As a human,I do not undewrstand why this thing of "columbus" day is still an issue in this country. As a mother and grandmother,as the daughter of a family that has served in every war this country has ever fought. As a wife whose husband spent three long years in Vietnam,as a sister to brothers who served in Desert storm,Vietnam,an auntie whose nephews have served in Iraq,a cousin whose family served this country.
As a Tsalagi I know well the hurt my Peoples have suffered in this THEIR homelands,and I know as well the "history" booksa used to teach the children of this country is filled with lies,written to make the ORIGINAL Peoples to be the "bad" guys. When in truth they WERE the original homelands Defenders,doing exactly what those who serve today "claim" to be doing. All you hear is how the "poor" pioneers had such a hard time against the "savage" "indians".
This person "columbus" is nothing to dso with our country in ANY way,he never set foot on mainland "America". He was in fact LOST,thought himself in India,and we get stuck being called "indian" when in fact not ONE of my ancestors came from India,Tsitsalagi,yesterday,today,and forever!
http://www.pilgrimhall.org/daymourn.htm
http://www.geoffmetcalf.com/firsttday_19991126.html
http://www.bupipedream.com/112103/release/r2.htm
http://ishgooda.org/racial/holid6t.htm
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
We Can Return! Grandmothers footsteps timeless echo's stories told by the fire,in the long and long ago wise ones kept the people safe. Daily walking in the right way saying prayers with every breath,learning lessons from all creation trees,flowers,rocks,animals,and birds. Building homes in a sacred circle ways taught by Creator in this way was protection,with each season ceremonies giving thanks as we should. Elders teaching all the children honored by all who heard them,caring for each other all around you was your kin. Visitors brought excitement new stories told from far away,traders,healers,shown respect each hold the magic of their clans. Uncles teach my children in the way of our kind,Aunties show the young girls the mysteries of woman's ways and our kinship to the moon. Leaders take their places show their wisdom in the giving,caring for their people keeping watch over all things in the village. Hunting,planting,fishing,storing,knowing the good plants from the bad,medicines or grass mats just living with our Mother Earth. Not so hard my people to return to our own ways,open your minds and remember share the ways of your ancients! granny!
I Tried!
No more I cried my soul is weary,no more of this fruitless journey,empty heart and spirit nothing left to give the children.
Head in hand and shoulders bowed,body trembling pushed beyond the mortal limits,all the world is closing in and spinning.
Empty,no music left,no sound of singing,no drum beat to bring the healing,no flute whispering to the four winds,no connection for my spirit.
Creator,lift me to a place of resting,Mother Earth enclose me,Father Sky wash me,where are the waters for my troubles?
Dawn this day brings no joy,the prayers are locked away,somewhere deep inside there is a screaming voice, I hear it.
Drained beyond all caring,reaching out to nothing,grey fog surrounds never rising from the ground,just the sticky web of life.
Where are the dreams of a new tomorrow,why this deepening sorrow,where has gone the laughter,will there be no healing?
There are no answers to the questions,no bringing together mankind,the differences are too great,they do not realize it is too late.
As I watch the world is dying,eyes are blind and will not see,ears are closed there is no pity,minds are closed to new ideas.
The Circle nears the ending,what once was will be again, sadness wells like tear drops,they were warned but would not hear it.
Darkness forms behind us,starlight glows above,Grandmother sun grows hotter,soon many will see the waters reclaim what is their own.
A shaking comes to wake us,mountains split and weeping,claiming lives within as their due,what was taken must be returned.
Will they listen,oh,no,though they watch it unfold,truth they will never accept,until disaster bites down,they dance on.
I choke on tears uncried,prayers stuck deep down inside,I feel my heart will explode,I can not reach them I tried, oh,grandmother how I tried!
No more I cried my soul is weary,no more of this fruitless journey,empty heart and spirit nothing left to give the children.
Head in hand and shoulders bowed,body trembling pushed beyond the mortal limits,all the world is closing in and spinning.
Empty,no music left,no sound of singing,no drum beat to bring the healing,no flute whispering to the four winds,no connection for my spirit.
Creator,lift me to a place of resting,Mother Earth enclose me,Father Sky wash me,where are the waters for my troubles?
Dawn this day brings no joy,the prayers are locked away,somewhere deep inside there is a screaming voice, I hear it.
Drained beyond all caring,reaching out to nothing,grey fog surrounds never rising from the ground,just the sticky web of life.
Where are the dreams of a new tomorrow,why this deepening sorrow,where has gone the laughter,will there be no healing?
There are no answers to the questions,no bringing together mankind,the differences are too great,they do not realize it is too late.
As I watch the world is dying,eyes are blind and will not see,ears are closed there is no pity,minds are closed to new ideas.
The Circle nears the ending,what once was will be again, sadness wells like tear drops,they were warned but would not hear it.
Darkness forms behind us,starlight glows above,Grandmother sun grows hotter,soon many will see the waters reclaim what is their own.
A shaking comes to wake us,mountains split and weeping,claiming lives within as their due,what was taken must be returned.
Will they listen,oh,no,though they watch it unfold,truth they will never accept,until disaster bites down,they dance on.
I choke on tears uncried,prayers stuck deep down inside,I feel my heart will explode,I can not reach them I tried, oh,grandmother how I tried!
