Thank you, Ellie, for this and for so much else you have shared with us. Most of us--certainly myself--had no idea that today was a very special day among Native Americans in this their country that we dare to call ours. Grace and Peace, Lucille Tessier Chagnon Chincoteague, VA On Sep 23, 2012, at 4:46 PM, Ellie Stock wrote:
A reflection on Native American (American Indian/First Nation, etc) Day as recognized by the Presbyterian Church (USA)...
In the Presbyterian Church (USA)'s program calendar, today September 23 (4th Sunday of September) is designated Native American Day--maybe other faith communities do so as well or in various ways --I don't know. Below is a song in honor and remebrance of the First Nation Peoples whose legacy and presence still implore and challenge us to honor, care for and live in harmony with Creation and each other, walking lightly on Earth's sacred space.
Red Cloud was an Oglala Lakota Sioux Chief in 1800s-early 1900s who defended his people and land against the continual encroachment, plundering and broken treaties by the U.S. government, military, and economic interests. He was the only one to defeat the US military in what was called Red Cloud's War (although the US started it) 1866-68 when the US built forts on Lakota land. He was a leader before, a contemorary of Crazy Horse, Sitting Bull, Big Foot and others and outlived them, dying on the Pine Ridge Reservation in 1909. Today, Pine Ridge is the poorest community in the United States. Some statistics indicate its poverty rate and hopelessness level lower than Haiti. Similar patterns of political oppression, economic exploitation and religious legitimation (Borg) continue to be US policy toward populations in this nation as well as other nations. Such behavior, especially our attitude toward the earth, is coming back to haunt us.
Ellie Stock elliestock@aol.com
RED CLOUD APPEARED IN A DREAM
Red Cloud appeared in a dream— no warning, no words, head unbowed, spirit free, crying out, silently. “Creatures beware! What was done to my people is turning back on your league.”
Red Cloud appeared in a dream— defender, protector of life, land, and liberty. Prophesy, warrior chief, bold truth declare midst treaties broken and breached, victories and tragic defeats!
Red Cloud appeared in a dream— same vision for Earth, for its fate, flowing tears: mountains gone, rising seas— critters take care— dying rivers, chopped down trees, lands grabbed by power’s rampant greed.
Red Cloud appeared in a dream— eyes open and wise— lasering poverty, violence and disease, heartbreak’s despair, shattered lives and families. Is this how Life is to be?
Red Cloud disappeared from a dream— his wisdom still heard, his presence lingering, call for justice and peace— no time to spare— seventh generation to reach to build Earth’s new community.
ejhs
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