Log in

View Full Version : Meditation for the day


Pages : [1] 2 3

cherokee_greg
05-07-2011, 10:11 AM
Each day I have a meditation before I start my day. I hope you dont mind me sharing todays with you all. It has allot of meaning to me. Thanks

Elder's Meditation of the Day - May 7
"We must all become caretakers of the Earth."
-- -- Haida Gwaii Traditional Circle of Elders
Mother Earth is the source of all life. We should not only be concerned about the part of the Earth we live on, but we should be concerned about the parts of the Earth that other people live on. The Earth is one great whole. The trees in Brazil generate the air in the Untied States. If the trees are cut in Brazil, it affects the air that all people breathe. Every person needs to conscientiously think about how they respect the Earth. Do we dump our garbage out of the car? Do we poison the water? Do we poison the air? Am I taking on the responsibility of being a caretaker of the Earth?

Great Spirit, today, I will be aware of the Earth. I will be responsible.

nannerfunboi
05-31-2011, 08:59 PM
excellent cherokee !!
i do so much better in so many ways when i take only a few
minutes to meditate..
i have marcus aurelius's .. meditations.. always at my desk
and there are so many thoughts there.. applications in so many
ways..
i should take more time and just read and reflect more
so easy to get caught up in..yard,cleaning,mowing,weeding,painting
work,employee troubles,friends,family..bla..bla..
lol

Jananas Bananas
05-31-2011, 09:04 PM
Excellent Greg, Excellent!!!!! :giveflowersnana:

~JaNan

cherokee_greg
05-31-2011, 09:26 PM
Thanks I thought maybe some would get offended by these here is todays
Elder's Meditation of the Day - May 31
"Sell a country? Why not sell the air, the great sea, as well as the Earth? Did not the Great Spirit make them all for the use of his children?"
-- Tecumseh, SHAWNEE
The White Man's way is to possess, control, and divide. It has always been difficult for Indian people to understand this. There are certain things we cannot own that must be shared. The Land is one of these things. We need to re-look at what we are doing to the Earth. We are digging in her veins and foolishly diminishing the natural resources. We are not living in balance. We do not own the Earth; the Earth owns us. Today, let us ponder the true relationship between the Earth and ourselves.

Great Spirit, today, let me see the Earth as you would have me see Her.

nannerfunboi
05-31-2011, 09:28 PM
cherokee..
hope you post more of your insights..thoughts..
life is about constant learning.. at least for me..
so..no offense taken here!!
keep posting man!!!!
:)

cherokee_greg
05-31-2011, 09:33 PM
cherokee..
hope you post more of your insights..thoughts..
life is about constant learning.. at least for me..
so..no offense taken here!!
keep posting man!!!!
:)

Wado thank you in Cherokee. I will post them . Mom always tells me stories of the past. Im always asking her questions. The old ones have so much wisdom more than people think.

nannerfunboi
05-31-2011, 09:37 PM
cherokee..
that is so true.. when i was a kid i was so full of myself...LOL
more than most kids i think..LOL
when i was in college rubbing shoulders with so many other
cultures.. i started to realize..wow..my folks are smart..LOL
both my parents are gone now.. but my brother and i talk all the time
of things our parents talked about.. family,growing up during the
depression,making their way thru college,stuff..
i really miss that..
but i have the memories..and i cherish them..
there is so much to be grateful for.. to see and be thankful
life is good..
again..
thanks tons man for your thoughts !!!!!!!

cherokee_greg
05-31-2011, 09:49 PM
cherokee..
that is so true.. when i was a kid i was so full of myself...LOL
more than most kids i think..LOL
when i was in college rubbing shoulders with so many other
cultures.. i started to realize..wow..my folks are smart..LOL
both my parents are gone now.. but my brother and i talk all the time
of things our parents talked about.. family,growing up during the
depression,making their way thru college,stuff..
i really miss that..
but i have the memories..and i cherish them..
there is so much to be grateful for.. to see and be thankful
life is good..
again..
thanks tons man for your thoughts !!!!!!!

Mom was raised during the depression in Oklahoma. She tells me how her grandfather made moonshine and rode a horse she said he was wild. LOL.

orinoko
06-01-2011, 04:51 AM
Greg,

I loved that and yes, you should post more. I am a very 'earthy person' and I am very much into Conservation.

I love talking to old people, who else knows better than we, if not they? The longer they live, the more they have to tell us.

I used to talk to an old lady on my block before I moved, she died just after her 100th birthday. She used to talk to me about how it used to be, her family, her grandchildren etc. I would sit mesmerised by the struggles these old folk faced during the war...ration books etc.

I like 'of the day', some Interesting subjects to be found. Yours is one of them.
:nanadrink:

Richard
06-01-2011, 08:23 AM
The trees in Brazil generate the air in the Untied States. If the trees are cut in Brazil, it affects the air that all people breathe.

To tell peoples of other countries not to cut their trees is hypocrisy. The forests of the eastern U.S. were once solid from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mississippi River. In California, Oaks and Sycamores were the predominant plant in many areas. Our mountains were full of Cedar: a hundred years ago woodworking and cabinetry were predominate industries in California. To be truly responsible, we should replant what we as a society have taken and set an example for the rest of the world.

cherokee_greg
06-01-2011, 08:44 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 1
"You have to have a lot of patience to hear those old people talk, because when they talk, they talk about motivation, the feeling, the unsound that is around the universe. They explain everything to one understanding. They bring it all together, and when they finish, just one word comes out. Just one word. They might talk all day, and just one word comes out."
-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA
We need to be careful about judging the old ones when we talk. At first they may not make sense to us. Maybe we'll say they're old fashioned and don't understand. But the old ones do understand! When they speak, listen very carefully. Often it will take weeks or maybe even years before we understand what they are really saying. This is the way of Wisdom. We need to listen, listen, listen.

Great Spirit, today, open my ears so I can hear the Elders

orinoko
06-01-2011, 11:19 AM
To tell peoples of other countries not to cut their trees is hypocrisy. The forests of the eastern U.S. were once solid from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mississippi River. In California, Oaks and Sycamores were the predominant plant in many areas. Our mountains were full of Cedar: a hundred years ago woodworking and cabinetry were predominate industries in California. To be truly responsible, we should replant what we as a society have taken and set an example for the rest of the world.

Yes but Richard some of the hardwood trees logged will take many years to replace whats destoyed for gold.

But can't discuss that here its Greg's Meditate thread.

Do youngsters ever listen to their 'elders' Greg..I never did. Over the years since my parents deaths I have cause to rememeber somethings they said...most of them 'not to do something'.

:waving::waving:

cherokee_greg
06-02-2011, 08:51 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 2
"The Natural Law is the final and absolute authority governing E Te No Ha, the earth we call our Mother."
-- Traditional Circle of Elders
There is no power greater than the Natural Laws. These powers were set up by the Great Spirit in such a way that the human being has no access to it, except by obeying. If we choose not to follow the Natural Laws, our live will be filled with confusion, tension, anxiety and stress. If we poison the Earth, we poison ourselves. If we poison the Water of the Earth, we poison ourselves. As we do to the Earth, we do to ourselves and our children, even the children unborn. May we think about this today and ask ourselves, "Are we holding and acting toward the Mother Earth in a good way?"

Great Spirit, teach me the Natural Laws that govern the Earth.

cherokee_greg
06-03-2011, 09:39 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 3
"IN THE BEGINNING were the Instructions... The Instruction was to live in a good way and be respectful to everybody and everything."
-- Vickie Downey, TEWA/Tesuque Pueblo
A long time ago, in the beginning, the Creator gave to all people and to all things the Wisdom and the knowledge of how to live in harmony. Some tribes call these teachings the original Instructions, the original teachings, or the Great Laws. All of Nature still lives and survives according to these teachings. In modern times, human beings are searching for the Instructions. Many churches claim they have these Instructions. Where are these teachings? The Instructions are written in our hearts.

Great Spirit, today, whisper to me the secrets of the original Instructions

The Hollyberry Lady
06-03-2011, 10:32 AM
What a fantastic thread, Greg!!! :waving:


I sure enjoyed reading all your daily affirmations and hope to read more...


<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/97LrR0qeQVw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


: )

cherokee_greg
06-03-2011, 10:38 AM
[QUOTE=The Hollyberry Lady;164360][COLOR="DarkOrchid"][B]What a fantastic thread, Greg!!! :waving:


I sure enjoyed reading all your daily affirmations and hope to read more...


Nice video thanks Im happy you like the meditations. Well I better go going to chemo Ya its Friday. Short day at chemo.

Jananas Bananas
06-03-2011, 10:21 PM
Greg look at this!

Powerful, rare symbol to American Indians: A white buffalo is born in North Texas | kvue.com Austin (http://www.kvue.com/news/state/123098148.html)

Thought you might like to see it.

~JaNan

cherokee_greg
06-04-2011, 08:59 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 4
"Wakan Tanka never stops creating."
-- Archie Fire Lame Deer, LAKOTA
The Medicine Wheel teaches about change. It says that which is created will fall apart; that which is loose, will be used to create new. In other words, everything on Earth is participating in a constant change that is being directed by an order of laws and principles which were originated by the Great Spirit. We humans are equipped with natural change abilities. We have the ability to vision; we can use imagination and imagery; we can change belief, attitude, habits, and expectations. We need to know ourselves and we need to know how we work inside to enable us to change naturally.

Great Spirit, teach me to change in harmony

cherokee_greg
06-05-2011, 10:55 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 5
"It is not through the great skill of the hunter himself that success is achieved, but through the hunter's awareness of his place in Creation and his relationship to all things."
-- Thomas Yellowtail, CROW
If only the human being could understand the power of proper relationships, the need for power and control could be abandoned. It's not what is going on that matters, but how we look at what is going on. It's our relationship to it that counts. Nothing in the world has any meaning except the meaning we give to it. To be more effective at this, we need to consider our relationship with the Creator. Our relationship to the Great Spirit determines how we will perceive the meanings we put to places, people, institutions, and things. We need to let the Creator tell us and guide our thoughts about these relationships. Any relationship that we have that is causing problems means we need to pray for a new point of view.

Creator, let me see the world and the people through your eyes.

cherokee_greg
06-06-2011, 09:38 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 6
"We need to save those Elders who cannot speak for themselves -- the trees."
-- Haida Gwaii, Traditional Circle of Elders
The trees are the Elders of the Earth. Go to the forest or to the mountains and find a young tree. Then find an old tree. Spend time with each. Sit by the young tree and listen to your thoughts. Then move to an old tree and listen to your thoughts again. Just being in the presence of an old tree, you will feel more calm. Your thoughts will contain wisdom and your answers will be deeper. Why is this so? These old trees know more, have heard more, and are the Elders of the Earth. We must ensure these trees live so we can learn from them.

My Creator, help me to protect the trees and listen to them.

The Hollyberry Lady
06-06-2011, 10:12 PM
I'm really enjoying these, Greg. Yesterday's meditation was especially meaningful. ;)


Please keep them coming...


: )

cherokee_greg
06-07-2011, 09:21 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 7
"If there is a shadow of a doubt someplace, that will cause a weakness."
-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA
In the Spiritual World there is a spiritual Law. The Law says; like attracts like. This means whatever mental picture we hold inside our minds we will attract from the Universe. To make this Law work we must maintain a constant picture. If we picture or vision something, and along with this picture we have doubting thoughts, our vision will not happen and we will get EXACTLY what we picture or vision. The Law always works. A doubting vision will not materialize what we want. A vision without doubt will always happen. This is a spiritual Law.

My Maker, today, let my vision become strong.

nannerfunboi
06-07-2011, 09:39 AM
greg.. truely much thanks for your inspirational posts..
i guess we all take from them depending upon our own personal
lifes experiences..
for me..the last week or so has been higher in stress.. work..life..bla..bla
havent had alot of time and i took time to read last several posts of yours
they have helped me..
much thanks man!!!!
its a journey.. :)

cherokee_greg
06-08-2011, 09:44 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 8
"So we are connected to the moon. That gives us power, a connection to the Earth and the moon, men don't know about."
-- Cecilia Mitchell, MOHAWK
The Elders tell us that the Woman has access to special powers. The Earth Mother gives her love in a special way to the Woman. The Moon also gives special powers to the Woman. She uses these powers to nurture, heal, and guide the people.

Great Spirit, today, give a special Blessing to our Women.

cherokee_greg
06-09-2011, 09:53 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 9
Every part of this country is sacred to my people. Every hillside, every valley, every plain and grove has been hallowed by some fond memory or some sad experience of my tribe. Even the rocks, which seem to lie dumb as they swelter in the sun along the silent shore in solemn grandeur, thrill with memories of past events connected with the fate of my people.
-- -Chief Seattle, SUQUAMISH
Native people say the Earth is sacred. Some places on Earth will feel more sacred than others. You can often feel the sacredness of these places because of what has happened on them. If you do a ceremony on a certain place and return later, whatever happened before will still be there to help you. Even if someone you didn't know did something on the Earth and you come along later, the powers will be there to help you. This is why the Earth is sacred and these special places are sacred spots.

My Creator, let the powers of the sacred places help the people today.

nannerfunboi
06-09-2011, 03:37 PM
thanks again greg.. ya know.. my mom who was an avid gardener.. when she
pruned a bush..tree,cleared some area out..whatever.. i remember she would
speak to that area..and thank it for whatever was/had been there...i thought she was nuts..LOL :) but i do the same now.. funny.. i took out some fruit trees to clean an area in back.. i put in tons of compost.. and coco coir..
to ready it for planting this yr..and future.. i made a present to the area.
guess im nuts like mom.. heehehe..
but i agree with your post greg.. good stuff!!!!
and you get feeling better soon man...
:goteam:

The Hollyberry Lady
06-09-2011, 03:51 PM
Yes Greg, I agree with Nannerfunboi...great stuff!!! :08:


I enjoy reading these everyday. I really thought the excerpt on June 7th was meaningful. They're all really thought provoking and worth noting. Gosh Greg, what a great idea for a thread. :D


My mom used to meditate for years and years and would get up at the crack of dawn to do so. I have a lot of meditation and positive affirmation books too, but I haven't read them in awhile. You've inspired me. ;)


I can barely wait to see what tomorrow's meditation will be...