Hard Life,Good Life!Quiet laughter fills the air as grandmother watches the childrenplay,the only toys are those home made cornshuck dolls and woodenhorses,cows and sheep.Rocks and stickes line dirt roads made with tiny hands,twigs fortrees build a forest a hole scooped out makes a pond for water hereimagination is in use.Day after day added to with lodges and cornfields,oh,lookgrandfather has carved some deer,such happy days spent in sunshinesmall brown faces glow with health and happiness.Hunting,fishing,working in the garden life is hard andtiring,young and old pitch in if the family is to eat,but grandmothermakes sure there is still time for play.Feed the chickens carry water see to the comfort of thehorses,the animals are cared for first it is on us theydepend,eggs,milk,and transportation they give to us in return.From before sunrise we are working time out for prayers of thanksgiving,a few more chores then comes school we are always greatful forthe summer.At home we are always learning,school to us is a place oftorture,no smiles then we are always sollom trying hard to get alonghoping today the teasing and taunting will not be so bad.Oh,sweet freedom of the summer the only fighting is with mybrothers,we may play pranks but would never truely hurt each other,tothe outside world we show a united front back to back we stand fast.Gather time is the best friends and cousins come to visit,a storyfire is built here is where we find true teaching forliving,loving,and giving,the true path of our ancestors and sacredceremony prayers.Tents pitched everywhere or roll in a blanket by the fire fallasleep beneath the stars,to the river before sunrise we must be cleanto greet Creator,grandmother smiles when she sees us.Wet heads of every size,age,and color,face the East inanticipation,spirits fill us with awe for Creator!granny!
Monday, April 16, 2007
Counting Time!
Listen now the birds are telling,fires burn in the night,smoke and ashes block the air,can you tell me if any care?
We were warned the winds are raging,storms surround with distruction,wild and strange the weather changing .
Animals in places they have never been tell a tale all its own,as we watch the world grows hotter and still we dump poisons in the water.
What good are roads and buildings with no people in them,back to the land it is our sacred duty to attend it.
We were told from long ago to listen for the Elders calling,time has come as we well know to gather now for the counting.
Children scattered to the Four Winds,hid their faces and their spirits,time soon to rebuild,be ready Mother Earth will need you.
Stories told in secret,wisdom kept in pieces,passed down through the ages,all the signs are telling prophecies are welded.
Written on our very souls how many times they were told,how many grandmothers tears washed away the hurts they gave us?
It is time to be excited,smile now do not be down hearted,the hardest test is yet to come,we are the ones to inherit Turtle Island!
as told by my grandmother
Listen now the birds are telling,fires burn in the night,smoke and ashes block the air,can you tell me if any care?
We were warned the winds are raging,storms surround with distruction,wild and strange the weather changing .
Animals in places they have never been tell a tale all its own,as we watch the world grows hotter and still we dump poisons in the water.
What good are roads and buildings with no people in them,back to the land it is our sacred duty to attend it.
We were told from long ago to listen for the Elders calling,time has come as we well know to gather now for the counting.
Children scattered to the Four Winds,hid their faces and their spirits,time soon to rebuild,be ready Mother Earth will need you.
Stories told in secret,wisdom kept in pieces,passed down through the ages,all the signs are telling prophecies are welded.
Written on our very souls how many times they were told,how many grandmothers tears washed away the hurts they gave us?
It is time to be excited,smile now do not be down hearted,the hardest test is yet to come,we are the ones to inherit Turtle Island!
as told by my grandmother
Sunday, April 01, 2007
"Racial Profiling and Brutal Physical Abuse by White Philadelphia Police"
Is this the 1960's again with racial profiling and mistreatment of people of colour. This time its members of the Mississippi Choctaw American Indian - youth, elders and women.
Please send this out to everyone that you know immediately.
A Call to All Nations
On the evening of March 21, 2007, two family members and I encountered a few of Philadelphia Police Department’s finest. A seemingly routine stop evolved into my nephews being pepper sprayed while being restrained, one lying face down and the other up against a vehicle. I witnessed the entire event.
The decisions made by these officers in handling what was originally a child-abuse case did not reflect the courtesy, skill, and discretion that I expect from those entrusted to serve and protect all residents of our community, even Choctaws. It was obvious to me that racial profiling and pre-judging dominated the situation. Additionally, in a day and age when national attitudes call for cultural sensitivity in community policing, it seems the Philadelphia Police Department has failed to step beyond its dark and cloudy past.
Some may argue that the open hostility toward Black residents of Neshoba County has lessened. However, the attitudes towards the Choctaw people remain the same. We continue to hear derogatory comments such as “dirty Choctaws,” “this is not the reservation,” “your kind,” and “your people” when dealing with some (and I must admit not all) whites in Philadelphia. Disparities are present even within professionals that are put in place to protect the public, such as the police force and child welfare agencies. I have hoped and prayed that the old days of the infamous Philadelphia was being dealt with justly. It appears that younger leaders of the community are truly embracing a new day but the vestiges of the past slapped me in the face on the first day of spring 2007.
I had heard from many fellow Choctaws about the injustice and racism exhibited by City and County authorities in recent years. One episode involved a young woman who was slapped by an officer but was accused and charged with a felony assault. Her attorney later advised her that if she would just apologize to the officer, he would drop all charges. She recalled the humiliation of apologizing for a wrong committed against her, but complied to avoid jail time. Picture the scene of a young Choctaw woman groveling to placate his pride.
Silence in the face of bigotry and racism means acceptance. By not speaking out against it, you are speaking for it.
I expect nothing less than a thorough investigation by the City of Philadelphia to be conducted to examine the racial profiling practices of PPD. I believe these officers involved in my nephew’s case committed racial profiling and this is racism and bigotry cloaked behind a badge.
