisdom and the power to heal and make holy charms. Man knows that all
healing plants are given by Wakan-Tanka, therefore they are holy.
~~Flat Iron
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The Devil Card
by Eagle Dancing
The devil card depicts a horned devil, half man and half goat, sitting on a black throne. Before him is a nude man and woman, chained together at the neck. The devil card is linked to the astrological sign of Capricorn.
When the devil card appears in your spread, it does not neccesarily mean that evil forces are around you. This card basically represents the material world which is not evil or good. You may be entering a phase where the material is important to you. Maybe you feel as if you never have enough money, or you are becoming too interested in the collection of objects.
Emotionally, the devil warns against trying to buy friendship or love. Do not use money to wield power over others! Do not get trapped in a relationship just for what you can get out of it.
Reversed
If this card comes up in the reading reversed, beware! It warns of a person who is seriously abusing power, sex or money. There is the chance that the devil card is symbolizing an evil-hearted person. If this card comes up representing a person you are in a relationship with, get out; or if you are thinking of getting into a relationship with, don't! They may very well be not what they appear to be. This can also mean a person who is lustful, and engages in inappropriate sex, such as a child molester. This person may hold you in an obssesive relationship that you just can't seem to break free of.
Eagle Dancing is Bobby McLendon
http://www.eagledancing.com
To get a reading with him, go to http://www.keen.com/eagledancing
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The Power Of Music
THE RAINBOW CONNECTION
By the Muppets Written by Paul Williams and Kenny Ascher
Why are there so many songs about rainbows?
And what's on the other side?
Rainbows are visions, but only illusions,
And rainbows have nothing to hide.
So we've been told and some choose to believe it
I know they're wrong, wait and see.
Someday we'll find it, the rainbow connection,
The lovers, the dreamers and me.
Who said that every wish would be heard and answered
When wished on the morning star?
Somebody thought of that, and someone believed it,
And look what it's done so far.
What's so amazing that keeps us stargazing
And what do we think we might see?
Someday we'll find it, the rainbow connection,
The lovers, the dreamers, and me.
All of us under its spell,
We know that it's probably magic...
Have you been half asleep? And have you heard voices?
I've heard them calling my name.
Is this the sweet sound that calls the young sailors?
The voice might be one and the same.
I've heard it too many times to ignore it
It's something that I'm supposed to be...
Someday we'll find it, the rainbow connection,
The lovers, the dreamers, and me.
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The Native Truth
Dear Readers:
I've received an overwhelming response from subscribers recently- mostly questions relating to the same issues - and I wanted to takea moment and respond to your letters collectively. Here goes:
# 1: What is the correct terminology for an indigenous person of theUS?
#2: American Indian Movie Recommendations
# 3: Native Truth update and news:
#4: Internet sites of interest
#5: Update: Civil Rights Commission & The Mascot Issue
#6: Wanted: Stereotypical Pieces for Exhibit
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What is the correct terminology for an indigenous person of the US?
Since Christopher Columbus first encountered the Arawaks of the Bahamas, the
term "Indios", and then "Indian" has been used to describe
the people he once thought were of India. In the 1960's the
politically correct term became "Native American", though many tribes
and individuals still used the term Indian. Eventually organizations such as the
American Indian Movement and the National Congress of
American Indians preferred to use - and advocated - the term "American
Indian."
I know many people who use one of those self-references and they'll each give me a reason why they do not approve of the other. Some say "Indian" is offensive while others say that "American Indian" is equally odious. And I've heard many non-Indigenous people argue with me that any person born within the American continents is "Native American" and it therefore should not apply to just once group of people.
Personally, I like Canada's `First Peoples' identification since it should be
acknowledged and accepted that the
aboriginal people of the American continent were here for thousands of years
prior to the Europeans.
Many tribes have done away with collective labels and identify themselves by heritage, using specific tribal names such as Cherokee, Sioux, Lakota or Huron. I've seen this more and more within Native communities and believe it to be a wonderful way to show one's heritage and cultural relation.
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AMERICAN INDIAN MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS
Many readers were interested in specific American Indian movie titles and asked for my recommendation. Some include purchase information while others may be at your local video rental store. Here's a few that you may find interesting:
1. `Smoke Signals', directed by Chris Eyre and written by Sherman Alexie (author of "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven") Starring Gary Farmer, Tantoo Cardinale and Adam Beach.
2. "City of Dreams" by Jorge Manzano is a dramatic movie telling a story about a young Native man and his mother who move to Toronto with the hopes of a better life - which is eventually shattered when they both realize the city is not the place they thought it would be. This movie is touching - but also spiritual and eventually, fills you with a sense of hope.