: )

cherokee_greg
06-10-2011, 09:32 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 10
"Each day, whatever I am doing, I am always praying and thinking of God."
-- Thomas Yellowtail, CROW
Have you ever tried going through your day and carrying on a conversation with the Creator? Many of our Elders live in prayer. They talk to the Creator like the Creator is their best friend. It is easiest to do this if we pray in the morning and ask the Great Spirit to direct our thinking. When the Creator is involved in guiding our lives, we will have less stress, anxiety, and tension. Maybe this is something we would like to try today. "Oh, Creator, look at the Sun, how beautiful you have made it. Oh, look at this child, isn't she just beautiful! Well, Creator, I'm not sure how I should do this task, what do you think? This person is starting to irritate me; I need your help to redirect my thinking. Thanks for returning me to a peaceful mind." Remember, the Creator also has a sense of humor.

Grandfather, Grandmother, let me walk in prayer.

The Hollyberry Lady
06-10-2011, 07:20 PM
Oh this is a very good one, Greg. And when you stay in close contact with God, all kinds of great ideas pop into your mind that you wouldn't have thought of before.


A lot of people don't realize it though. It's like when something we buy is broken, we take it back to the manufacturer. It's the same with us, when we have problems, we should look to our maker for a fix and a solution. :D


Thanks for another great one, Greg.


: )

cherokee_greg
06-11-2011, 11:27 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 11
"Behold, my bothers, the spring has come; the earth has received the embraces of the sun and we shall soon see the results of that love!"
-- Sitting Bull, SIOUX
Spring is the season of love. Spring is the season of new life, new relationships. It is the springtime that really reacts to the new position of Father Sun. New life forms all over the planet. Life is abundant. New cycles are created. Mother Earth changes colors, the flowers are abundant. It is the time for humans to observe nature and let nature create within us the feeling of Spring. We should let ourselves renew. We should let go of the feeling of Winter. We should be joyful and energetic.

My Maker, let me, today, feel the feelings of Spring.

orinoko
06-11-2011, 02:16 PM
I love Spring,

Yes Greg, its for new beginings. No sight like the sight of lambs in spring. I just read there was 400 born at Piddington, West Wycombe - England. Apparently they allow the children in to play with them, have their picture taken with them.

Sweet! :03::waving::lurk:

cherokee_greg
06-12-2011, 10:17 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 12
"The faces of our future generations are looking up to us from the earth and we step with great care not to disturb our grandchildren."
-- Traditional Circle of Elders
The leaves, when they are finished with their life on the trees, will return to the Earth. The leaves that return to the Earth are the future trees. So inside the Mother Earth are the future forests. The human, when finished with its life on the Earth, will return to the Earth. So in the Earth are our future grandchildren. Knowing this, we should be respectful of the place where our future generations live. Only take from the Earth what you need. Every time you pick a plant or Medicine, leave an offering and leave a prayer. Be respectful and walk in a sacred way.

Great Spirit, teach me to respect the place of future generations.

cherokee_greg
06-14-2011, 10:08 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 13
"We have an old saying, Everything living must die. Only the rocks and mountains are forever."
-- Archie Fire Lame Deer, LAKOTA
The Creator designed all life to happen in a circle. For example, the cycle of life for the human being is Baby, Youth, Adult, Elder, then we die. The trees and the leaves happen in a circle; the leaves bud, then the leaves mature, next the leaves change color, and at last they fall off the tree to return to the Mother Earth. The birds bear their young, raise their young, then they die. The salmon are born, swim to the ocean, live their lives, swim back to the spawning grounds, then die. All aspects of the Life Cycle should be honored.

Great Spirit, today, let me enjoy today.

cherokee_greg
06-14-2011, 10:10 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 14
"The basis of knowledge is the fire, rock, water, and green. But when that power was given to man, he used it to twist his own mind. Tunkashila gave man just one drop of that wisdom."
-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA
All of Nature has the wisdom to follow the Natural Laws. All of Nature knows how to live in harmony and use this wisdom in a good way, with exception of the human being. Often we misuse this wisdom. Wisdom always remains with those who use it in the proper way. Nature has used this wisdom well, so now we need to go to Her so we humans can relearn and change our lives. May we start doing this today, before it is too late.

Creator, let me be open to the lessons that Nature can teach me.

cherokee_greg
06-15-2011, 11:09 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 15
"Today, what is important for us is to realize that the old sacred ways are correct, and that if we do not follow them we will be lost and without a guide."
-- Thomas Yellowtail, CROW
A long time ago the Creator gave to the people all the knowledge on how we should live and conduct ourselves. The Native people have been influenced by outside "tribes" who don't know about the Sacred Way. Our Elders still know about the old sacred ways. We need to consult and talk to them before it's too late. Every family needs to seriously evaluate whether they are living according to the old knowledge. If we are fault finding, putting one another down, being selfish, being violent to our spouses or children, if we are cheating and being dishonest, then we are not living the old Sacred Way. The old way is about respect, love, forgiveness and sharing.

Great Spirt, today, teach me the old Sacred Way you taught my ancestors.

cherokee_greg
06-16-2011, 10:35 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 16
"For me, the essence of a medicine man's life is to be humble, to have great patience, to be close to the Earth, to live as simply as possible, and to never stop learning."
-- Archie Fir Lame Deer, LAKOTA
The Medicine people focus on their Being, not their doing. After all, we are human beings not human doings. The Medicine people are very patient and consciously trying to live a life of humility. Medicine people are servant leaders. Their main purpose is to serve the needs of others. By this service attitude, they become the leaders people listen to and the leaders the people want to follow. The Medicine people say everyone is their teacher. Maybe we should try to live this way ourselves; humble, patient, honoring the Earth and listening to our teachers.

Grandfather, today, let me know all people are my teachers and I am the student.

cherokee_greg
06-17-2011, 11:19 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 17
"Your power comes from the songs."
-- Ethel Wilson, COWICHAN
If you do not know any of the songs, ask an Elder to teach you. Get yourself a drum. When you sing a song and play the drum, you'll be surprised how your mind, body, and spirit will react. Everything becomes calm and joyful. Our bodies love the songs. The songs allow us to touch the hand of the Creator. When we sing and touch the Great Spirit's hand, He gives us power. Songs are another way to pray.

My Grandfather, teach me a song today.

cherokee_greg
06-18-2011, 09:49 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 18
"I am particularly fond of the little groves of oak trees. I love to look at them, because they endure the wintry storm and the summer's heat, and, not unlike ourselves, seem to flourish by them."
-- Sitting Bull, SIOUX
Every season, Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter, has gifts that it gives to all creatures. The animals will develop thicker furs just before Winter and will shed this fur in the Spring. Squirrels will store their food in the Fall; other animals build up fat so they can hibernate during the Winter. We can watch all forms of nature and see all creatures work in harmony with the seasons. The secret for us is to learn by observing nature. Watch the trees. Learn from them. We human beings need to learn the gifts and blessings of the seasons.

Grandfather, Grandmother, teach me to live in harmony with the seasons.

cherokee_greg
06-19-2011, 08:49 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 19
"Respect should be given those indigenous nations who still carry on their ceremonies; still following the ancient laws of nature with songs and ceremonies."
-- Oren R. Lyons, Spokesman, Traditional Circle of Elders
Many of our Tribes still have the ceremonies, songs and traditions. Today, the ceremonies and songs are coming back even stronger. The Elders have a lot of this knowledge. The young people need to learn these songs and traditions from the Elders. This is the strength of the people. The ancient Wisdom and Knowledge of ancient Laws are hidden in the ceremonies and songs. We should seek out these songs and ceremonies.

Great Spirit, teach me the songs and ceremonies. Make my eyes open to see.

cherokee_greg
06-20-2011, 09:22 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 20
"But in the Indian Spirit the land is still vested; it will be until other men are able to divine and meet its rhythm. Men must be born and reborn to belong. Their bodies must be formed of the dust of their forefathers' bones."
-- Luther Standing Bear, OGLALA SIOUX
It is said when we walk on the Earth, we are walking on our ancestors and our unborn children. This is the relationship Native People have with the Earth. It is this relationship which gives insight into the Earth's rhythm and heartbeat and creates the feeling of belonging. If you feel you belong to something, you'll treat it with respect. If you feel you are above something, you'll treat it with disrespect. Indian Spirituality is tied to the Earth. We belong to the Earth along with all other creatures on the Earth. We must align to this realization.

Great Spirit, today, teach me to respect the Earth Mother.

cherokee_greg
06-21-2011, 11:19 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 21
"The god that people reject is not the true god, it is a god they have conjured up apart from proper education, and understanding. In such cases, the least Fools Crow will do is to call their assumptions into question, and force them to re-evaluate their position."
-- Thomas Mails on Fools Crow, LAKOTA
Inside of every person - man, woman, and child - is the knowledge that there is a Supreme Being. Many of us have been taught that the Creator is a punishing God. We have been taught about feelings of guilt and shame when we do things wrong. We have been taught that God gets angry and disappointed with us. The Elders teach us that the Creator is a loving and forgiving God. He loves us during our good days and He loves us during our bad days. He doesn't know how to do anything but love. If I really want to find out about the true God, I only need to ask in prayer. There is one thing that God cannot do and that is refuse help to one of His children who asks.

My Creator, I ask You to be a part of my life today. Whisper to me Your wisdom. Let me feel Your presence. If I am doubtful and afraid, show me, in terms I can understand, You are real.

cherokee_greg
06-22-2011, 08:55 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 22
"The one who wishes to be a true medicine person must be a person of faith, and they can only work successfully with those who also have faith."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
Medicine People are spiritual beings who have made a decision to seek the Red Road. They sacrifice and seek the way of the Creator. After many years of dedication, the Grandfathers teach them about power, and about laws, and about how to use the medicine. The Medicine People develop tremendous faith in their medicine and in the Creator. When we go to the Medicine People, we too must have faith so they can help us. We can only be helped if we want to be helped. Because the Medicine People know how to help - that is only one half of it. The other half is up to us. We must have faith that the medicine has powers to help.

My Creator, faith is belief without evidence. Today, give me the faith. Let me trust that You are running my life. Let me know You are in charge of all things. Let my mind not wonder; let me stand strong on Your path today.

cherokee_greg
06-23-2011, 01:45 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - June 23
"He [Wakan Tanka] walks with us along the pathways of Life, and He can do for us what we could never do on our own."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
With the Creator in our lives, we are everything. Without the Creator, we are nothing. When the Creator is in our life, suddenly the impossible becomes possible. The extraordinary becomes ordinary. Things we thought could never happen start to happen. Talents we never know we had, start to blossom. Resources appear. Help arrives to give us guidance and direction. We become happy. We have peace of mind and confidence.

Oh Great Spirit, today I want You in my life. The days that I know You are with me are the days that are perfect. Let me be joyful today.

The Hollyberry Lady
06-23-2011, 05:45 PM
It's just so nice of you to continue to share these with us, Greg. ;) I really like the values they teach. Always a pleasure reading.

: )

cherokee_greg
06-24-2011, 11:01 AM
This is the way I try and walk each day
To Walk the Red Road



The Red Road is a long road winding began in the stars, spilled onto the mountain tops, was carried in the snow to the streams, to the rivers, to the ocean… It covers Canada, Alaska, America, Mexico to Guatemala, and keeps winding around the Indigenous.


The Red Road is a circle of people standing hand in hand, people in this world, people between people in the Spirit world, star people, animal people, stone people, river people, tree people… The Sacred Hoop.



To walk the Red Road is to know sacrifice, suffering. It is to understand humility. It is the ability to stand naked before the Creator in all things for your wrong doings, for your lack of strength, for your uncompassionate way, for your arrogance - because to walk the Red Road, you always know you can do better. And you know, when you do good things, it is through the Creator, and you are grateful.



To walk the Red Road is to know you stand on equal ground with all living things. It is to know that because you were born human, it gives you superiority over nothing. It is to know that every creation carries a Spirit, and the river knows more than you do, the mountains know more than you do, the stone people know more than you do, the trees know more than you do, the wind is wiser than you are, and animal people carry wisdom.


You can learn from every one of them, because they have something you don't. They are void of evil thoughts. They wish vengeance on no one, they seek Justice.
To Walk the Red Road, you have given rights. You have the right to pray, you have the right to dance, you have the right to think, you have the right to protect, you have the right to know Mother Earth, you have the right to dream, you have the right to vision, you have the right to teach, you have the right to learn, you have a right to grieve, you have a right to happiness, you have the right to fix the wrongs, you have the right to truth, you have a right to the Spirit World.


To Walk the Red Road is to know your Ancestors, to call to them for assistance. It is to know that there is good medicine, and there is bad medicine. It is to know that Evil exists, but is cowardly, as it is often in disguise. It is to know there are evil spirits who are in constant watch for a way to gain strength for themselves at the expense of you.



To Walk the Red Road, you have less fear of being wrong, because you know that life is a journey, a continuous circle, a sacred Hoop. Mistakes will be made, and mistakes can be corrected - if you will be humble, for if you cannot be humble, you will never know when you have made a mistake. If you walk the Red Road, you know that every sorrow leads to a better understanding, every horror cannot be explained, but can offer growth.



To Walk the Red Road is to look for beauty in all things.