I will make sure that every local, state, and Native paper follows these events as they unfurl. One of the early responses received from Native nations and organizations has come from Dennis Banks, leader of the American Indian Movement (AIM). Mr. Banks stated to me, “We [AIM] have been fighting racism and discrimination for over 40 years… now we fear that racism is leering its ugly head in Philadelphia, MS…we [AIM] will watch every moment and if need will gather a national assembly.”
I refuse to be silent anymore. To all nations I make this plea, let our struggle be heard.
Sincerely,
Janis Jimmie, Mississippi Choctawjrbnsn@hotmail.com
Is this the 1960's again with racial profiling and mistreatment of people of colour. This time its members of the Mississippi Choctaw American Indian - youth, elders and women.
Please send this out to everyone that you know immediately.
A Call to All Nations
On the evening of March 21, 2007, two family members and I encountered a few of Philadelphia Police Department’s finest. A seemingly routine stop evolved into my nephews being pepper sprayed while being restrained, one lying face down and the other up against a vehicle. I witnessed the entire event.
The decisions made by these officers in handling what was originally a child-abuse case did not reflect the courtesy, skill, and discretion that I expect from those entrusted to serve and protect all residents of our community, even Choctaws. It was obvious to me that racial profiling and pre-judging dominated the situation. Additionally, in a day and age when national attitudes call for cultural sensitivity in community policing, it seems the Philadelphia Police Department has failed to step beyond its dark and cloudy past.
Some may argue that the open hostility toward Black residents of Neshoba County has lessened. However, the attitudes towards the Choctaw people remain the same. We continue to hear derogatory comments such as “dirty Choctaws,” “this is not the reservation,” “your kind,” and “your people” when dealing with some (and I must admit not all) whites in Philadelphia. Disparities are present even within professionals that are put in place to protect the public, such as the police force and child welfare agencies. I have hoped and prayed that the old days of the infamous Philadelphia was being dealt with justly. It appears that younger leaders of the community are truly embracing a new day but the vestiges of the past slapped me in the face on the first day of spring 2007.
I had heard from many fellow Choctaws about the injustice and racism exhibited by City and County authorities in recent years. One episode involved a young woman who was slapped by an officer but was accused and charged with a felony assault. Her attorney later advised her that if she would just apologize to the officer, he would drop all charges. She recalled the humiliation of apologizing for a wrong committed against her, but complied to avoid jail time. Picture the scene of a young Choctaw woman groveling to placate his pride.
Silence in the face of bigotry and racism means acceptance. By not speaking out against it, you are speaking for it.
I expect nothing less than a thorough investigation by the City of Philadelphia to be conducted to examine the racial profiling practices of PPD. I believe these officers involved in my nephew’s case committed racial profiling and this is racism and bigotry cloaked behind a badge.
I will make sure that every local, state, and Native paper follows these events as they unfurl. One of the early responses received from Native nations and organizations has come from Dennis Banks, leader of the American Indian Movement (AIM). Mr. Banks stated to me, “We [AIM] have been fighting racism and discrimination for over 40 years… now we fear that racism is leering its ugly head in Philadelphia, MS…we [AIM] will watch every moment and if need will gather a national assembly.”
I refuse to be silent anymore. To all nations I make this plea, let our struggle be heard.
Sincerely,
Janis Jimmie, Mississippi Choctawjrbnsn@hotmail.com
"Racial Profiling and Brutal Physical Abuse by White Philadelphia Police"
Is this the 1960's again with racial profiling and mistreatment of people of colour. This time its members of the Mississippi Choctaw American Indian - youth, elders and women.
Please send this out to everyone that you know immediately.
A Call to All Nations
On the evening of March 21, 2007, two family members and I encountered a few of Philadelphia Police Department’s finest. A seemingly routine stop evolved into my nephews being pepper sprayed while being restrained, one lying face down and the other up against a vehicle. I witnessed the entire event.
The decisions made by these officers in handling what was originally a child-abuse case did not reflect the courtesy, skill, and discretion that I expect from those entrusted to serve and protect all residents of our community, even Choctaws. It was obvious to me that racial profiling and pre-judging dominated the situation. Additionally, in a day and age when national attitudes call for cultural sensitivity in community policing, it seems the Philadelphia Police Department has failed to step beyond its dark and cloudy past.
Some may argue that the open hostility toward Black residents of Neshoba County has lessened. However, the attitudes towards the Choctaw people remain the same. We continue to hear derogatory comments such as “dirty Choctaws,” “this is not the reservation,” “your kind,” and “your people” when dealing with some (and I must admit not all) whites in Philadelphia. Disparities are present even within professionals that are put in place to protect the public, such as the police force and child welfare agencies. I have hoped and prayed that the old days of the infamous Philadelphia was being dealt with justly. It appears that younger leaders of the community are truly embracing a new day but the vestiges of the past slapped me in the face on the first day of spring 2007.
I had heard from many fellow Choctaws about the injustice and racism exhibited by City and County authorities in recent years. One episode involved a young woman who was slapped by an officer but was accused and charged with a felony assault. Her attorney later advised her that if she would just apologize to the officer, he would drop all charges. She recalled the humiliation of apologizing for a wrong committed against her, but complied to avoid jail time. Picture the scene of a young Choctaw woman groveling to placate his pride.
Silence in the face of bigotry and racism means acceptance. By not speaking out against it, you are speaking for it.
I expect nothing less than a thorough investigation by the City of Philadelphia to be conducted to examine the racial profiling practices of PPD. I believe these officers involved in my nephew’s case committed racial profiling and this is racism and bigotry cloaked behind a badge.