3. "Broken Rainbow", Academy Award Winner Best Documentary Feature
1985, documents the present removal of 12,000 Navajo Indians from Northern
Arizona by the United States. This movie is sad and
touching - and beautifully done. For information contact: Earthworks, Inc. P.O.
Box 153 Kelly, Wyoming 83011
4. "Today Is a Good Day: Remembering Chief Dan George" directed by Loretta Todd - tells the story of the legendary Chief Dan George and the film is extremely well written and portrayed.
5. "Teaching Indians to Be White" is one of the best educational films I have ever seen. Available from: Films for the Humanities and Sciences PO Box 2053 Princeton, NJ 08543 (800)257-5126. This short film explores children taken from their parents and placed into `white' boarding schools, so the Indian can be taught out of them.This is part of a series of six films, though this is the only film I've personally watched.
6. "In Whose Honor?" - by Jay Rosenstein, aired last year on PBS and pertains to the using of "Indians" for logos and mascots. If it airs again in your area, I would highly recommend watching it.
Here's a few links where you can find films made by American Indians, and how they can be purchased:
http://www.richheape.com/
http://www.kifaru.com/index2.html
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Several people asked me what music I listened to and it's the album
"Robbie Robertson and the Red Road Ensemble". I have bought about 23
copies of this album as gifts for family, friends and work associates and I have
copies in both my van and in my house. I purchased the CD at a record store but
friends have told me
they've seen it in the Columbia House catalog. Though I have many other
recordings, this is my favorite because it mixes modern music with traditional
Native.. and Robbie Robertson, for those of you who are
unfamiliar with his work, formally played with The Band.
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Native Truth update and news:
We have just purchased the domain name www.thenativetruth.net and, hopefully,
will launch our website sometime this summer. We'll announce it on the list as
soon as we're ready to go `live.' Our goal will be to bring you accurate
historical information that you can rely on - especially those of you using our
material as
academic resources for your children. We will also introduce you to various
Native authors, activists, musicians and artists and keep you informed and
up-to-date on issues and events that pertain to the
American Indian people. If there is something specific you would like to have
posted on the site, please send in your suggestions and thoughts.
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Internet sites of interest
Many of you wrote in asking for URL's of sites that I would recommend. I have many, but here are a few I've been to recently and I found them quite interesting:
http://www.dickshovel.com/
http://www.doi.gov/bia/as-ia/
http://www.fallenmartyrs.com
Tribute To Fallen Martyrs (including Native people)
cherokee-indians-of-ga-inc.0pi.com
Cherokee Cultural Page
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part4/4h3083.html
Cherokee letter protesting the Treaty of New Etocha
http://geography.about.com/library/maps/blindian.htm
-maps
http://www.zapme.com/net/class/gov/gov_tribal.html
lots of documents
http://www.hcs.ohio-state.edu/hcs/TMI/HCS210/HortOrigins/AgeofDiscover
y.html
The Age of Discovery
http://members.aol.com/tawodi/indians.htm
http://www.nvo.com/ecnewletter/nationalamericanindianheritagemonth/
http://www.bluecloud.org/quote.html
http://www.eatthestate.org/01-46/ReclaimHistory.htm
http://www.repatriationfoundation.org/aaia.html
http://www.nativeweb.org/pages/legal/sovereignty.html
http://www.nativenet.uthscsa.edu/archive/nn-dialogue/archive.html
http://nativeamculture.about.com/culture/nativeamculture/library/weekl
y/aa012800.htm
http://hometown.aol.com/bbbenge/front.html
http://www.cmp.ucr.edu/site/exhibitions/indian/
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/abstract/aic.htm
If you have a favorite website and would like to share it with other subscribers, send it to me and I'll post it to the list.
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Update: Civil Rights Commission & The Mascot Issue
The `Mascot' Native Truth article was the most talked about article of all the issues as of yet. I received hundreds of letters of support and encouragement for the cause of eliminating the use of Native American names, mascots and logos from sports teams. On April 13, 2001 the United States Commission on Civil Rights released a statement echoing the same position as many other Native activists - myself included:
"The US Commission on Civil Rights calls for an end to the use of Native
American images and team names by non-Native schools. The Commission deeply
respects the right of all Americans to freedom of
expression under the First Amendment and in no way would attempt to prescribe
how people can express themselves. However, the Commission believes that the use
of Native American images and nicknames in
schools is insensitive and should be avoided. In addition, some Native American
and civil rights advocates maintain that these mascots may violate
anti-discrimination laws.