To Walk the Red Road is to know you will one day cross to the Spirit World, and you will not be afraid.

cherokee_greg
06-25-2011, 09:13 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day June 25



"We are called hollow bones for our people and for anyone else we can help, and we are not supposed to seek power for our personal use and honor."





--Fools Crow, LAKOTA



In order for us to use our power well, we must become a hollow bone. We must prepare ourselves to become a channel. Our channel must be clean before we can use our power well. We must be free of resentments, guilt, shame, anger, self pity, and fear. If these things are in us, we cannot be hollow bones. These things block us from our power. The cleaner we are, the more power we move. We must become a hollow bone so the Creator can use us to do what he wants us to do.


My Creator, remove from me today all resentment, anger, fear, guilt and selfishness. Do not let my weaknesses stand in the way of my usefulness to You. Make me a hollow bone so Your power can flow through me.

cherokee_greg
06-26-2011, 08:58 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day June 26



"...when faithful human beings or other creatures called upon them for help, they [the Powers of the Four Directions] must send their powers..."





--Fools Crow, LAKOTA



Each of the four directions has special powers. These powers or Grandfathers are there to help us. The powers are from the East, the South, the West, and the North. To call upon the power we need to stand in the center and face each of the directions and honor all forms of life in each direction. Facing the East we honor all the two legged, four legged, winged ones, plants' nation and the animals. We repeat this prayer in each of the four directions. This allows us to become centered. When we are centered, then we are ready to call the helpers. It is said, when the student is ready, the teacher appears. If we are to be ready, we need to remember to always get quiet first. We do this by honoring and praying to the four directions.


Grandfathers from the four directions, come to me today with Your powers. Give me Your gifts so I can serve the people.

cherokee_greg
06-27-2011, 11:39 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day June 27



"What could be greater than to be Wakan-Tanka's mind, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, arms, hands, legs, and feet here on Earth?"





--Fools Crow, LAKOTA



In order for the Creator to do His work on this earth, He needs the human being to do it. How He guides us is through our eyes, ears, hands, nose, mouth, arms legs and feet. We are instruments of the Creator. We are His keepers of the Earth. We are the keepers of our brothers. We are to teach His children. We are to respect the things He has made. We are to take care of ourselves and treat our bodies and our minds with respect. We are to do respectful things. We are to walk the Sacred Path. We should have good thoughts. We should do only things that we think the Creator would have us do. What an honor to be a human being. What an honor that He would talk to us and guide us to perform His wonders.


Oh Great Spirit, let me appreciate the role you have given me. Let my sense be sharp to hear Your voice. Keep my mind clean so I can do the things You would have me do.

cherokee_greg
06-27-2011, 12:02 PM
For me these meditations are what keeps me in check. When I first started on my sobriety I had collected a allot of years. But I was doing it on my own. I was going to meetings and doing what I needed to do to get another day sober. Finally I rellapsed. I did not drink but I smoked weed. I was not proud when I did it. I felt so much guilt. I did not tell anyone but Creater knew and I knew.Every year I would take mom to the red road powwow at the coast. She ask me if we were going. I told her no. But I gave in and took her. When they were giving the sobriety count down and came to my year mom looked at me and said its your turn go get your chip. I just started crying. She looked at me and said its ok. Just start over. I did not have to say a word. She said im proud of you son. Wow. That day my life changed I changed I was free. I now walk the red road of sobriety. Im free. I got my chip that day as a new commer nobody looked down on me I felt so much freedom that day.

cherokee_greg
06-28-2011, 10:36 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day June 28



"Whenever you take anything from the Earth, remember to leave an offering."





--Joe Coyhis, STOCKBRIDGE-MUNSEE



We need to look at nature and its inhabitants as our brothers and sisters. Whenever we pick plants or herbs, we should leave an offering of tobacco. We should talk to the plants and ask their permission to use them. The plants will feel honored to be of service for each of them knows they are here to serve. Each of them knows they carry a special medicine and this medicine is about continuing the cycle of life. We need always to be grateful to our brothers and sisters.


Creator, I thank you for the opportunity of life.

cherokee_greg
06-29-2011, 11:54 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day June 29



"We forget so we consider ourselves superior. But we are, after all, a mere part of the creation and we must consider to understand where we are and we stand somewhere between the mountain and the Ant. Somewhere and only there is a part and parcel of the creation."





--Chief Oren Lyons, ONONDAGA



Every human being gathers information from the center of a circle. If we are not careful, we soon think we are the center of all things. Therefore, it is easy to become self centered. Once we become self centered we start to think we are above all things and therefore superior. But we are really only one part of a great whole. The universe is all connected. Each part is here to do something special and according to its design. We are here to honor and respect the job of each part. We are neither above nor below anything. We need not be ruler over anything, we need only to live in honor and harmony with the system.


My Creator, help me to view and conduct myself in a manner of respect, dignity and honor to all creation. Let me see You in all things.

cherokee_greg
06-30-2011, 11:42 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day June 30



"Words hypnotize and deceive everyone at one time or another, but these hypnotic words cannot last long in the hearts of true warriors."





--Barney Bush, SHAWNEE



We are a part of an interconnected system. Words in themselves have no meaning. It is the spirit and intent behind the words that really show the meaning. We are connected to each other at the center of the atom which makes up the air and our body. The center of the air's atom system is connected to the center of our body's system. I am connected to you and you are connected to me in the center of our being. If my words have no meaning, you can feel this through the center of your being.


Great Spirit, help me make my word good. Let me do the things I say I will, and let me say the things I will do - and do it.

cherokee_greg
07-01-2011, 10:11 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 1
"I'm an Indian, I'm one of God's children."
-- Mathew King, LAKOTA
My Creator, today let me remember the reason I'm here on Mother Earth. Let me look into my own eyes and see the beauty You have created. Let me have good thoughts. Being Indian is not the color of my skin. Being Indian is to listen to my heart, to think only the things You have taught, to watch nature, and live in harmony. Being Indian is to walk in prayer, to talk to You constantly during the day. Being Indian is to act and to walk in a sacred way.

Today, let me think in beauty, let me walk in beauty, let me pray in beauty.

cherokee_greg
07-02-2011, 08:57 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 2



"If I destroy you, I destroy myself. If I honor you, I honor myself."





--Hunbatz Men, MAYAN



It is said, when we need love the most is when we deserve it the least. Whenever I have secret thoughts about someone else, it will put bad feelings inside myself. I will hurt myself. If I secretly hold a grudge or resentment against my brother or sister, I will be a slave to that person until I let them go. Let me remember to look at my brother in a sacred manner. Today, let me think like a Warrior. Let my thoughts toward my brothers and sisters be good thoughts. Let me remember that You are in charge. If I get upset at another person today, let me remember that the most important thing I can do is to first talk to You because when I am right with You, it is impossible to be out of harmony with my brothers and sisters.


My Creator, take my hand and guide me through today.

cherokee_greg
07-03-2011, 11:37 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 3



"When you are in the woods, you cannot ever be lost. You are surrounded by friends and surrounded by God."





--Joe Coyhis, STOCKBRIDGE-MUNSEE



Every plant, every animal, every insect, every bird, every tree is made up of God. God is life and everything is alive. When you are hunting, remember all nature is your friend. All nature has purpose. All nature participates in the life cycle. Nature communicates; Nature talks; Nature listens; Nature forgives; Nature respects; Nature loves. Nature lives in harmony. Nature follows the law. Nature is kind. Nature is balance. The woods are alive and beautiful. She is our friend.


Great Spirit, let me honor and respect the forest and all the life it contains.

The Hollyberry Lady
07-03-2011, 07:54 PM
These last two are just excellent, Greg. I miss the woods and how you feel when you're in them. Nature is indeed beautiful. :D


Looking forward to tomorrow's post...


: )

cherokee_greg
07-05-2011, 10:10 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 5
"It does not require many words to speak the truth."
-- Chief Joseph, NEZ PERCE
The truth shall set you free. This is the truth. When we speak the Truth, we do not need to be defensive. Truth needs no defense. When we speak the Truth, we do not need to attack because Truth cannot be attacked. It is so easy to want to manipulate or to be deceitful or dishonest. My head tells me I can get away with doing these things, after all everybody does it.

My Creator, today let me know Truth. Let me live Truth. Let me risk the Truth. Let me make the Truth sweet. Help me to make my word good. Let Your spirit and intent be added to by words. Let My thoughts be Truth.

The Hollyberry Lady
07-05-2011, 04:43 PM
Oh that's a good one, Greg! ;)


: )

cherokee_greg
07-06-2011, 09:26 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 6



"Silence is the cornerstone of character."





--Charles Alexander Eastman, OHIYESA SANTEE SIOUX



Be still and know. Anyone can verbally attack another. Anyone can be a smart aleck. Anyone can be angry and tell other people things that will hurt them. Anyone can be sarcastic, devaluating and belittling. It takes a Warrior to be silent. Silence is so powerful. Silence can be so loving.


My Creator, if I get into a situation today that needs me to respond with silence, help me to use my silence in a good and sacred way. In my silence, let me be talking to You and You talking to me. Silence is the way of the warrior.

The Hollyberry Lady
07-06-2011, 09:57 AM
Oh I like that one best of all, Greg. Silence is Golden! ;)


: )

cherokee_greg
07-07-2011, 09:04 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 7
"I believe much trouble and blood would be saved if we opened our hearts more."
-- Chief Joseph, NEZ PERCE
We are as sick as our secrets. Our ego takes over control of our lives and when that happens our minds get very sick. Then we hurt people and our minds will always justify our actions. Our minds will give us rationalization and excuses that we are justified in doing what we are doing.

My Creator, Let me live today with an open heart. Let me realize to be vulnerable is a strength, not a weakness. Let me realize the power of an open heart. Let me be available to truth. If I get into trouble, let me hear the whisper of your guidance. Let me make heart decisions and let my head catch up to that decision.

cherokee_greg
07-08-2011, 08:26 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 8
"You are going to learn the most important lesson - that God is the most powerful thing there is."
-- Mathew King, LAKOTA
The Medicine Wheel teaches that there are two worlds - the Seen World and the Unseen World, or the Physical World and the Spiritual World. We need information from both of these worlds in order to live our lives in a harmonious way. The most difficult way is to figure things out by ourselves and leave the Great Spirit out of it. When we do this, we are making decisions with information only from the Physical World. This can be called reliance on self. If we ask the Creator to help us, we then get information from the Unseen World or the Spiritual World. The Spiritual World is where we get our power. When we do this, we are God-reliant. Being God-reliant is the same as being on the Red Road.

Great Spirit, whisper the secrets of the Unseen World in my mind's ear.

cherokee_greg
07-09-2011, 10:23 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 9
"We have to educate ourselves to know who we are. That's what I mean when I say, 'Teach the children.'"
-- Eddie Benton-Banai, OJIBWAY
It is only by knowing ourselves that we can get in touch with our power. It is said, "Tell me what you know about yourself and I'll tell you what you know about God. Tell me what you know about God and I'll tell you what you know about yourself." As we increase knowledge of ourselves, as we choose to grow spiritually, as we clean up our act, then we can teach the children.

My Creator, You have said "Know thyself." Today let me see the wisdom of this Truth. Give me Your insight of myself. I am always walking the talk and most people can see it. Today, help and guide me on the Red Road.

The Hollyberry Lady
07-09-2011, 10:33 AM
Knowing the self can sometimes be the hardest and most difficult thing of all, and sometimes we are our own worst enemy.


Thank you again Greg, for all these beautiful and insightful posts of yours. I enjoy them so much. Very meaningful, good stuff. ;)


: )

cherokee_greg
07-10-2011, 10:36 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 10
"Each soul must meet the morning sun, the new, sweet earth, and the great silence alone."
-- Charles Alexander Eastman, OHIYESA SANTEE SIOUX
Each morning a new sun for a new day arises. Each morning the sweet perfume from the Mother Earth spreads across the land. This combination of sun, earth, smell and quiet is a magic door for me to enter to kneel before the Grandfathers. The sacred time to commune with the Great Spirit.

Oh Great Spirit, I humbly stand before You along with the new sun, the Mother Earth and the smells of the morning. I ask You to direct my thinking today. Let me live in the silence. Teach me Your wisdom, Teach me to love my brothers and sisters. Let me respect the things You have made.

cherokee_greg
07-11-2011, 08:29 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 11
"Do not grieve. Misfortunes will happen to the wisest and best of men. Death will come, always out of season. It is the command of the Great Spirit, and all nations and people must obey. What is past and what cannot be prevented should not be grieved for..."
-- Big Elk, OMAHA Chief
Our earth continues to grow by cycles and seasons: The cycles of growth - spring, summer, fall, winter. The cycles of the human being - baby, youth, adult, elder. It is through these cycles that we will experience the changes. I will not always necessarily agree with these changes, but I need to trust the Grandfathers are in charge. Things will come and things will go. Really, I own nothing, the Creator owns all. Too often I label things as mine. I say this belongs to me, but it really belongs to the Creator. He gives me things to take care of. I need to do the best I can with what I have, with what I know at the time. And when the Creator changes things, I need to let go for His planning is the best.

Oh Great Spirit, today let me do the best I can with what I know, with what I have. Let me experience acceptance of Your will.

cherokee_greg
07-12-2011, 09:30 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 12
"Each man is good in the sight of the Great Spirit."
-- Sitting Bull, TETON SIOUX
Our bodies are both physical and spiritual. At our very center we are spiritual. Our bodies are built around the spiritual. The center is the unseen world. Therefore, we cannot see it with our eyes and we tend to judge the body because we can see it. The body is not who we are. We can see the spiritual if we are spiritual ourselves. We won't see this always with our physical eyes. Usually we will see it with our spiritual eye. We will hear ourselves say, "I know this to be true."