I will make sure that every local, state, and Native paper follows these events as they unfurl. One of the early responses received from Native nations and organizations has come from Dennis Banks, leader of the American Indian Movement (AIM). Mr. Banks stated to me, “We [AIM] have been fighting racism and discrimination for over 40 years… now we fear that racism is leering its ugly head in Philadelphia, MS…we [AIM] will watch every moment and if need will gather a national assembly.”
I refuse to be silent anymore. To all nations I make this plea, let our struggle be heard.
Sincerely,
Janis Jimmie, Mississippi Choctawjrbnsn@hotmail.com
Is this the 1960's again with racial profiling and mistreatment of people of colour. This time its members of the Mississippi Choctaw American Indian - youth, elders and women.
Please send this out to everyone that you know immediately.
A Call to All Nations
On the evening of March 21, 2007, two family members and I encountered a few of Philadelphia Police Department’s finest. A seemingly routine stop evolved into my nephews being pepper sprayed while being restrained, one lying face down and the other up against a vehicle. I witnessed the entire event.
The decisions made by these officers in handling what was originally a child-abuse case did not reflect the courtesy, skill, and discretion that I expect from those entrusted to serve and protect all residents of our community, even Choctaws. It was obvious to me that racial profiling and pre-judging dominated the situation. Additionally, in a day and age when national attitudes call for cultural sensitivity in community policing, it seems the Philadelphia Police Department has failed to step beyond its dark and cloudy past.
Some may argue that the open hostility toward Black residents of Neshoba County has lessened. However, the attitudes towards the Choctaw people remain the same. We continue to hear derogatory comments such as “dirty Choctaws,” “this is not the reservation,” “your kind,” and “your people” when dealing with some (and I must admit not all) whites in Philadelphia. Disparities are present even within professionals that are put in place to protect the public, such as the police force and child welfare agencies. I have hoped and prayed that the old days of the infamous Philadelphia was being dealt with justly. It appears that younger leaders of the community are truly embracing a new day but the vestiges of the past slapped me in the face on the first day of spring 2007.
I had heard from many fellow Choctaws about the injustice and racism exhibited by City and County authorities in recent years. One episode involved a young woman who was slapped by an officer but was accused and charged with a felony assault. Her attorney later advised her that if she would just apologize to the officer, he would drop all charges. She recalled the humiliation of apologizing for a wrong committed against her, but complied to avoid jail time. Picture the scene of a young Choctaw woman groveling to placate his pride.
Silence in the face of bigotry and racism means acceptance. By not speaking out against it, you are speaking for it.
I expect nothing less than a thorough investigation by the City of Philadelphia to be conducted to examine the racial profiling practices of PPD. I believe these officers involved in my nephew’s case committed racial profiling and this is racism and bigotry cloaked behind a badge.
I will make sure that every local, state, and Native paper follows these events as they unfurl. One of the early responses received from Native nations and organizations has come from Dennis Banks, leader of the American Indian Movement (AIM). Mr. Banks stated to me, “We [AIM] have been fighting racism and discrimination for over 40 years… now we fear that racism is leering its ugly head in Philadelphia, MS…we [AIM] will watch every moment and if need will gather a national assembly.”
I refuse to be silent anymore. To all nations I make this plea, let our struggle be heard.
Sincerely,
Janis Jimmie, Mississippi Choctawjrbnsn@hotmail.com
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Mountian Secrets!
Sweet mountians of my childhood home,where once the Anasazi roamed,lying there in peaceful sleep,what precious secrets do you keep?
Trails and caves,the maidens tears,things here hidden many years,black and white was their theme,with lightning strikes as their dreams.
Turquois littered across the ground,still their footprints can be found,the wind still carries prayers whispered from their hearts,still the Kivas are around.
Mountian streams still carry silver they used to make their jewelry with,gifts given to Great Mystery,asking that their way be lit with brightness.
Can you hear their music still,carried on the mountian air through the pines that are still there,canyons,valleys,cottonwoods,deer and puma stalk the woods,bear still wades in the streams.
What could have caused these People to leave a home like this,just dissapear and never miss a place so filled with peace?
Were they sent to teach,then called away,leaving behind their mysteries,secrets hidden, so well kept only hint in what is left?
Could their lives be a message to you and me,they misused the gifts they were so freely given,wasting,or being greedy,allowing evil to enter?
Still the secrets that they hold sends shivers,excitement for the child who searches,here there are sacred places,set aside by those who left them.
How my heart lifts to feel them,ancient ones still singing,within the caves their music lingers,reaching to me across the ages.
Sweet mountians of my childhood home,where once the Anasazi roamed,lying there in peaceful sleep,what precious secrets do you keep?
Trails and caves,the maidens tears,things here hidden many years,black and white was their theme,with lightning strikes as their dreams.
Turquois littered across the ground,still their footprints can be found,the wind still carries prayers whispered from their hearts,still the Kivas are around.
Mountian streams still carry silver they used to make their jewelry with,gifts given to Great Mystery,asking that their way be lit with brightness.
Can you hear their music still,carried on the mountian air through the pines that are still there,canyons,valleys,cottonwoods,deer and puma stalk the woods,bear still wades in the streams.
What could have caused these People to leave a home like this,just dissapear and never miss a place so filled with peace?
Were they sent to teach,then called away,leaving behind their mysteries,secrets hidden, so well kept only hint in what is left?
Could their lives be a message to you and me,they misused the gifts they were so freely given,wasting,or being greedy,allowing evil to enter?
