Discussions

I decided to post this because as I read the views of some members and some have been a bit disturbing to me regarding Native and non-Native relations. Rather than attempt to convince anyone I just don't bother to address/respond to posts that are obviously racist - sugar coated or not. It is sad to see. I have ensured throughout my life to keep the balance of our traditional teachings in the lives of my children. Those teachings involve respect and understanding for "all" nations. A way of life that is challenge everyday. My daughter who is a great mother and strict in the traditional ways is not very different from many of the native women I know. They do what ever it takes to have a good family, maybe not to the standards set by others but the teachings of respect and understanding is a constant. Last night my daughter could not get her son to sleep so she decided to take him for a short walk with her friend. Not far into their walk a car load of men drove up to them and yelled out horrible racist remarks. Now believe me this was not taken with shock but rather acceptance as what is expected. There are so many individuals that are quick to judge the young and old native people. There are many that move forward regardless of hardships and in a good way, the traditional way. This type of behavior shouldn't be something my children should have to accept but "it is reality". I experienced it and they will continue to experience it. Hence, the angry "natives". Some deal with it with positive attitudes and chalk it up as immaturity others react with their anger. The old saying about not judging others until you have walked in their moccasins is very relevant in many of these posts. As for my daughter and her friend they laugh it off as the friend sent out a couple war cries into the night. Probably scared the crap out of some of the residents but that was his way of dealing with it. He is the most gentle young man I know. A real warrior knows and can see through the ugliness of these type of people and in the end draw strength from them. Amazing how Native people all across Turtle Island have adapted and turned what should have destroyed us into a strengthening and positive force.