These references, whether mascots and their performances, logos, or names,
are disrespectful and offensive to American Indians and others who are offended
by such stereotyping. They are particularly inappropriate and insensitive in
light of the long history of forced assimilation that American Indian people
have endured in this country. Since the civil rights movement of the 1960s
many overtly derogatory symbols and images offensive to African-Americans have
been eliminated. However, many secondary schools, post-secondary
institutions, and a number of professional sports teams continue to use Native
American nicknames and imagery. Since the 1970s, American Indians leaders and
organizations have vigorously voiced their opposition to these mascots and team
names because they mock and trivialize Native American religion and culture. It
is
particularly disturbing that Native American references are still to be found in
educational institutions, whether elementary, secondary or post-secondary.
Schools are places where diverse groups of people come together to learn not
only the "Three Rs," but also how to interact respectfully with people
from different cultures. The use of stereotypical images of Native Americans by
educational institutions has the potential to create a racially hostile
educational environment that may be intimidating to Indian students. American
Indians have the lowest high school graduation rates in the nation and even
lower college attendance and graduation rates. The
perpetuation of harmful stereotypes may exacerbate these problems.
The stereotyping of any racial, ethnic, religious or other groups when
promoted by our public educational institutions, teach all students that
stereotyping of minority groups is acceptable, a dangerous lesson in a diverse
society. Schools have a responsibility to educate their students; they should
not use their influence to
perpetuate misrepresentations of any culture or people. Children at the
elementary and secondary levels usually have no choice about which school they
attend. Further, the assumption that a college student may freely choose another
educational institution if she feels uncomfortable around Indian-based imagery
is a false one. Many factors, from educational programs to financial aid to
proximity to home, limit a college student's choices. It is particularly onerous
if the student must also consider whether or not the institution is
maintaining a racially hostile environment for Indian students. Schools
that continue the use of Indian imagery and references claim that their use
stimulates interest in Native American culture and honors Native Americans.
These institutions have simply failed to listen to the Native groups, religious
leaders, and civil rights
organizations that oppose these symbols.
These Indian-based symbols and team names are not accurate representations of Native Americans. Even those that purport to be positive are romantic stereotypes that give a distorted view of the past. These false portrayals prevent non-Native Americans from understanding the true historical and cultural experiences of American Indians. Sadly, they also encourage biases and prejudices that have a negative effect on contemporary Indian people.
These references may encourage interest in mythical "Indians"
created by the dominant culture, but they block genuine understanding of
contemporary Native people as fellow Americans. The Commission assumes that when
Indian imagery was first adopted or sports mascots it was not to offend Native
Americans. However, the use of the imagery and traditions, no matter how
popular, should end when they are offensive. We applaud those who have been
leading the fight to educate the public and the institutions that have
voluntarily
discontinued the use of insulting mascots. Dialogue and education are the roads
to understanding. The use of American Indian mascots is not a trivial matter.
The Commission has a firm understanding of the problems of poverty, education,
housing, and health care that face many Native Americans. The fight to eliminate
Indian nicknames and images in sports is only one front of the larger battle to
eliminate obstacles that confront American Indians. The elimination of Native
American nicknames and images as sports mascots will benefit not only Native
Americans, but all Americans. The elimination of stereotypes will make room for
education about real Indian people, current Native American issues, and the rich
variety of American Indians in our
country."
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WANTED: STEREOTYPICAL PIECES FOR EXHIBIT
I am currently working on an art piece for an exhibit on Native Americans and stereotypes. I am in need of as much pieces as possible. Recently I have found (or given) items such as:
* A Washington Redskins mug
* A Cherikee Red Cola bottle
* A dreamcatcher car air freshener
* A romance novel about "savage love" with an "Indian
Savage" male drawing on the cover
* A toy called "Indian balls"
* An ad for tobacco with an Indian logo
* A cheap bow & arrow playset with an inappropriate drawing of an
"Indian warrior" on the package.
* The "Indian in the Cupboard" movie cover
* An old Tonto horse and figure set (from the Lone Ranger television
show)
* A child's book with stereotypical information
* A brochure from Squaw Mountain
If you have anything that you feel may be appropriate for the collection, let me know and I will give you the address of The Native Truth. This exhibit will be used for educational purposes during speaking engagements and workshops at various schools, colleges and community events. Your help is greatly appreciated.
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I'm sorry for not answering all your questions personally. I am a one-woman
operation and last month I received well over 320 emails. I appreciate your
words of encouragement and support - and I will try
to respond to as many letters as I possibly can.
The next issue is called "The Only Good Indian is a Dead Indian." I'll get that out to you as soon as I can.
Until then..