Still the secrets that they hold sends shivers,excitement for the child who searches,here there are sacred places,set aside by those who left them.
How my heart lifts to feel them,ancient ones still singing,within the caves their music lingers,reaching to me across the ages.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
New Way,New Day!
Standing,standing,heart is pounding,my mind jumps at every sounding,this way,that way all around me what is building will strike like lightning.
Petty,petty,hurt and fighting,tearing at the heart of learning,heads turn,the feeling grows,soon Mother Earth will see truth dawning.
Crying,laughing,singing,dancing,hiding now but we are finding,all the knowledge pouring out,grandparents words about the ancients.
Working,working,oh so hard,sacred places and the language are returning,stumbling blocks in the way,like silly children still at play.
Lifting,lifting the pall is clearing,darkness lightens as truth is nearing,soon,soon,the spirits cry,animal,plant,bird,and man,all are kin they will be finding.
Illness fades our minds are clearing,out of reach the evil dances,watch them,watch them,say the old ones fear herself is what controls them.
Answer,answer,to the calling,children come stop the damage,healing hearts,minds,and bodies,the world is filled again with magic.
Face her,face her,do not back down,fear is losing by leaps and bounds,war and hatred we are ending,gentle peace will be rewarded.
Stand,stand,backs together,reach out now to each other,the cleansing now is nearly ready,go to water say your prayers.
You,yes you,are well worthy,the blood of your ancestors is calling,do not turn back or lose your faith,it is truly you they are saying,it is your name the four winds carry!
granny
Standing,standing,heart is pounding,my mind jumps at every sounding,this way,that way all around me what is building will strike like lightning.
Petty,petty,hurt and fighting,tearing at the heart of learning,heads turn,the feeling grows,soon Mother Earth will see truth dawning.
Crying,laughing,singing,dancing,hiding now but we are finding,all the knowledge pouring out,grandparents words about the ancients.
Working,working,oh so hard,sacred places and the language are returning,stumbling blocks in the way,like silly children still at play.
Lifting,lifting the pall is clearing,darkness lightens as truth is nearing,soon,soon,the spirits cry,animal,plant,bird,and man,all are kin they will be finding.
Illness fades our minds are clearing,out of reach the evil dances,watch them,watch them,say the old ones fear herself is what controls them.
Answer,answer,to the calling,children come stop the damage,healing hearts,minds,and bodies,the world is filled again with magic.
Face her,face her,do not back down,fear is losing by leaps and bounds,war and hatred we are ending,gentle peace will be rewarded.
Stand,stand,backs together,reach out now to each other,the cleansing now is nearly ready,go to water say your prayers.
You,yes you,are well worthy,the blood of your ancestors is calling,do not turn back or lose your faith,it is truly you they are saying,it is your name the four winds carry!
granny
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Woman of the Tsalagi!
Woman of the Tsalagi created by Great Mysteries own plan,blood kin to her Mother Earth respecting each other in their giving birth,she need hang her head to no man,or humble herself before him, her words are the lessons we live by and remember.
It is through her the clans are counted,her bloodlines that are followed,her wisdom has always helped to guide our Nation,equal in all ways without her there is no balance,no peace and gentleness it is her heart that is the white path we claim to follow.
The Warriors of our own kind have forgotten she is his own mother and grandmother,they no longer show respect or honor to her,only one kind treated others like this,is this how the world should see you,are we now the same as them?
Who with broken heart watches the hungry babies cry,the old ones sigh,and the children die with no justice given,who sees most clearly the injustice of this land she walks,who is now treated the same by the men of her own kind?
How have your own hearts become so cold and hard,forgetting what she means to you,how have our People become exactly what we hated most in them,taking without giving wanting only for ourself with no thought for others?
Has all hope been lost to our Peoples,all honor in our own ways,are the hearts of your women not in the dirt of your own making,kicked and trampled without thought for what is owed to them of love and tenderness for their healing?
Why is there no more respect for self than this,are you so far gone in dishonor and disrespect for self you must now abuse those who give you life,where has gone the teaching of the Elders,have your spirits grown so soiled by hatred?
When was the last time you went to water and cleansing,greeted the rising sun in humble prayer to marvel at Creators glory,you mouth the words hoping for your own praise for knowing them,but you no longer live them.
Are they lost forever to your hearts the old ways taught by your grandmothers,are we so far gone they have won and the genocide complete,what now then should we tell the children who see how you treat the mothers of their own People?
Turn from these ways of dishonor and learn again your own ways,we have walked our own ways as equals in perfect balance,showing respect for each other and the gifting of knowledge by our women,do not follow those who teach such lies to you.
What is it then we are still fighting for,what use to go on,just assimulate and be done,give away all that has kept you strong,brave and true,give away your heart and soul for you are throwing it in the faces of your own ancestors who honored the woman.
If there is pride in your heart for who and what you are,tell me friend who do you owe that too,who taught you it was right and good to have brown faces,whose words whispered comfort when the whole world hates you for your own heritage?
Where did you learn those prayers,at whose feet did you sit knowing you were loved beyond life itself,whose gentle hands caressed away the hurt that lives within you,the rage that boils at the injustices thrown at you,who taught you to be you?
I once knew a man of honor,who loved and respected women in all ways,he was a proud Tsalagi,and a proud MAN,he was my grandfather!
blessings granny!
Woman of the Tsalagi created by Great Mysteries own plan,blood kin to her Mother Earth respecting each other in their giving birth,she need hang her head to no man,or humble herself before him, her words are the lessons we live by and remember.