At the center of all human beings is the place of good. That includes myself. At my very core is good. I can find this place by staying free of resentments, fear, dishonesty and self-seeking motives. My Creator, keep me free this day of resentment, selfishness, dishonesty and fear.

cherokee_greg
07-14-2011, 09:50 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 14



"It was good for the skin to touch the earth, and the old people liked to remove their moccasins and walk with bare feet on the sacred earth... The soil was soothing, strengthening, cleansing, and healing."





--Chief Luther Standing Bear, TETON SIOUX



Touching the earth - getting grounded, centered. There is magic in touching the earth and feeling her healing power. This is especially healthy to do during a troubling time when our minds are racing or can't stop thinking or are locked onto fear or resentment. When I need to feel free I can go to the Mother Earth. The Mother Earth is full of life and love. She always gives her powers to those who come to her. The Mother Earth is alive.


Today, my Great Spirit, let me remember to touch the earth. Let me slow down and live just for today. Let me be gentle, patient and kind.

cherokee_greg
07-15-2011, 11:11 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 15
"We are nothing compared to His power, and we feel and know it."
-- Black Hawk, SAUK
Inside of every man and woman is a place of knowing. In this place is the knowing that there is a Great One, the Great Mystery, the Holy One, the Great Spirit. We can deny this all we want but we know what we know. This place of knowing is at the very center of our being. It is gratifying to know that God cannot leave us. It is said we are spiritual beings trying to be human. With this power in our lives, we can accomplish much. We can do many good things for our people.

Oh Great Spirit, I know of Your power. I love the days when I can feel Your presence. Let today be one of those days. Let me walk today in Your beauty.

cherokee_greg
07-16-2011, 09:16 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 16



"Grandfather says...you must not hurt anybody or do harm to anyone. You must not fight. Do right always. It will give you satisfaction in life."





--Wovoka, PAIUTE



The question one should ask themselves is: Do you want to be right or do you want to be happy? If you want to be right, this is a request from your ego. If you want to be happy then this is of the Great Spirit. The only meaning anything has is the meaning we give it. Maybe we should develop a philosophy of: Today is the last day of the rest of my life. If this were true, how easy it would be to let things go - how easy it would be to forgive.


Oh Great Spirit, let me live today as if it was my last. Let me express Your joy and be happy today. Let me see the joy and honor of living on the Red Road.

cherokee_greg
07-17-2011, 09:30 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 17



"My friends, how desperately do we need to be loved and to love."





--Chief Dan George, SKOKOMISH



Oh my great Creator: Help me this day to love myself. I can't give away anything that I don't have myself. If I am to love others, then I must love myself. If I am to forgive others, then I am to forgive myself. If I am to accept others as they are, then I need to accept myself as I am. If I am to not judge others, then I need to lighten up on myself. Let me experience this power of love...


My Creator, today I will love myself so I can love my neighbor. I will look at each person today and see Your light within them. If I do this, I will hold my brothers and sisters without guilt.

cherokee_greg
07-18-2011, 11:41 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 18
"Our fathers gave us many laws which they had learned from their fathers. These laws were good."
-- Chief Joseph, NEZ PERCE
The Creator gives us many laws to live by. These are different than the laws of man. The laws of the Creator are designed for us to live in harmony and balance with ourselves and each other. These laws are about having freedom and happiness. Our Elders teach us these laws. Laws about how to treat each other, laws about how to treat and respect our Mother Earth, laws about the environment.

Oh Great Spirit, teach me the laws of the unseen world. Today I pray You open my eyes so I can better see the Red Road

cherokee_greg
07-19-2011, 02:45 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 19
"We were taught to believe that the Great Spirit sees and hears everything, and that He never forgets, that hereafter He will give every man a spirit-home according to his deserts: If he has been a good man, he will have a good home; if he has been a bad man, he will have a bad home."
-- Chief Joseph, NEZ PERCE
I cannot hide my true spirit and intent from the Creator. He created a system of justice. This system of justice says we will get back whatever we plant. If we plant good then good returns - if we plant bad, then we will suffer the consequences. Whatever we think about another person, the same things are thought about us. Whatever we send out is sent back. Man cannot alter this system of justice. It doesn't matter what we say or do. What really matters is what we really, really did.

Oh Great Spirit, guide me today to do good, to have good thoughts. Let me remember the things I do are to honor Your way of life.

cherokee_greg
07-20-2011, 10:44 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 20



"When you begin a great work you can't expect to finish it all at once; therefore, you and your brothers press on and let nothing discourage you until you have entirely finished what you have begun."





--Teedyuschung, DELAWARE



All things have their seasons. All thoughts are real. We must think to cause action and each action creates results. Big visions require many thoughts. It takes a series of thoughts to create a series of actions. A series of actions creates a series of results. These results are what makes vision become real. If we are here to serve the Creator then we can expect to be accomplishing big visions. How do we do this? One step at a time.


Let me focus on what needs to be done today. Give me clear thoughts to accomplish the results that you, my Creator, would have me accomplish.

cherokee_greg
07-21-2011, 08:43 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 21
"You must speak straight so that your words may go as sunlight into our hearts."
-- Cochise "Like Ironweed" CHIRICAHUA APACHE
Come into my heart this morning. Allow me this day to live in the now. Help me to see all the beauty You have created in all things. Let me know myself. Today, as I make mistakes, let me see them as lessons. Guide me. When I see others make mistakes, let me honor them for where they are. Let me realize that they are Your children and only You, my Grandfather, knows what is really going on. When my lips move, let the words be Your words.

Allow me to have the courage to speak Your truth.

cherokee_greg
07-22-2011, 02:13 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 22
In this universe, all activities, events, and entities are related. Indians believe that everything in the universe has value and instructs us in some aspect of life. Everything is alive and is making choices that determine the future, so the world is constantly creating itself… With the wisdom and time for reflection that old age provides, we may discover unsuspected relationships.
-- -Vine Deloria, Jr, STANDING ROCK SIOUX
We are all connected. This is what the Elders have told us for a long time. If we are connected to all things, then whenever we harm anything, it causes harm to ourselves. If we destroy the air, then we will be affected by what we breathe in. If we poison the Earth, we poison ourselves. We must respect our Mother Earth and She will respect us in return. We must open our eyes and obey the spiritual laws that govern the Earth and ourselves.

Grandfather, today allow me to honor and respect the things You have made. Let me see the beauty of all things.

cherokee_greg
07-23-2011, 11:14 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 23



"...the greatest strength is in gentleness."





--Leon Shenandoah, ONONDAGA



Our Elders have taught us many lessons about becoming a Warrior and how to think and act like one. We have been told about the power of gentleness. We have been told about the power of the stillness. Physical power is about effort. Mental power is the opposite. It's about being effortless or less any effort. Gentleness is one of the greatest attributes of the Warrior and one of the greatest mental powers. It takes a lot of love to be gentle. Gentleness is not an ego word. Gentleness is the weapon of the Great Spirit.


My Creator, today I will be gentle with myself and with others. I will listen to the whisper of my heart and learn the power of being gentle.

nannerfunboi
07-23-2011, 07:18 PM
much thanks for your thoughts man!!
i especially appreciate the last 2 posts..
maybe just rings more resonance for me lately..? :)
much thanks man...

cherokee_greg
07-24-2011, 10:51 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 24
"Life is like a path...and we all have to walk the path... As we walk... we'll find experiences like little scraps of paper in front of us along the way. We must pick up those pieces of scrap paper and put them in our pocket... Then, one day, we will have enough scraps of papers to put together and see what they say... Read the information and take it to heart."
-- Uncle Frank Davis (quoting his mother), PAWNEE
The Creator designed us to learn by trial and error. The path of life we walk is very wide. Everything on the path is sacred - what we do right is sacred - but our mistakes are also sacred. This is the Creator's way of teaching spiritual people. To criticize ourselves when we make mistakes is not part of the spiritual path. To criticize mistakes is not the Indian way. To learn from our mistakes is the Indian way. The definition of a spiritual person is someone who makes 30-50 mistakes each day and talks to the Creator after each one to see what to do next time. This is the way of the Warrior.

Today let me see my mistakes as a positive process. Let me learn the aha's of life... Awaken my awareness so I can see the great learning that You, my Creator, have designed for my life.

cherokee_greg
07-25-2011, 09:32 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 25



"People need to wake up. They can't hear God's voice if they're asleep."





--Vernon Cooper, LUMBEE



Black Elk, a Sioux, talks about the hoop of many hoops. He says that above the people is a hoop, a conscience, the total belief of the people. If the hoop is sick, meaning dysfunctional, co-dependent, a lot of alcoholism, family abuse, violence, racism and sexual abuse, the people can get used to this and think this is normal. In other words, the people are asleep. If we have left the spiritual way of life, the people are asleep. If we are giving our power to another entity, the people are asleep. In most tribes, there are Coyote Clans. The job of the Coyote Clan people is to wake the people up. They need to become a nuisance and irritate the people. We must return to the spiritual walk.


Oh Great Spirit, keep me awake today. Let me hear the voices of our ancestors...let me hear the voices of the Grandfathers. Because everybody is doing it doesn't make things right. Let me hear the truth today and become a coyote for the people. Give me the courage to be willing to be different. Let me walk straight on the Red Road.

cherokee_greg
07-25-2011, 09:42 AM
Man this one really hit home with me. Last week I been having some work done in the house I bought some new carpet and was having it layed down. When they pulled up the carpet in the family room there was this really nice hardwood floor under the carpet. Before they pulled it up me and my brother have been talking about what was under that carpet I told him if I remember right the floor was in bad shape. Well when we saw that nice hardwood floor he looked at me and said it must of been that gallon of wine you use to drink I responded by saying no it must have been the two gallons of wine I use to drink. I was asleep in those days.Any ways I know what me and my brother are going to be doing. In the hall way and the three bedrooms were going to be refinishing hardwood floors.Today im not asleep.

cherokee_greg
07-26-2011, 07:56 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 26



"These are our times and our responsibilities. Every human being has a sacred duty to protect the welfare of our Mother Earth, from whom all life comes. In order to do this, we must recognize the enemy - the one within us. We must begin with ourselves..."





--Leon Shenandoah, ONONDAGA



The outside is merely a reflection of our insides. My mind is designed to tell me that I'm not crazy for thinking what I am thinking. Even if I have angry thought, my mind is giving me excuses and reasons why it is OK to think what I'm thinking. I need to be knowledgeable about the laws of harmony and balance. I cannot twist the laws to serve me, but I can adjust my life to serve the laws. This is the law - I am here to serve the Earth. The Earth is not here for me to misuse and abuse.


Oh Great Spirit, allow me the insight and knowledge of how to live in harmony and balance with my surroundings. Grant me change from within.

cherokee_greg
07-27-2011, 04:20 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 27
"Let us put our minds together as one."
-- Irving Powless, Sr., ONONDAGA
If we sat in a circle and put an object in the center of the circle and we all described what we saw, everyone would see different points of view from each other. Some would even see opposites because they would be sitting on opposite sides of the circle. In other words, you don't have to see what I see for you to be right. In fact, everyone in the circle is right based on their own point of view. If we are willing to listen to everyone's point of view, then we can get a more accurate description of the object in the center. This is one way to put our minds together. When we get the clarity from each other, we should give thanks and be grateful to each other.

Grandfathers from the four directions, guide me today with Your wisdom from the east, from the south, from the west and from the north.

cherokee_greg
07-28-2011, 08:46 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 28
"A good heart and a good mind - those are what you need to be a chief."
-- Louis Farmer, ONONDAGA
The combination of heart and mind is very powerful. The Medicine Wheel teaches that two worlds exist - the seen and the unseen. The seen world is the physical and the unseen is the spiritual world. Both of the worlds are necessary to discover true reality. The seen world is easiest seen by the male side. The unseen is easiest seen by the female side. The heart is the unseen and the mind is the seen. Blessed is the leader or person who has developed the heart and the mind. Truly, the person is of tremendous value to the Creator and the people.

My Great Spirit, help me this day to develop both my female side and my male side. Let me know all the feelings of each, let me develop and grow my intuition and my mind. Let my development only serve You.

cherokee_greg
07-29-2011, 12:46 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 29
"When we want to talk to Him we burn tobacco and it takes our prayers all the way up to the Sky World."
-- Louis Farmer, ONONDAGA
Our herbs and our medicines are all here for the purpose of serving. Offering tobacco as a gift to the Creator is proper use of our medicine. In this way, we are able to communicate from the physical world to the spiritual world. Sometimes we have a hard time coming up with the right words when we pray, especially if we are really mixed up. The tobacco and the sage will take the intent to the spirit world. The meaning behind the words are more important the the words. The Creator always knows our intent. The tobacco helps us get to the Sky World.

Today, my Creator, I offer You this tobacco. I want to thank You for being in my life. I want to tell You how much I appreciate the honor of being here to serve You. Tell me this morning what I can do for You. You are the reason I live.

cherokee_greg
07-30-2011, 01:32 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 30



"You want to know who's a real medicine man? He's the one who doesn't say 'I'm a medicine man.' He doesn't ask you to come to him. You've got to go and ask him. And you'll find he's always there among his own people."





--Louis Farmer, ONONDAGA



The Medicine Man is a role model of what it is like to live in harmony and balance with the Creator. It takes a long time, a lot of sacrifice and discipline to become a Medicine Man. A Medicine Man is humble and never crass about anything. He knows he lives to do the will of the Great Spirit. He knows he is to help the people. He lives very low key - the more low key he lives, the more people seek him out - and such is life. The more one serves the people and is quiet about it, the more he is sought out. The quieter he is, the more powerful is his medicine.


