Sacred connection

Native American Indians have always had a deep connection to the land because it is our mother, she is what provides us the nourishment to live here.  This respect lives deep within all natives, the connection is there even if it doesn't appear to us.  It is silent and has no words, it is all action.  When we flock to pow wows across the land, we do it to be with the drums, people, and the land.  When we sing, it is our appreciation for the gifts that we are given in life and the blessings we've received.  It is our voices caressing every blade of grass and every leaf and tree around us that connects.  When we dance, our connection to the land is rythmic and it expresses our gratitude for this life we live.  There are not much words to explain what it means to natives and their connection to the land, it is something that is felt.  We value all things because all things are alive.  If we take from the land, an offering of tobacco and a prayer is given before we take anything.  It is our way of showing gratitude.  Even though today we are re-teaching ourselves the ways of the past, the teachings are inate and we understand the teachings.  No one has to tell us it is right, we know.  It is the sacred connection that is opened with the Creator and no one ever has to tell you when that happens, you will know.  It is not written in a book somewhere of how you should feel.  The spirit that lives inside of us knows all things and when we are fully aware of who we are, then the connection to everything comes alive.  It is the sacred gift of life promised by the Creator.

Grass dancers at Whitesand pow wow 2010

~Miigwetch