It is through her the clans are counted,her bloodlines that are followed,her wisdom has always helped to guide our Nation,equal in all ways without her there is no balance,no peace and gentleness it is her heart that is the white path we claim to follow.
The Warriors of our own kind have forgotten she is his own mother and grandmother,they no longer show respect or honor to her,only one kind treated others like this,is this how the world should see you,are we now the same as them?
Who with broken heart watches the hungry babies cry,the old ones sigh,and the children die with no justice given,who sees most clearly the injustice of this land she walks,who is now treated the same by the men of her own kind?
How have your own hearts become so cold and hard,forgetting what she means to you,how have our People become exactly what we hated most in them,taking without giving wanting only for ourself with no thought for others?
Has all hope been lost to our Peoples,all honor in our own ways,are the hearts of your women not in the dirt of your own making,kicked and trampled without thought for what is owed to them of love and tenderness for their healing?
Why is there no more respect for self than this,are you so far gone in dishonor and disrespect for self you must now abuse those who give you life,where has gone the teaching of the Elders,have your spirits grown so soiled by hatred?
When was the last time you went to water and cleansing,greeted the rising sun in humble prayer to marvel at Creators glory,you mouth the words hoping for your own praise for knowing them,but you no longer live them.
Are they lost forever to your hearts the old ways taught by your grandmothers,are we so far gone they have won and the genocide complete,what now then should we tell the children who see how you treat the mothers of their own People?
Turn from these ways of dishonor and learn again your own ways,we have walked our own ways as equals in perfect balance,showing respect for each other and the gifting of knowledge by our women,do not follow those who teach such lies to you.
What is it then we are still fighting for,what use to go on,just assimulate and be done,give away all that has kept you strong,brave and true,give away your heart and soul for you are throwing it in the faces of your own ancestors who honored the woman.
If there is pride in your heart for who and what you are,tell me friend who do you owe that too,who taught you it was right and good to have brown faces,whose words whispered comfort when the whole world hates you for your own heritage?
Where did you learn those prayers,at whose feet did you sit knowing you were loved beyond life itself,whose gentle hands caressed away the hurt that lives within you,the rage that boils at the injustices thrown at you,who taught you to be you?
I once knew a man of honor,who loved and respected women in all ways,he was a proud Tsalagi,and a proud MAN,he was my grandfather!
blessings granny!
Memories!
Do not think just follow,do not allow your mind the time,move,keep moving,simply watch your feet and continue.
Numb and weary,cold and hurting,shuffle,stumble,keep your balance,close your eyes and follow.
Sounds,smells,another shiver your teeth rattle,stomach rumbles loudly,but all it brings is harsh laughter.
Ankles raw,bleeding,tied together,length of rope rough and rasping,keep in step with the others,sting of whip bites deep.
Little ones are crying,old ones sigh but never complain,young ones too tired for fighting,fathers faces blank in hiding hatred.
Fear my first memory,grandmothers arms comfort me,heart quakes each time they approach,not natural but the only life I know.
Hacking coughs a constant sound,deep,tearing,clotted sound,grandmother moves among us all,face showing the strain,not able to help even one.
Bodies burned by fever,eyes red dry and hurting,skin dry and itchy,ribs showing through the skin,starved,kicked and beaten,harsh laughter out of place.
Do not think just follow,do not allow your mind the time,move,just keep moving,if one stumbles all fall,if we fall we are beaten,watch your feet and continue.
Numb,weary,cold,and hurting,sad it is the only life remembered,a four year old who has known no other,hunger,fear,and hurting!
as told by my grandmother!
What Do You Offer?Rising sun brings a song unbidden,heart knows what it owes toCreator,do not hold back bring it forth joyfully.Each day a lesson brings teach us now to speak for peace,humbleman takes a stand to rid this land of hatred.Reach out your hand and understand all it takes is patience,asmile a wave can make anothers day worth living.Kind words voices heard each one sofetly spoken,hard lessons ifyou learn sometimes are the best ones.Look around not at the ground do not pretend to blindness,all that hurt still are worth the time you take for kindness.Listen well to what you say think before you speak,remember now weare cousins all no matter where you came from.Open hand open heart where ever you are standing,all will takewhat you have to give if love is what you offer!granny!
Ancestors Speaking! As for me I need no telling my soul knows at the meeting,a sister or a brother their spirit speaks much louder than the words they say. Those who pretend give away the secret their own ways give them away,those who bear the true blood my friend are different and not just their color. Words come easy and it can be read in books but the truth is in the spirit,what is real can not be bought or read it lives in the blood. Tell me about your grandmother or grandfather let me hear your stories,tell me about your family and the true home of your spirit. There are things never forgotten even through the bad times they defied them,hidden maybe many secrets it was these that gave us strength. The carriers of the true blood are different inside where it counts,there are things that can not be stolen or faked and we know it. Learn to reach out to the ancients listen children with your hearts,do their spirits speak to you or do you block them out? So much around you makes you angry what you see the wanters do to dishonor,your ancestors will guide you to the truth shake away the anger and listen to them! granny!
True Resource!
Deep inside there is a knowing,and that feeling is growing,spirits of the ancestors are calling,hearts of the blood acknowledge.
For the People a renewal a singing time of joyful prayer,Nations gather for the sharing,returning to the ways of our ancestors.
Anger brews and insults flying,it is the People who have adapted,the others knowledge we have collected,their learning was no problem always shallow.
Yet inside lies the truth,it was we who were the Hero's,we who fought for what was right,this is our home,Turtle Island.
All the death,lies,and destruction has cost them more than they have discovered,broken treaties,tears,and torture will be returned with a vengence,the Circle is turning.