Great Spirit, allow me this day to be humble. Allow me this day not to seek attention, but to live quietly and keep my focus and attention on serving You.

cherokee_greg
07-31-2011, 10:23 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day July 31



Look behind you. See your sons and your daughters. They are your future. Look farther and see your sons' and your daughters' children and their children's children even unto the Seventh Generation. That's the way we were taught. Think about it: you yourself are a Seventh Generation."





--Leon Shenandoah, ONONDAGA



The Creator designed us with a free will. That means we function from choices and consequences. It is important that we practice thinking about consequences before we make decisions about choices. Every choice I make is like setting up dominos one after the other that produce consequences. Not just for me but also for my children and for the children that are unborn. My choices and decision today will have consequences for seven generations. For example, if I work on my own spiritual development and I walk the Red Road, the odds are that my children will. They will marry and their children will follow the Red Road and so will my grandchildren even up to the seventh generation. This will happen because of the choices and decisions that I make today.


Great Spirit, grant that the choices and decisions that I make today will honor Your laws and values. May I live in peace today that will ripple into the seventh generation.

cherokee_greg
08-01-2011, 10:38 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 1
"Everyone has to find the right path. You can't see it so it's hard to find. No one can show you. Each person has to find the path by himself."
-- Charlie Knight, UTE
There are certain times in our lives when a voice whispers to us. The voice doesn't always talk. Usually we hear it best when we are sick and tired of being sick and tired. Inside every person is the knowledge that a Supreme Being exists. Sometimes a restlessness occurs and it makes me feel I need to be doing something or I need to be going somewhere or maybe I start wondering who am I? Often when this happens, I feel lost. Inside of everyone is the natural, built-in desire to be walking the Red Road, or to be seeking a relationship with the Creator. No one can force us to make this journey. We must make this journey because we want to. This journey is not on the outside. The path is inside of ourselves. It is inside that we must begin our search.

Oh Great Spirit, help me this day to look within myself. If trouble arises, let me realize that it's not what is going on but how I am looking at what is going on. Give me Your power this day to conduct myself according to Your way of life.

cherokee_greg
08-02-2011, 10:29 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 2
"When you get older and you are ready, your ancestors will show up to guide you."
-- Joe Coyhis, STOCKBRIDGE-MUNSEE
Many of us, when we are young, spend a portion of our lives in learning. Unfortunately, some of us spend this time learning the hard way. When we are young we sometimes think we know everything. Sometimes we do foolish things. As we get a little older, we realize we don't know anything. This is when we become teachable. There is a saying that goes, when the student is ready, the teacher appears. We usually aren't teachable unless we are ready. The ancestors are waiting and willing to help. When we are ready, many beautiful teachers start to come into our lives. Then we really start to grow and mature. We are ready for the spiritual lesson.

Creator, help me to become ready and teachable.

cherokee_greg
08-03-2011, 10:50 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day August 3



"Always remember you are Indian - do things to make your people proud."





--Joe Coyhis, STOCKBRIDGE-MUNSEE



All our choices and decisions will reflect on our people. We need to assume the accountability of honoring people. We must remember to conduct ourselves in a sacred way. Sometimes this is hard. But we must remember we have the assistance of the Spirit World, and we have the principles and values by which we should live, written in our hearts. The Creator will help us develop into a strong people if we just learn to depend upon Him.


Great Spirit, lead me on the path of the Red Road.

cherokee_greg
08-04-2011, 10:19 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day August 4



"Telling about our lives is important for those who come after as, for those who will see our experience as part of their own historical struggle."





--Linda Hogan, CHICKASAW



How important it is for us to support one another? How important it is for us to know our culture and to share our experiences with one another? How powerful it is to be authentic? How important it is to hold no secrets? I am as sick as my secrets.


Grandfather, allow me today to be willing to share with my brother and sister. Let my eyes see You in their eyes. Let me not judge them but only love them. Grandfather, help me, for I am Your humble servant.

cherokee_greg
08-05-2011, 09:21 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day August 5



"It is a paradox in the contemporary world that in our desire for peace we must willingly give ourselves to struggle."





--Linda Hogan, CHICKASAW



The Grandfathers have taught us about sacrifice. We have been taught to pray for the people in a pitiful way. Struggle and conflict is neither good nor bad, it just is. Everything that grows experiences conflict. When the deer is born it is through conflict. When the seed first grows, it is through conflict. Conflict precedes clarity. Everything has the seasons of growth. Recognize - acknowledge - forgive and change. All of these things are done through conflict.


Great Spirit, give me the courage today to see that struggle and conflict are here to teach me lessons that are a gift from you.

cherokee_greg
08-06-2011, 10:45 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day August 6



"We have to have one mind for the Four Directions. Until we reach that one mind, we cannot be filled with understanding.... The Creator will not answer until you have just one mind, just like if you have one person."





--Grandfather William Commanda, ALGONQUIN



The Elders have taught us to balance our lives emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. If I am out of control emotionally, I get angry, doubtful or erratic, I am out of balance. If I trigger bad mental pictures of my brothers and sisters, I am out of balance. If I get too hungry, angry, lonely, or tired, I am out of balance physically. If I don't pray and talk to the Creator daily, I am out of balance spiritually. To be centered, I must be in balance. The Creator talks to me in the quiet and still place. So if I get angry, what I should do first is to pause and get still so I can hear the guidance of the Grandfathers.


Oh Great Spirit whose voice I hear in the winds, protect and keep me safe today - hear my prayers

cherokee_greg
08-07-2011, 10:28 AM
I stood on the edge of the cliff
and watched the magic below me
the proud with feathers
fluffed and preened
plumes of bright colors waving in the breeze
face paint gleaming in the firelight
eyes dark as a ravens feathers
the drums began~
the dance of feet softly beating into the earth
the silence of the night struck with thunder
as the beat echoed within the canyon walls
the shiver and shaking of the snake tails
shattered the silence
the somber of spirit
as prayers rose into the heavens
withering like an eagle spirit from dying embers

"Oh Father"
"Gather us within your arms
hold us steady with your hands
know the pain and suffering within us
and see us through with courage
for you are the everlasting spirit and we
are the sons and daughters of your soul
bless us with the eyes of the hawk
strengthen us with the heart of the bear
give us the wisdom of the wolf
and the courage of all eagles
let us see your light before us
as we flow with the winding streams
enrich our lives with harvest
and our hearts with love
for we are the proud and brave of this land"

sv-hi:-ye (evening) Prayer

cherokee_greg
08-07-2011, 10:30 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day August 7



"Everything I know I learned by listening and watching."





--Vernon Cooper, LUMBEE



Sometimes my mind is talking so fast about so many different things that I can't slow it down. All day long I am judging and making assumptions about everything.


Great Spirit, help me this day to slow down. Help me to listen - quietly. Help me to watch carefully. Help me to listen to my inner voice. Let me listen and watch only the thing You would have me observe. Guide my eyes and my ears to be focused on You. Grandfather, love me today and teach me to be quiet.

cherokee_greg
08-08-2011, 09:08 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day August 8



"The Creator told everyone of us in our tribal beginnings to look after our ceremonies, and each other."





--Barney Bush, SHAWNEE



Our ceremonies are important and each has a purpose. They teach us about the Creator and about each other. The ceremonies teach us to be humble and teach us to pray. They teach us to look inside ourselves. We should remember to pray each morning. Ask the Creator to guide our thinking. Think only good thoughts. Think good thoughts about our relatives and about our brothers and sisters. Pray for our children in ceremony. Give thanks to the Great Mystery of life. All life is sacred. Pray in a sacred way.


Oh Great Spirit, I come to You this morning in ceremony. I come to this sacred place to talk to You. I thank You for Your guidance and protection. Give me Your eyes today so I may see the beauty in all things.

cherokee_greg
08-09-2011, 11:17 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 9
"Praying to seek a vision, to seek truth is always right. Truth builds upon itself - as the true mark of a warrior who conducts himself/herself accordingly - so that its beauty may shine in the faces of our children."
-- Barney Bush, SHAWNEE
We move toward and become like that which we think about. What we think about creates our vision. If our thoughts are wise and good, then our vision becomes strong and truthful. If our thoughts are junk, then our vision becomes contaminated. It's important to be aware of what we are thinking about. As I live my vision, my children watch and live their lives the same way. We need to live the walk of the Warrior. We need to walk in beauty and respect.

Oh Great Spirit, give me a vision for today. Let me see truth. Let me walk in beauty. Let my heart guide me in truth. The law says the truth shall set you free. Let me be free today.

cherokee_greg
08-10-2011, 12:19 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 10
"Nature is the storehouse of potential life of future generations and is sacred."
-- Audrey Shenandoah, ONONDAGA
We need to honor and respect our Mother Earth. She is the source of all life. The sun shines life to the earth, then the earth produces life in all forms and in a balanced way. Everything is here to serve everything else. If we interrupt the flow in any way, we leave nothing for the future generations. Before every decision is made, we should ask, and answer, a final question; "If we do this, what will be the effects on the seventh generation? What will we cause our children to live with?" We need to have respect and love for all things and for all people. We need to do this for ourselves and for all the children still unborn.

My Creator, let me look at nature today and let me have the highest respect for all the things I see. All the two legged, the four legged, the winged ones, the plants, the water, the air, the Mother Earth. Let me have respect for myself.

cherokee_greg
08-11-2011, 06:03 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 11
"May there be peace when we meet."
-- Audrey Shenandoah, ONONDAGA
The Elders tell us the greatest gift we can seek is peace of mind; to walk in balance, to respect all things. For us to do this, we must have peace within ourselves and peace within ourselves cannot come unless we are walking the path the Creator would have us walk. Sometimes the tests on this path are difficult, but we know that each test makes us stronger.

Oh Great Spirit, I ask You to whisper Your wisdom in my heart. You are the only one who knows the secret to peaceful living and the mystery of harmony. Teach me of Your peace, understanding and balance, and guide me onto your good path.

cherokee_greg
08-12-2011, 12:45 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 12
"With one mind we address our acknowledgement, respect, and gratefulness to the sacred Cycle of Life. We, as humans, must remember to be humble and acknowledge the gifts we use so freely in our daily lives."
-- Audrey Shenandoah, ONONDAGA
The sacred Cycle of life - the baby, the youth, the adult, the Elder. Let us respect all directions, the four directions of the Grandfathers; let us respect their power. Let us remember we belong to the earth, the earth does not belong to us. Help us to be respectful to all the gifts You have given us.

Oh Great Spirit, help me this day to be humble. Let me not attack anything in deed or in my thoughts. Let my thoughts focus on the beauty You have created in all things.

cherokee_greg
08-13-2011, 07:48 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 13
"A bit of sunshine, a drop of rain, a puff of life from the Great Spirit as He gently breathed upon that spot, created the Native Americans. They were well formed and agile, copper colored and proud.
-- Harriet Starleaf Gumbs, SHINNECOCK
We are made in the image of the Great Spirit. A long time ago He breathed life into our ancestors. He made the Indian strong. He created a Warrior. Our ancestors created more warriors. We have been tested throughout the seasons and we are still here, stronger than ever. It is good to be Indian. We are proud of ourselves and our ancestors. Mostly we are proud the Great Spirit has never forsaken us, and continues to guide us.

My Creator, let me live my life today in a way that would make my ancestors proud. Let me remember each month that I am here to serve You. Today let me conduct my life in a way that also would make You proud.

cherokee_greg
08-14-2011, 11:04 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 14
"It's time Indians tell the world what we know... about nature and about God. So I'm going to tell you what I know and who I am. You guys better listen. You have a lot to learn.
-- Mathew King, LAKOTA
A long time ago the Creator came to Turtle Island and said to the Red People - "You will be the keepers of the Mother Earth. Among you I will give the wisdom about nature, about the interconnectedness of all things, about balance and about living in harmony. You Red People will see the secrets of nature. You will live in hardship and the blessing of this is you will stay close to the Creator. The day will come when you will need to share the secrets with the other people of the earth because they will stray from their spiritual ways. The time to start sharing is today."

Oh Great Spirit, today I am ready for You to use me as a channel of Your peace. Let my walk today be visible so the people will say "There goes a Man of God." I want to know what He knows. If they ask, I will tell them to go out into the wilderness and pray for You to guide them.

cherokee_greg
08-15-2011, 07:24 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 15
"There are many people who could claim and learn from their Indian ancestry, but because of the fear their parents and grandparents knew, because of past and present prejudice against Indian people, that part of their heritage is clouded or denied."
-- Joseph Bruchac, ABENAKI
There were many injustices done to Native people. Sometimes I wonder; why am I connected to the past injustices done to Indian people? Why am I so angry about the past? The Elders say our ancestors are alive within each of us. Therefore, I may experience anger and resentment inside of me because of the injustice done to them. The way I get rid of these past feelings is to forgive. It may be necessary to even learn to forgive the unforgivable.

Great Spirit, teach me the path of forgiveness; teach me the courage to forgive; teach me to let go. Give to me a forgiving heart.

cherokee_greg
08-17-2011, 09:50 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 17
"If a child hasn't been given spiritual values within the family setting, they have no familiarity with the values that are necessary for the just and peaceful functioning in society."
-- Eunice Baumann-Nelson, Ph.D, PENOBSCOT
When we are born, we start with a beautiful empty mind ready to be given our beliefs, attitudes, habits and expectations. Most of our true learning comes from watching the actions of others. As we watch our family or relatives, whatever their actions and values are, so will be the children's values and acts. If we see our families living a just and peaceful way of life, so then will the children. If we see our family shouting, arguing, and hateful, so will it be for the children. The cycle of life - baby, youth, adult and Elder is all connected. If the older ones have good values, it will be connected to the children.