Osda,
Terri Jean
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STAND FOR SOMETHING
by Rhoberta Shaler
Happiness! Most people say they want it. Many people chase it unsuccessfully for a lifetime.
Some few find lasting happiness.
Society leads you to believe that happiness will arrive with the acquisition of a new car, new
house, new job, or new mate. The public relations industry is built on your believing that a
product will be the final touch to making your life more complete, making you more popular, more
content. It promises to make you happier.
All this leads to the illusion that something outside yourself will bring you the experience of
happiness you most want. Perhaps Dag Hammarskjold was right when he said that folks are great at
exploring outer space but very poor at exploring inner space. The tidal waves of advertising that
wash over you in a day may have mislead you. You may not have been able to cash in on the
promotional promises of happiness in any lasting
way.
As children you received messages from the influential adults in your life through their
behavior. You often learned by example, not by words. You may have observed your parents
worrying, so you may have learned to worry. Perhaps they argued about money, so you may have
concluded that money is essential to happiness. You may have heard them say, "You (or it) make me
so sad (glad, happy, mad)" and you may have decided then that others have the power to create
your feelings for you.
If you stop to pay attention to these messages from your childhood--truly reflect on them--you
might give yourself the opportunity to make room for other attitudes and behaviors which are more
life-and-love-affirming to yourself and for others around you. These new possibilities can
open the way for you taking even more responsibility for your own choices of
perception, thought, feelings and action. This
reflection will create the space to change your life by changing your mind.
Happiness is within your reach, however, you must learn to reach inward, not outward to find it.
John Powell has written a wonderful little book with the title, "Happiness is an Inside Job", in
which he leads readers to accept full responsibility for the integrity of their
actions--the congruency of their beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
It is my opinion that the discrepancy between what you say you believe and what you actually do
is the measure of internal conflict in your life. I often hear people say, "I know I would be
healthier, happier, thinner, etc., if I ________but I just don't seem to do it." Have you
ever said that? Here is a prime example of
knowing what to do and not doing it. All the learning in the world will not make any
difference until it is applied!
Conflict demands your energy. How many areas of your life contain little conflicts? You know, you
say you want to lose weight but you just cheat when no one is around. You promise yourself
you'll exercise--tomorrow. To be happy, as well as healthy, you need to pay attention to these
areas and resolve the conflict--do what you say you believe. My personal definition of integrity
is this: Integrity is when what you say and do matches what you say you believe and want. When
you are in integrity, you feel good!
Conflict requires management and, preferably, resolution. Reduction or removal of conflict
contributes to happiness. You, therefore, assist yourself greatly on the journey to happiness by
living a life that truly reflects your beliefs and values in every way, every day. Happiness
comes from living your own truth. You need to
make a decision to live by the principles you believe in and to take a stand for them by the
example of your life. A poster reads, "You had better stand for something or you'll fall for
anything." Why not stand strongly for what is most important to you and demonstrate that
through your words and actions. Happiness will then be a welcome by-product!
****************************** (C) Rhoberta
Shaler, PhD. All rights reserved worldwide.
Author of several books, programs & audio tapes, Seattle-based Rhoberta Shaler, PhD, speaks,
consults and trains for corporations, conferences, and conventions on 'People Skills
for a Competitive Edge' through her company, SPEAKING ABOUT WORK. She leads teams to improve
and strengthen workplace relationships and recover time lost through conflict.
http://www.RhobertaShaler.com
http://www.SpeakingAboutWork.com Contact Telephone: (425) 401-6464
Email: mailto:RS@RhobertaShaler.com
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What Has Passed, Is Gone!
by Robert Taylor
How many of us are guilty of living in the past? Some spend their whole lives trying to live in the past and others only
brief moments. Our lives are right now, right this moment.
We should look to the past only to learn from the mistakes we have made and the lessons we have learned. We then apply
this knowledge to the present (present has also been defined as a gift).
We may also look briefly to the past in consideration of fond memories and pleasant occurrences. These brace us to
face some of the unpleasantries we often face. This should only be used as a tool to help us get past current
difficulties, and not as an anchor which keeps us eternally in the past.
We may consider life as a constantly flowing river. The waters of that river never pass the same spot twice. They
are always passing something new, and never return to that which they have already passed.
Living in the past is comparable to living in a sealed pond, where there is no influx of fresh waters. The pond becomes
stagnant and covered with scum. Our lives are the same when we insist on living in the past.
We need a constant inflow of new ideas and circumstances to stay fresh and continue our growth. Even thought some of
these new ideas and circumstances my prove painful, they are essential in our development. When we cease to grow and
change, we cease to live life to the fullest.
And...Who wants to be stagnant?
Copyright 2001 by Robert Taylor
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