Creator made all things to follow a Circle,what you do and sat returns to you,lies told to yourself may comfort,but believe Creator knows the real truth in your hearts and minds there not hidden.
Elders,teachers,healers,warriors,all the world is watching,First Peoples are uniting,for the children we are fighting.
Stories told across this land,give back the language,pride,and connections that were stolen,no more will we sit quiet,hang our heads in silence.
We are the People,this is our heritage,and they can never truly understand it, they take,they use,they throw away,they waste,and yet we are this lands true resources!
granny
Deep inside there is a knowing,and that feeling is growing,spirits of the ancestors are calling,hearts of the blood acknowledge.
For the People a renewal a singing time of joyful prayer,Nations gather for the sharing,returning to the ways of our ancestors.
Anger brews and insults flying,it is the People who have adapted,the others knowledge we have collected,their learning was no problem always shallow.
Yet inside lies the truth,it was we who were the Hero's,we who fought for what was right,this is our home,Turtle Island.
All the death,lies,and destruction has cost them more than they have discovered,broken treaties,tears,and torture will be returned with a vengence,the Circle is turning.
Creator made all things to follow a Circle,what you do and sat returns to you,lies told to yourself may comfort,but believe Creator knows the real truth in your hearts and minds there not hidden.
Elders,teachers,healers,warriors,all the world is watching,First Peoples are uniting,for the children we are fighting.
Stories told across this land,give back the language,pride,and connections that were stolen,no more will we sit quiet,hang our heads in silence.
We are the People,this is our heritage,and they can never truly understand it, they take,they use,they throw away,they waste,and yet we are this lands true resources!
granny
Sunday, March 04, 2007
The Way!Smoke and fire shadow dancing,flames leaping like living spirits,Elders speaking have you listened to them?Hearts are raging battle ready,warriors planning urging each other,power dreams singing in their minds telling them it is time.Dark night moonless sky moving slowly make no noise,finally it came together Eagle leads and we follow,tonight our feathers are earned together.Faces painted magic surging,skin well oiled for protection,quietly through the woods and mountian valley's,slipping along silent and deadly.The soldiers came to the village,the men were gone they were hunting to feed their families,they killed the women and the children,the old ones hid and now tell the story.Today we repay the visit,today we return the favor,their women and children will be replacements,the fort is ours the men are dying as they should,their children will be our future instead.In this world we are taught what is fair for one is fair for all,this is the christian way of justice,this is the way of life they taught us.Why the outcry against the People,they do nothing that was not done to them,we too have a right to be,a right to live,work,play,and breathe.We return in glory,we have done our duty by the People,though the future will look different,the faces will be lighter,but they will carry well the culture.How did the story go,who were the true Hero's,who defended what was right,whose land is this we all live on?granny
Stand Proud,Stand Strong!
Where walks honor there is love and beauty,where there is truth there is also goodness,there is no room for evil and darkness.
Grandmother taught look straight ahead do not listen to the foolishness,just have faith in Creator the Circle turns and so brings justice.
She said let their tongues wag let their lies fly over your head,stand proud,stand strong you know yourself who you are.
Take each day for what it brings,lessons learned,and wisdom gained,do not stoop to their level they burn themselves with their own fire.
Let them wallow in their own filth,they only bring hurt to themselves,where lies are told they will get caught their own webs tangle their lives.
A debt they earn day by day,and believe me child one day they pay,the darkness in their spirit gathers the whole world sees by their own actions.
Stand for what you believe,be honest in all you say and do,let all who see be the judges if they have decency and honor.
Lift your voice in joyful prayer,greet the sun and go to water,live your life as you should for what you do today returns tomorrow.
Be gentle in words,and give of yourself,treat all you meet with kind respect,walk a path you can be proud of let your life speak for itself!
Grandmother Place!
Into the forest dark I travel,to a place my heart holds sacred,here the grandmothers whisper,here I come for guidance.
Warm green and shadow dappled,alive with sounds of Mother Earths small children,here a place old as time,a place of ceremony.
Softly the ancients embrace me,renew the Circle that is waiting,take up the stones that are laid out,to the water for washing.
With loving heart replace them,prayers said and tobacco offered,sprinkle all with corn pollen,here is life,here is balance,here to is rebirth.
Fire built in the center,earth,fire,wind,and water,this is all life,in the trees above the feathered gather,there is no fear as they share the power.
Sage lit in four corners,show honor to the Four Winds,near by the river chuckles as it travels,quietly into the water seven times say the prayers.
Father Sky,Mother Earth,Four Winds,and Creator,tobacco and corn meal are offered,with humble heart I show respect and honor.
Grandmothers of many days are here,gathered to teach their child,arms lifted,voice raised in song,I offer both heart and mind.
It is time the spirits say,the healing begins today,Mother Earth shakes with hurt,her own children have forgotten all they owe her.
Great Mystery has sent the calling,all who are connected feel it,the pain will stop when you stop fighting,open up accept your duty.
It was told from times beginning walk a straight path or face the changes,now the new world dawns,have you learned the needed wisdom?
The Womans time is upon us,no more will we be disrespected and down trodden,stories warned did you listen,passed from the grandmothers to their children,each lesson held true warning.
Now the stones are set,the Circle has been prepared,drum speaks out softly,the grandmothers wisdom is offered,will you ignore or answer,fate of the world rests on your answers!
blessings granny!
Into the forest dark I travel,to a place my heart holds sacred,here the grandmothers whisper,here I come for guidance.