Oh my Creator, if there are values I have missed, it is not too late. I can get them from You. Teach me today Your spiritual values. Respect, trust, giving, honesty, wisdom - teach me these.

nannerfunboi
08-17-2011, 10:44 AM
cherokeegreg.. your last thought is so true..
i have mentored in schools for yrs.. the kids that have some kind
of "spiritual" coaching at home..whatever it is..jewish,buddist,christian,muslim,
non traditional kids have a sense of commonality to
society.. and for me..i think it makes a better world..where
we are tolerant,patient,loving,encouraging..
hope you keep posting your meditation for the day!!!
thanks man...
:woohoonaner:

oakshadows
08-17-2011, 05:38 PM
Thanks for the last and all of the other posts. It is true that family life will style the offspring and the outcome is very easy to see among the population of this country. The bad part is that the ones without parental guidence pressure others into their miserable way of life. May your God and mine help us change this.

cherokee_greg
08-18-2011, 10:42 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 18
"You have to have confidence in your own ability to be able to go it alone, to go against what the rest of the culture is doing."
-- Eunice Baumann-Nelson, Ph.D., PENOBSCOT
God, this is hard. Today, allow me to be a Warrior. Let me be strong. Let Your voice be clear to me. Let me hear Your guidance. My goal today is to serve You, to develop myself to be the kind of Indian person that You would have me be. To Walk the Red Road must sometimes be walked alone.

Great Spirit, let me walk the Red Road today with the confidence that You are with me. If I fall, I will quickly ask You to help me know what I should do next.

cherokee_greg
08-18-2011, 10:57 AM
Todays really hit home with me. It gave me some peace. The last few days I found out some news that has been really been worring me down which I donot need. I have to remember im not walking alone.

cherokee_greg
08-19-2011, 10:34 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 19
"If we keep everything in balance, we are in harmony with ourselves and are at peace."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
As within, as without, our present thought determines our future. If we want peace outside ourselves, we must first have peace inside ourselves. It's not what is going on but how we are looking at what is going on. We need to keep ourselves in balance. We must be careful to not get too hungry, angry, lonely. or tired. We must know the times - time to work, time to rest, time to play, time to sleep, time to pray, time to lighten up, time to laugh, time to eat, time to exercise. There is a saying "The honor of one is the honor of all." This means when we work with all, we need to also work on one. We need to take care of ourselves. You cannot give away what you don't have.

Great Spirit, let me walk in balance today. Remove from me resentment, self pity, and self seeking motives. Let me love myself so I can love my neighbors.

nannerfunboi
08-20-2011, 09:32 PM
greg..u must know what some of us need to read and think on dude..
much thanks..
was just having this conversation today with some supervisors..
work is nuts..life..are we going into recession/depression..bla..bla
so i bring up buddist thinking on seeking the center.. balance..so were all
talking about it..
great thoughts man..truely!!
ya know greg.. karma we send out..comes back too..:)
u must have a glow about u... :)
thanks greg !!!

nannerfunboi
08-20-2011, 09:34 PM
i know greg with all of us..our lives..stuff that comes up..and all
there are so many here that are grateful for your thoughts..you
perspective on life..and dude.. as for me..and i know many others..
we are better for you!!!
:goteam:

cherokee_greg
08-20-2011, 11:24 PM
i know greg with all of us..our lives..stuff that comes up..and all
there are so many here that are grateful for your thoughts..you
perspective on life..and dude.. as for me..and i know many others..
we are better for you!!!
:goteam:

I really thank you for your great words. I been really down lately over some news I received. Im trying to get through it. I beleve I will. I cant give up. I almost stoped posting these. I thought maybe people were getting tired of them. I know for the last few days creator has been really giving these to me for my own strength. Thank you so much:03:

cherokee_greg
08-20-2011, 11:24 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 20
"...remember and think about the closeness of Wanka-Tanka. If they live in this wisdom, it will give them endless strength and hope."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
The value of staying close to the Creator is the immediate help we have available to us whenever we need it. I can listen to the whisper of my heart for this is the place He communicates with me. Staying close helps me remember that we are here to serve Him and to help other people. The Grandfathers are my direct access to wisdom. He who has wisdom has everything. If we have wisdom, then we will see our lives become more effective in the areas of jobs, relationships, family, friends, and finances.

My Creator, today grant me the wisdom to seek Your wisdom. Help me to Walk of the Red Road.

cherokee_greg
08-21-2011, 09:56 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 21
"The greater the faith, the greater the result."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
The Creator designed us to act on faith. We are able to do this by holding firm to our beliefs. If we believe something and if we don't want the belief to change, we need to add the power of the Great Spirit to this belief. We must always have the spiritual added to our beliefs. If we don't add the Spirit, then we may very well change our minds the first time we are tested. Each time we are tested and we don't change our minds, we get stronger. The wind may blow on the red willow trees bending them and causing the roots to grow deeper. The more the wind bends the tree, the bigger, stronger, and deeper the roots grow. We should be happy that we are tested. It's the Creator's way of making us have greater faith for greater results.

Great Mystery, Grandfather, I know if I am tested today that I can count on You to give me the courage to get to the other side. On the other side of every test is the reward of strength. Make me strong.

cherokee_greg
08-22-2011, 11:21 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 22

"When life is too good, we think too highly of ourselves and our blessings. Then we decide we are the wisest and the favored ones, and we don't think we need Wakan-Tanka and the Helpers anymore."

-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA

It is sometimes easy to get off track when times are good. We start to take the credit and start to think we are in control. We start to think we are smart. Then we quit praying or pray only with lip service. We say the words but don't mean them. Sometimes our head is our greatest enemy. We start acting like a foolish child. We must develop the discipline to be humble during the good times. We need to remember how honorable it is each day to come into the presence of the Creator. How happy we should be to talk to the Grandfathers, to have the choice to start each day on the Sacred Spot - our place of communion with the Great Spirit.

Oh Great Spirit, first let me thank You for the honor of talking to You today. To have the insight of Your love, that only You can love me when I don't deserve to be loved. Let me be reminded to talk to You all day long.

cherokee_greg
08-23-2011, 11:32 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 23
"They also learned, and perhaps this was the most important thing, how to look at things through the eyes of the Higher Powers."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
Our eyes can only see our beliefs. Our beliefs cause us to make assumptions, draw conclusions, and cause confusion. Our five senses are very limiting. The Creator has a way of allowing us to see or know in the spiritual world. This is called the Sixth Sense. The Sixth Sense is like a radar system; our personal radar system. It will help us "see" opportunities and help us avoid disaster. This Sixth Sense is controlled by God. We must learn to listen to it. We must learn to trust it. We must learn to act on it even if our head says differently. We must learn to look at things through the eyes of God.

My Creator, guide me today. If my eyes cause confusion, let me close them and see through Your eyes. If my ears hear confusion, let me listen to my heart. Let me let You guide me.

Bradford
08-23-2011, 07:57 PM
I just stumbled upon this thread for the first time. I will go back and read each post in it's entirety, but the ones that I have read are full of wisdom, some learned and some passed down.

Greg sorry to hear that you are experiencing troubling times. A wise man once told me when I was going through a trying time that nothing is half as bad as it first seems. Once you have some time and perspective on your situation you will see the best path to move ahead. Don't let things overwhelm you.

Thank you for this thread.

cherokee_greg
08-23-2011, 08:22 PM
Im happy you like the thread. It seems like my whole life has been tough. I will get through this one too. I sometimes donot see how but I always do. Im in between chemo treatments now so im getting some things done In one of my bedrooms that I used for a overflow junk room. I almost have it all organized. I thought I might of had a touch of hoarding LOL no it was not that bad. I cant beleve some of the stuff I save. Thanks again for your words. Take care



I just stumbled upon this thread for the first time. I will go back and read each post in it's entirety, but the ones that I have read are full of wisdom, some learned and some passed down.

Greg sorry to hear that you are experiencing troubling times. A wise man once told me when I was going through a trying time that nothing is half as bad as it first seems. Once you have some time and perspective on your situation you will see the best path to move ahead. Don't let things overwhelm you.

Thank you for this thread.

cherokee_greg
08-24-2011, 10:30 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 24
"The mind's eye changes the way we judge things."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
"What you see is what you get." Our head has inside it a movie projector that projects out from our foreheads and shines on a screen a picture of our true thoughts. This is our reality. We can only see what we project (our beliefs). If we believe someone is a jerk, every time we see them we reflect our beliefs about what we think about that person and that is all we can see. Even if someone tells us this person is a kind, loving, caring, intelligent individual, we wouldn't be able to see it. If we change our belief about them, that person will change and so will our judgment about that person.

My Creator, let me realize the power of choice. Let me see the advantages of changing my beliefs. Today, if I am judging my brother, let me change my beliefs to acceptance. If my thoughts are of anger, let me change them to love. Let my eyes only see you in everything and every person.

cherokee_greg
08-25-2011, 10:43 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 25
"God is making use of you - you should be grateful He's found a use for you."
-- Mathew King, LAKOTA
The Creator can only create through human beings. Each human being has a purpose given to us by the Creator. We are on this earth to fulfill this purpose. Our only work is to make ourselves ready, to become a channel, to perform for the Creator. We prepare ourselves by prayer. We prepare ourselves by becoming unselfish. We prepare ourselves by seeking and choosing to walk on a spiritual path. Each morning we look to the east and we say an honor prayer to the Creator. We offer our gifts: tobacco and corn. We ask him to help us do His will for today. In this simple way, we still fulfill our purpose. It should be an honor to serve the Creator.

Great Spirit, today I am ready to serve You.

cherokee_greg
08-26-2011, 09:22 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 26
"Those who live for one another learn that love is the bond of perfect unity."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
To serve each other, to respect each other, to trust each other, to honor each other, to love each other, to cooperate with each other, to care for each other, to forgive one another, to focus on peoples' good, to laugh with one another, to learn from one another, to pray for each other; these are all acts of love. These values and actions will connect us to one another in the Unseen World. Nature is a good example of how we should get along with one another. Watch nature. She is our teacher. Nature lives to give to one another. The insects give to the birds, who give to the four legged, who give to the two legged. The Creator made all things perfect.

Oh Great Spirit, let me serve the people today. Let me see that it is better to give than it is to receive. Be with me today.

The Hollyberry Lady
08-26-2011, 10:20 AM
Oh no please don't stop posting them, Greg! :waving:


I've just been busy, but never tired of these wonderful posts of yours. They're like food for the spirit and I always get so much out of them.


: )

cherokee_greg
08-27-2011, 11:33 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 27
"We begin by letting the Powers know that we are willing to be their servants to others."
-- Fools Crow, LAKOTA
There are certain prayers or actions we can take that will call the Powers. The Powers can only work through the people. The Powers are always waiting to express themselves through people that are ready. Every person born is born with a purpose. They have a song to sing. They have a mission to accomplish. Every true purpose will always be about serving the Creator and helping others. When we let the Powers know that we are ready to serve the people, the Powers get excited because they can now do things to help the people and make things better for them. The decision is powerful because it turns an idea into action.

Great Spirit, the greatest joy or feeling that I have ever experienced is when you are using me to help the people, the feeling of giving, the feeling of being your channel. Today, let me have that feeling of giving. Use me as You will.

cherokee_greg
08-28-2011, 09:59 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 28
"With prayer and good intentions, we make our lives sacred and come into balance."
-- Don Jose Matsua, HUICHOL SIERRA MADRE MEXICO
Only through prayer can we make spiritual changes that are permanent. You have told us that all life is sacred. Today I intend to serve you, my Creator. Allow me to overcome temptation, and if one comes along, let me see the lessons that will give balance. You have told us that all life is sacred. Let me see today with a sacred eye. Let me see beauty in all things.

My Creator, let me know what You would have me be today. Let my intentions be honest, respectful, humble, and loving.

oakshadows
08-28-2011, 02:35 PM
thanks, always refreshing to the heart and soul.

cherokee_greg
08-29-2011, 10:39 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 29
"The devastated earth, the air, water, the extinct species of mankind, animalkind, and plantkind, the drugs, suicides, family separations - these are all the result of false ceremonies."
-- Barney Bush, SHAWNEE
All life is a ceremony. Every act is a ceremony creating a result in our lives. Every ceremony we do always brings results to our lives. If we do bad medicine to others, we do bad medicine to ourselves. If we keep on doing bad ceremonies, we will eventually destroy ourselves. Any time we live our lives out of harmony, we are doing bad ceremonies. Any time we treat anything with disrespect whether it is another human being or a plant or an animal, we are performing bad ceremonies. These ceremonies not only have an effect on ourselves but will simultaneously affect everything. We need to use our power well, only do good ceremonies.

My Creator, teach me only good ceremonies. Teach me ceremonies that accomplish good for all the people. Good ceremonies cause good results. Teach me ceremonies that are helpful.

cherokee_greg
08-30-2011, 09:33 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 30
"I started drinking more seriously, seeking refuge, seeking death actually, from a world that was feeling more and more unnatural to me. Following a painful accident related to drinking, I finally realized that I must decide whether I want to follow my grandparents or truly take up this life. Circumstances that followed led me to choose life."
-- Barney Bush, SHAWNEE
My life is run by choices and decisions. Every choice I make today will carry with it the consequences of that choice. Every decision I make today will carry with it the consequences of that decision. The question I will ask myself today is, "Do I want to be happy or do I want to be right?" Which ever one I choose will have a lot to do with the consequences I will experience today. If today was the last day of my life, what choices and what decisions would I make?

