On the road again

According to Hupa-Hu Maza, the tribe was given it's name, Ihanktonwan, in days long ago, when, at the gathering of tribes, these Nakota would camp on end of the grounds and post warriors on the perimeter as watchmen to keep the rest of the tribes safe, always ready for the possibility of attack.

These days the people are under severe attack, but their foes aren't the Crow or Pawnee. My two days at the Sun Dance have birthed a prayer in my heart, that the Ihanktonwan will once again rise up to be the warrior nation entrusted with the duty of admonishing and protecting the people on the reservations from the destructive forces of addiction, abuse and corruption.

I highly respect and appreciate those who have taken time to teach me about their culture and ways, and though I've only been able to grasp a small piece of this amazing ceremony, I look forward to a future time when we will be together again. My purpose continues, but I have realised that crossing the country on foot is a small trip compared to the journeys that some people face.

Prior to leaving Wagner, uncle Iron Wing and I get together again and he sings a traditional blessing for my travels. In turn, I pray that when the storm clouds gather and the lightning flashes, when the clown brings his pipe to the field to meet with the grandfathers, that the eyes of his heart will be enlightened and he will receive the precious gift that he needs.



Wopila Dekshi