Warm green and shadow dappled,alive with sounds of Mother Earths small children,here a place old as time,a place of ceremony.
Softly the ancients embrace me,renew the Circle that is waiting,take up the stones that are laid out,to the water for washing.
With loving heart replace them,prayers said and tobacco offered,sprinkle all with corn pollen,here is life,here is balance,here to is rebirth.
Fire built in the center,earth,fire,wind,and water,this is all life,in the trees above the feathered gather,there is no fear as they share the power.
Sage lit in four corners,show honor to the Four Winds,near by the river chuckles as it travels,quietly into the water seven times say the prayers.
Father Sky,Mother Earth,Four Winds,and Creator,tobacco and corn meal are offered,with humble heart I show respect and honor.
Grandmothers of many days are here,gathered to teach their child,arms lifted,voice raised in song,I offer both heart and mind.
It is time the spirits say,the healing begins today,Mother Earth shakes with hurt,her own children have forgotten all they owe her.
Great Mystery has sent the calling,all who are connected feel it,the pain will stop when you stop fighting,open up accept your duty.
It was told from times beginning walk a straight path or face the changes,now the new world dawns,have you learned the needed wisdom?
The Womans time is upon us,no more will we be disrespected and down trodden,stories warned did you listen,passed from the grandmothers to their children,each lesson held true warning.
Now the stones are set,the Circle has been prepared,drum speaks out softly,the grandmothers wisdom is offered,will you ignore or answer,fate of the world rests on your answers!
blessings granny!
Dreams Ignored!
Dream time drive me crazy shadows dancing pictures hazy,old one wise one whispers in a language I have not heard since grandmothers journey.
How is it I understand her telling me blue star is rising,it is time she says smiling take your place and speak your mind prepare now to fight for your life.
Soon,soon the battle starts feel the war cry deep inside,let your spirit remember and your blood will guide you ancient eyes filled with excitement.
Fire lit in sacred circle cleansing now is essential,Cedar burn sage smoke rises,Tobacco offered to the old ones new day dawns not just sunrise.
Hurry,hurry beat the drum and start the calling,big drum small drum cleansed and ready sharp hard she shows the tempo stirs the blood feet are dancing.
Dream scenes change but never waver message there is the same one,warriors dance in maidens circle voices lift bringing shivers battle cries fill the valley.
Children called are the seventh generation every color every Nation,time now in motion this is the one told by your grandmothers ancestors call what is your answer?
Those awakened live in confusion Coyote leads strange version,teaching stopped how will they learn now,your own fears are blinding causing you to kill your own dreams of Nation.
Full blood only is your notion reservation and no urban you exclude your own kin,drive away the guiding ancients you will not hear the spirits speaking.
Foolish ones you miss your chances worried about your small allotments,miss your time to move forward reclaim what is in truth your homelands.
Open hearts,minds,and spirits reclaim the children of the lost ones seek them out begin the teaching,Nations own rolls bear the names of those once hidden call out to them.
Elders,teachers do your duty lift your hearts to the ancients use the gift of Creator,Dream the Dreams that you are given bring home your own mixed children Mother Earth is weeping for them!
granny!
Dream time drive me crazy shadows dancing pictures hazy,old one wise one whispers in a language I have not heard since grandmothers journey.
How is it I understand her telling me blue star is rising,it is time she says smiling take your place and speak your mind prepare now to fight for your life.
Soon,soon the battle starts feel the war cry deep inside,let your spirit remember and your blood will guide you ancient eyes filled with excitement.
Fire lit in sacred circle cleansing now is essential,Cedar burn sage smoke rises,Tobacco offered to the old ones new day dawns not just sunrise.
Hurry,hurry beat the drum and start the calling,big drum small drum cleansed and ready sharp hard she shows the tempo stirs the blood feet are dancing.
Dream scenes change but never waver message there is the same one,warriors dance in maidens circle voices lift bringing shivers battle cries fill the valley.
Children called are the seventh generation every color every Nation,time now in motion this is the one told by your grandmothers ancestors call what is your answer?
Those awakened live in confusion Coyote leads strange version,teaching stopped how will they learn now,your own fears are blinding causing you to kill your own dreams of Nation.
Full blood only is your notion reservation and no urban you exclude your own kin,drive away the guiding ancients you will not hear the spirits speaking.
Foolish ones you miss your chances worried about your small allotments,miss your time to move forward reclaim what is in truth your homelands.
Open hearts,minds,and spirits reclaim the children of the lost ones seek them out begin the teaching,Nations own rolls bear the names of those once hidden call out to them.
Elders,teachers do your duty lift your hearts to the ancients use the gift of Creator,Dream the Dreams that you are given bring home your own mixed children Mother Earth is weeping for them!
granny!
We Are Learning! Questions without answers are whispered on the winds,prayers lifted on the smoke wait for Creators blessings. Mother Earth is spinning everything is shifting time is drawing to a close the Fifth World is dawning,tears for all are flowing. Each day brings a worry are the children ready do they remember what the stories had to tell them,they have now been spread far and wide. Look around and know now is the time to gather together we must stand as one people,there is within this story another one to tell. Do I walk this path alone or are you still upon it with me,did you forget the word you gave is your heart still true? There is so much that need be done and all of us must do it,we can not wait for someone else but proudly stand and do it. The tribes are in trouble but the Elders are awakened,teachers stir and stretch they are learning they can do this. All things here changed we need no one to tell us,it is to each other we must look we can not depend on the others. And now I say to you the riddle is yours to answer,if it is meant for you please tell me what my heart yearns for I need to hear it! granny!
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