Oh Great Spirit, guide my path today and help me see the value of choosing the Red Road.

cherokee_greg
08-31-2011, 12:17 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - August 31
"Our Creator makes available to us all that we need. It is an honor to go out and gather it. We must remember to say 'Thank You.' It is honorable to give away, to show our gratitude... and to let the children see this."
-- Barney Bush, SHAWNEE
So many times we forget to say "thank You" to the Creator. He made for us an abundant universe. He built the Mother Earth to reproduce plenty of everything. It is an honor to be a part of the Great Spirit's world. The Creator always gives us what we need. When we are given things, we should be willing to share it with others. Whenever we give to others, this makes us feel good inside. The more we give, the better we feel. The better we feel, the more we want to give. We need to teach this to our children. The children learn by our behavior.

My Creator, thank you for today. Thank you for the sun. Thank you for the earth. Thank you for my life. Thank you for......

cherokee_greg
09-02-2011, 10:54 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day September 2



"I remember Dawson (No Horse) said, 'Once you say your prayers, don't worry about them. If you worry about them, they'll just fade away.'"





--Chuck Ross, LAKOTA



Today I need to remember You are everywhere. I need to remember how much You love me. I need to know, Grandfathers, that You are always listening. Today I need to know how much You care. Today I will remember the advice of the Elders. "Say your prayers and then don't worry - know that the Great One has heard you." It's so much easier to do this, Grandfather, when I feel connected to You.


My Creator, allow me this day to feel your presence. Let me walk the path of life today and talk to You many times. Give me faith, my Grandfather.

cherokee_greg
09-02-2011, 10:56 PM
Wow talk about Creator talking to us ? I know this is a message for me. Wow. What a powerful God !


Elder's Meditation of the Day September 2



"I remember Dawson (No Horse) said, 'Once you say your prayers, don't worry about them. If you worry about them, they'll just fade away.'"





--Chuck Ross, LAKOTA



Today I need to remember You are everywhere. I need to remember how much You love me. I need to know, Grandfathers, that You are always listening. Today I need to know how much You care. Today I will remember the advice of the Elders. "Say your prayers and then don't worry - know that the Great One has heard you." It's so much easier to do this, Grandfather, when I feel connected to You.


My Creator, allow me this day to feel your presence. Let me walk the path of life today and talk to You many times. Give me faith, my Grandfather.

cherokee_greg
09-04-2011, 10:20 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 3
"Once you have achieved this oneness, when you talk, God talks; when you act, God acts."
-- Chuck Ross, LAKOTA
In my innermost self, I know this to be true. I know of this oneness. The more I am free of doubt, jealousy, judgment, selfishness, anger, the closer I am to this oneness. When I am right with the Creator, nothing can touch me. When I am right with the Creator I always say the right things. When I am right with the Creator, my thoughts are always good. When I am right with the Creator, my actions are always good.

Great Spirit, remove from me those things that block me from You. Allow me this day to experience the oneness.

cherokee_greg
09-04-2011, 07:14 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 4
"the Elders say that if you want something good, you have to suffer for it."
-- Chuck Ross, LAKOTA
People sometimes have a misconception of sacrifice. This is a strong word for Indian people. On the other side of sacrifice is another whole world. During sacrifice, our beliefs are tested. We may all have good beliefs but if you test a good belief, then you get real beliefs. Real beliefs make new people; real beliefs make new self images. Real beliefs allow determination and desires and faith to come true. Good is always available to us but we often can't bring it within until we let go of the old ways. We let go of the old ways by suffering. Suffering is only letting go of things that don't work anymore. On the other side of suffering is a new world.

Creator, help me to let go of old ways. Let my old thoughts and beliefs be abandoned. Every change is preceded by struggle. Help me go through the struggle today.

cherokee_greg
09-06-2011, 10:06 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 6
"We all form self-images and much of our behavior is pretty well determined by how we feel about ourselves."
-- Eunice Baumann-Nelson, Ph.D., PENOBSCOT
There is a cycle of building beliefs called the self talk cycle. Our self talk builds our self image and our self image determines our behavior, our actions, and our self worth - how we feel about ourselves. If we want to change the way we feel about ourselves we need to change our self talk. We need to build ourselves up. We need to talk to ourselves in a kind, positive, uplifting, good way. We need to talk to ourselves about the good things that are happening and know that we are worthy and expect abundance.

Oh Great Spirit, today help me to know myself. Help me to see the joy, kindness, strength and beauty that I am.

The Hollyberry Lady
09-06-2011, 12:57 PM
As usual, great stuff, Greg! :waving:


It's kind of a sad time of year for me so your posts are very uplifting. Thank you. :D


: )

cherokee_greg
09-08-2011, 07:32 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 7
"Education is the new weapon of Indian people."
-- Eddie Box, SOUTHERN UTE
People have the ability to adapt. In these modern times we must get educated so the people don't lose. We need lawyers, doctors, nurses, foresters, scientists, educators, carpenters, welders. These skills are needed to help the people. While we are learning, we need to remember to keep the culture, learn the dances, sing the songs, learn the language and maintain the Red Road for future generations.

Great Spirit, let my education never lack the meaning and value of spirituality.

cherokee_greg
09-08-2011, 07:41 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 8
"Keep your life simple because the more you get, the more complicated it becomes."
-- Joe Coyhis, STOCKBRIDGE-MUNSEE
The old ones say, lead a simple life. The society we live in is all about getting more houses, cars, luxury and credit cards. The law of worry says, the more you have, the more you need to worry. You get a house, then you need insurance, then you need to take care of the yard and the list goes on. Next, you may want a bigger house with a bigger yard which costs more in insurance. Along with the accumulation of materialism, are other "gifts." Soon you become a slave and the materialism owns you. Lead a simple life and have peace of mind. Lead a simple life and be spiritual.

Creator, let my foundation be spiritual and simple.

cherokee_greg
09-09-2011, 10:33 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 9
"...[W]isdom comes only when you stop looking for it and start truly living the life the Creator intended for you."
-- Lelia Fisher, HOH
There are many things that block us from wisdom such as; selfishness, secrets, hate, anger, jealousy and judgments. Another thing that can block us from wisdom is trying too hard or wishing something would happen. Wishing implies doubt and trying implies control. We need to let go of these things. We need to abandon ourselves to the Creator. As soon as we surrender everything, the wisdom starts to flow. The Elders know how to help us with this. Just ask them.

My Great Spirit, today I surrender my life and my will to Your care.

nannerfunboi
09-09-2011, 01:38 PM
i so agree greg with wisdom/whatever comming only when we dont solicit
it.. and doesnt come from us..
very good thought to ponder and put on simmer for continued
thought..
thanks hope your'e feeling good lately...
:goteam:

cherokee_greg
09-10-2011, 11:55 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day September 10



"One of the first things Seneca children learned was that they might create their own world, their own environment, by visualizing actions and desires in prayer. The Senecas believed that everything that made life important came from within. Prayer assisted in developing a guideline toward discipline and self control."





--Twylah Nitcsh, SENECA



All permanent and lasting change starts first on the inside and works its way out. Having constant prayer and Creator directed visions helps us to live in harmony. This is the best way to grow strong and become a Warrior. No matter what is going on outside of ourselves, it is our projection that makes it so. It is our projections that even give it any meaning. Another way is each day to turn our life and our will over to the care of the Great Spirit. Then He will show us His desire for us. When we are in alignment to His desire, we become very joyful and very happy.


Oh Great Spirit, You take care of me today and tell me what I can do for You today. Give me the discipline to talk to You whenever I am in doubt or fear. Let me come to You if I get irritated. You are my solution.

cherokee_greg
09-12-2011, 10:11 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 11
"Listen to all the teachers in the woods. Watch the trees, the animals, and all living things - you'll learn more from them than from books."
-- Joe Coyhis, STOCKBRIDGE-MUNSEE
Nature is a living example of how communities live in harmony. If you go into the forest or mountain and sit still and watch, ask yourself, what lessons are being taught? Then watch how the animals conduct themselves. The trees could represent diversity. The flowers could represent people. Notice how everything in nature assists one another. See how balance works. See how conflict is handled. Can you see acts of forgiveness? Can you spot respect? Nature is full of wisdom if we will only consider her to be our teacher.

My Creator, today let me learn from nature

cherokee_greg
09-12-2011, 10:12 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 12
"If you get troubled, go and sit by the river. The flowing water will take your troubles away."
-- Joe Coyhis, STOCKBRIDGE-MUNSEE
Sometimes we get mixed up and we don't know what to do. Go to the river or creek. Take your sage and tobacco; sit and be still. Talk to the water, offer tobacco and the healing water will take your problems downstream. Give thanks.

Great Spirit, heal my mind today, let me see love.

cherokee_greg
09-14-2011, 03:21 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 14
"Follow the Old One's advise."
-- Tom Porter, MOHAWK
The Old One is called by many different names - Grandfather, The Four directions, Father Sky, Mother Earth. We should seek the advice of the Old One to help us build our vision. He will put inside of our mind and heart the vision that we are to follow. This vision is recognizable by the feeling that it has with it. This feeling is hard to describe. It feels right, it feels calm, it feels joyful, it feels warm, it feels sacred. The Old One has a way of letting us know it really is His advice. Listen carefully!

Grandfather, I'm listening.

cherokee_greg
09-15-2011, 03:39 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 15
"Knowledge is a beautiful thing, but the use of knowledge in a good way is what makes for wisdom. Learning how to use knowledge in a sacred manner, that's wisdom to me. And to me, that's what a true Elder is."
-- Sun Bear, CHIPPEWA
We grow in wisdom by developing ourselves according to the four directions of the Medicine Wheel - emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Let's say we started drinking and drugging in our teenage years. Our emotional development will stop, but we will grow older physically. We could then develop into an immature adult. As adults we might be acting like we were teenagers. Once we stop drinking or drugging, our emotional development will begin again. We need to grow and nurture ourselves in all four directions. We need to involve the Great Spirit's guidance in our development. That's the only way we become wise individuals and live our lives in harmony and in a sacred way.

Oh Great Spirit, guide my thinking today. Let me walk in a sacred way on the Red Road. Let me be a learner of lessons and give me Your greatest gift - wisdom!

cherokee_greg
09-17-2011, 10:04 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day September 17

"The old people must start talking and the young people must start listening."

--Thomas Banyacya, HOPI

We are at a critical time in transferring cultural knowledge and spiritual ways. During the last few years the young people have not been interested in learning the old ways. The only place this knowledge is found is among the Elders. We must encourage the young to visit with the Elders. The adults need to think also about learning the culture. The Elders are getting old and soon will go to the other side. Each of us must pause and think about our individual responsibility to learn the culture and teach this to our young.



Great Spirit, help us to learn and remember the old ways.

cherokee_greg
09-17-2011, 10:18 AM
Sorry this is out of order forgot to post it yesterday,it was a chemo day.

Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 16
"To me, the wisdom the Elders have to manifest is in teaching people how to live in harmony and balance with each other and the Earth."
-- Sun Bear, CHIPPEWA
You cannot give away what you don't have. You need to give away what you have in order to keep it. Our Elders have lived their lives with a lot of trial and error. They have experienced how to do things well and they have experienced what didn't work for them as they grew old. They know things about living that we don't know. So, through the years the Elders have gained wisdom. They usually have a whole different point of view because of all their experiences. There are two ways to learn. Someone tells us what they did and we do the same thing or someone tells us what they did and we choose not to do it. Both of these paths will help us to live.

My Creator, teach me about choices and decisions and consequences. Put an Elder in my life to guide me.

cherokee_greg
09-18-2011, 10:23 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 18

"I walk in and out of many worlds."

-- Joy Harjo, CREEK/CHEROKEE

In my mind are many dwellings. Each of the dwellings we create ourselves - the house of anger, the house of despair, the house of self pity, the house of indifference, the house of negative, the house of positive, the house of hope, the house of joy, the house of peace, the house of enthusiasm, the house of cooperation, the house of giving. Each of these houses we visit each day. We can stay in any house for as long as we want. We can leave these mental houses any time we wish. We create the dwelling, we stay in the dwelling, we leave the dwelling whenever we wish. We can create new rooms, new houses. Whenever we enter these dwellings, this becomes our world until we leave for another. What world will we live in today?

Creator, no one can determine which dwelling I choose to enter. No one has the power to do so, only me. Let me choose wisely today.

nannerfunboi
09-18-2011, 12:36 PM
excellent message on houses we live in..
thanks greg..
we all make choices of what houses we have in our lives
and how long we choose to spend in some..
so many of us ..me included .. spend to much time in some
of our houses that dont allow ourselves to be better people..
better partners,better parents,better neighbors,better citizens,
better to ourselves..
much thanks greg..
always get some new angle on some thought from you
:goteam:

cherokee_greg
09-19-2011, 12:35 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 19
"I am building myself. There are many roots. I plant, I pick, I prune. I consume."
-- Wendy Rose, HOPI/MIWOK
The most sacred thing on this Mother Earth is life. My life on this earth is governed by God's laws, principles, and spiritual values. These things are my roots. Let me see Your gifts of growing and becoming a spiritual warrior. Make my strength based on values - spiritual values; on principles and laws, the laws of God that really run the universe. We need to realize the seeds we plant in the spring will be what shows up in our summer season of growth and will be the fruits that we will harvest in our fall season. We really have a lot to do with what shows up in our lives.

Great Spirit, let my seed that I plant today be based on values that will make You pleased with my selection.

cherokee_greg
09-20-2011, 10:29 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day September 20



"You will only get back what you give out."





--Joe Coyhis, STOCKBRIDGE-MUNSEE



The Great Spirit created a system of balance and justice. This law says, if you treat others with respect, you will be treated with respect. If you gossip about no one, no one will gossip about you. If you are fair in all of your dealings, you can expect the same. If you share with others, others will share with you. If you judge others, others will judge you. You will always get back what you give out. The original teaching talks about being a giving person. A giving person will constantly be on the receiving end.


My Creator, help me to be a giving person today.

cherokee_greg
09-21-2011, 10:22 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 21
"everything is laid out for you. Your path is straight ahead of you. Sometimes it's invisible but it's there. You may not know where it's going, but still you have to follow that path. It's the path to the Creator. That's the only path there is."
-- Leon Shenandoah, ONONDAGA
Everything on the earth has a purpose and a reason for its existence. Every human being is a warrior and every warrior has a song written in his/her heart and that song must be sung or the soul forever remains restless. This song is always about serving the Great Spirit and helping the people. This song is always sung for the people. Many times I need to learn much about the difficulties of life. I need to know this, so I must experience it. Then I can be of use to the people. Because I am experiencing difficulty does not mean I have left the path or that I have done something wrong. It means I'm doing the will of the Great Spirit during these times of testing. I need to pray constantly to keep a good attitude.

Great Spirit, this I know - You will never leave me, only my doubting makes it seem like You do. This I know - Your love is always dependable, only my doubting makes it seem like You do. Today remove the doubts from my belief system and allow me to stand straight and see You with straight eyes.

cherokee_greg
09-22-2011, 11:00 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 22
"I think the spiritual values come first and everything else follows."
-- Leonard George, Chief Councilor
To properly develop, the human being needs to learn the guiding principles. It is from these principles that we make our decisions. Spiritual values are the guiding principles given to us by the Great Spirit. He says if we live by these spiritual values, the results we experience will be good. These spiritual values will develop and guide the human being by helping us to think right. Right thinking will improve our choices and decisions. Doing this will bring good consequences.

Great Spirit, teach me values first.

cherokee_greg
09-23-2011, 10:46 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 23
"When that spirit comes, we don't ever ask questions. If I don't understand, I just hold onto it. Then later down the road, maybe in a couple of years, I understand what that spirit meant."
-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA
At certain spiritual events or happenings, it is possible for the spirits to come. Sometimes these spirits look like sparklers of light, sometimes you can feel them, sometimes they will look like live human beings. The spirits always come for a reason. When we deal with the spirit world, we need to be patient. The Great Spirit will tell us the meaning of these happenings when He is ready.

Great Spirit, let me be aware of Your presence.

Bradford
09-23-2011, 08:51 PM
Really appreciate the effort you put into this thread Cherokee Greg. It helps put things in perspective after a long day, I should probably read them in the mornings though, LOL!

cherokee_greg
09-23-2011, 10:27 PM
Really appreciate the effort you put into this thread Cherokee Greg. It helps put things in perspective after a long day, I should probably read them in the mornings though, LOL!

Thanks happy you like them. They help me allot. I have these really neet books cherokee feast of days I read too there great. here is a link about the books
Cherokee Publications (http://www.cherokeepublications.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=67)

cherokee_greg
09-24-2011, 09:33 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 24
"Touch not the poisonous firewater that makes wise men turn to fools and robs the spirit of its vision."
-- Tecumseh, SHAWNEE
It's not an accident that firewater is also called spirits. Firewater affects our judgments. The Great Spirit created a set of laws and principles by which we are to live our lives. When we have problems we should pray and ask for the wisdom of these laws. If instead we turn to liquor, our judgement will be affected. It is the decision and choice made under the influence of booze that causes us to be fools. We need to learn to lean on prayer and not on the spirits of alcohol.

Great Spirit, teach me to pray. Let not one drop of liquor touch my lips today.

cherokee_greg
09-25-2011, 11:06 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 25
"Even the trees have spirits - everything has a spirit."
-- Mary Hayes, CLAYOQUOT
The trees are great teachers. The trees are great listeners. That is why we should meditate in their presence. The Great spirit is in every rock, every animal, every human being, and in every tree. The Great Spirit has been in some trees for hundreds of years. Therefore, the trees have witnessed and heard much. The trees are the Elders of the Elders. Their spirits are strong and very healing.

Great Spirit, teach me respect for all spiritual things.

Bradford
09-25-2011, 12:33 PM
Jesus said,

"Lift a stone and you will find me, Split a piece of wood and I am there."

From the Gospel of Thomas.

cherokee_greg
09-26-2011, 10:48 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 26
"No one likes to be criticized, but criticism can be something like the desert wind that, in whipping the tender stalks, forces them to strike their roots down deeper for security."
-- Polingaysi Qoyawayma, HOPI
You move toward and become that which you think about. Creating a vision is what guides our lives. If we get off track with our vision, then we experience conflict. Conflict is nature's way of telling us we are not in harmony. Criticism can be a way for one human being to help another. Often our Elders will give us criticism. This feedback is intended to be helpful. Criticism from our Elders helps us grow strong.

Great Spirit, today, if I need it, please provide me positive criticism.

cherokee_greg
09-27-2011, 09:35 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 27
"I received my education from my culture. My teachers were my grandmothers, and I am really thankful for that."
-- Mary One Spot, SARCEE
Our often unrecognized, but most powerful teachers are our women. In order for men to learn a balanced way, we need to learn from our men Elders and our women Elders. Learning from the women Elders will teach us a whole different set of values and insights to life. When we have life problems, we need to go to the grandmothers to get their advice.

Grandmothers, teach me the values of the Great Mystery.

cherokee_greg
09-27-2011, 09:42 AM
Todays really hit home with me. My grandfather on my dads side did not talk much he was Cherokee and German but my granny was Cherokee and Choctaw she always told me stories and taught me the old ways. The same with my Grandfather on moms side he was Cherokee he did not talk much and his wife my grandmother was German and Irish. So all my teaching came from my Granny I shall forever be grateful to her. Now I cherish all the moments with my mom. I love listening to her stories.So this meditation is close to me.

cherokee_greg
09-28-2011, 10:09 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 28
"Love is something that you can leave behind you when you die. It's that powerful."
-- John (Fire) Lame Deer, ROSEBUD LAKOTA
The Old Ones say, love is all anyone needs. Love doesn't go away nor can love be divided. Once you commit an act of love, you'll find it continues. Love is like setting up dominos one behind the other. Once you hit the first domino, it will touch the second one which will touch the third one and so on. Every love act or love thought has an affect on each person as well as touching the whole world. If you live a life filled with love, the results will affect your friends, relatives, and other people, even after you go to the other side. So... Love.

My Creator, let me love. Let me put into action the love dominos.

cherokee_greg
09-29-2011, 07:51 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 29
"So I prayed, but I had to pray from my heart. All of my concentration and thoughts went from my head to my heart. All of my senses - hearing, smell, taste, and feeling - were connected to my heart."
-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA
The heart is the gateway to the Unseen World, to the Spirit World. It takes real concentration to do this. To connect to our own heart is also a mental state. It starts in the head and transitions to the heart. This mental state is our inner stillness. Be still and know. This place of the heart is very joyous and peaceful. It is this place that we become one with God, our Creator.

Great Spirit, teach me to be a heart warrior

cherokee_greg
09-30-2011, 09:50 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - September 30





"Don't be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts."



-- Don Talayesva, HOPI



Human beings function from choice. We can choose to stuff things, or we can choose to let go of things. If we choose to stuff things, then we will feel a heaviness, or sorrow, self pity or fear. Sometimes we feel the need to cry. Sometimes we are taught it is not okay to cry. The creator designed the human being to cry. Crying is a release. This release allows us to let go of thoughts that are not helping us so we can open to new thoughts that will help. Crying is natural for women and men.


Grandfather, if I need to cry, let me realize it's a natural process and help me to let go.

cherokee_greg
10-01-2011, 11:02 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 1





"So don't be afraid. What we left behind, leave it back there. Try to do some good. Let's try to take a step, try to think something good."



-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA



Every day is a new day. Sometimes we make mistakes. We do not need to carry these mistakes along with us. Take the lessons and leave the mistakes behind. Look forward to today. Today we can do something good. Today we can have good thoughts. Today we can think kind, uplifting thoughts about ourselves. Today I will think good about ...


My Creator, today I ask You to direct my thoughts.

cherokee_greg
10-02-2011, 10:37 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 2





"Laughter - that is something very sacred, especially for us Indians."



-- John (Fire) Lame Deer, ROSEBUD LAKOTA



Laughter is mental, laughter is emotional, laughter is physical, and laughter is spiritual. Laughter helps us find balance. If we get too angry, laughter will turn that emotion in a balanced direction. If we have a mental picture of someone who is too strong, laughter will help ease the tension. If the body is stressed, laughter will release natural relaxants into our muscles and our nervous system. Laughter often changes our attitude. We need to lighten up and laugh more.


Great Spirit, teach me to laugh

The Hollyberry Lady
10-02-2011, 05:03 PM
Thanks again, Greg! I enjoy coming back to these and seeing all the great ones I missed. Love the one about laughter. We all need more if it in our lives.


: )

cherokee_greg
10-03-2011, 11:22 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 3





"Spiritual Values are an Attitude."



-- Leonard George, Chief Councilor



Attitude is a direction which we follow. If you have a positive attitude, it means you will lean towards a positive direction. If you have a negative attitude, it means you will lean away from the Spirit. Therefore, if we lean toward spiritual values, then our actions will become significant and important. If we lean away from spiritual values, our actions will become insignificant or unimportant. For example, if we value love, we will lean towards it; we will prefer to express and embrace it.


Great Spirit, teach me the significance of spiritual values.

cherokee_greg
10-04-2011, 10:31 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 4





"Search for the truth. Indian values teach the holistic approach to the use of technology for mankind's good."



-- Al Qoyawayma, HOPI



The Great Spirit had given us certain values to live by. If we learn to think in harmony with these values such as; respect, love, patience, tolerance, commitment, trust, etc., we cannot get off track. No matter what we do, we will always be in harmony. For example, if we are respectful, then we will respect the earth, our children, our women, our men, and ourselves. Indian values help us walk under the guidance of the Great Spirit.


My Creator, today I search for the truth, Your truth. Please let me see it.

cherokee_greg
10-05-2011, 09:38 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 5





"The dances are prayers."



-- Pop Chalee, TAOS PUEBLO



When we dance to the drum we pray to the Creator and attract the heartbeat of the earth. We never dance without reason; every dance has a purpose. We dance for rain; we dance for healing; we dance for seasons; we dance for joy; we dance for our children; we dance for the people; we dance for courage. The drum plays to the beat of the heart, to the beat of the Earth. The drum connects us to the Earth while we dance our prayers.


Oh, Great One, let my dance and prayer be heard by You.

cherokee_greg
10-06-2011, 10:51 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 6





"Lots of people hardly ever feel real soil under their feet, see plants grow except in flower pots, or get far enough beyond the street light to catch the enchantment of a night sky studded with stars. When people live far from scenes of the Great Spirit's making, it's easy for them to forget His laws."



-- Tatanga Mani (Walking Buffalo), STONEY



Nature is life's greatest teacher. The natural laws are hidden in nature. Hidden are solutions to everyday problems such as; conflict resolution, how to forgive, lessons about differences, how to manage organizations, how to think. Hidden are feelings. You can look at something and you will feel it. At night, have you ever looked at the sky when there are no clouds? As you look at all the stars, your heart will become very joyful. You will walk away feeling joyful and peaceful. We need to visit nature so we can see and feel these things.


My Creator, let me learn nature's lessons.

cherokee_greg
10-07-2011, 10:56 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 7





"We have a biological father and mother, but our real Father is Tunkashila [Creator] and our real Mother is the Earth."



-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA



Who really gives us our life? Who really gives us our food and nurturing? Who really allows us to be born? We are born through our parents who act as the vehicle of life for the Creator and Mother Earth. Our parents take care of us for a little while and when we are ready we must leave them and be faithful to our true Father, the Creator, and our true Mother, the Earth. Then we need to be of service to the Creator and be respectful to Mother Earth.


Great Spirit, thank you for being my Father. Teach me to honor the Earth.

cherokee_greg
10-08-2011, 10:07 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 8





"I think there was a big mistake made (when) people separated religion and the government. That was one of the big mistakes that was made, because when they did that, then they removed the Creator from their life - or at least from half to three-quarters of their life."



-- Tom Porter, MOHAWK



The Elders tell us that every thing the Creator made is interconnected. Nothing can be separated. The Elders say we should pray before we do anything. We should ask the Creator, what do You want us to do? We are put on the Earth to do the will of God. If we run our governments, communities, families, or ourselves. Without the spiritual we are doomed to failure.


My Creator, guide my life to include the spiritual in everything I do.

cherokee_greg
10-10-2011, 10:38 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 9





"That spiritual power I wear is much more beautiful and much greater. We call it wisdom, knowledge, power and gift, or love. There are these four parts to that spiritual power. So I wear those. When you wear that power it will beautify your mind and spirit. You become beautiful. Everything that Tunkashila creates is beautiful."



-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA



When I was young, I asked my grandfather, "What should I pray for?" He thought for a long time and then he said, "Pray only for wisdom and for the knowledge of love." This makes a lot of sense. No matter what happens I ask the Creator to show me the lessons I should be learning. I pray for Him to help me learn the lessons. By doing this everyday we become beautiful human beings.


Great Spirit, grant me Your wisdom.

cherokee_greg
10-10-2011, 10:47 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 10





"I think that's what unity is - knowing one another,coming together, and working with no conflict."



-- Chief Alan Wilson, HAIDA



When we are aligned with spiritual values, we cannot be in fear or conflict. When we are aligned to spiritual values, we have the Creator whispering solutions in our ears. Unity is one of the spiritual values. When we value unity we value solutions. If we think this way, then we have no conflict within ourselves.


Great Spirit, let me see through Your eyes

cherokee_greg
10-11-2011, 11:32 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 11





"Men and women have an equal responsibility to restore the strength of the family, which is the foundation of all cultures."



-- Haida Gwaii Traditional Circle of Elders



The family is the heartbeat of strength of the culture. The grandfathers and grandmothers taught their children; they in turn had children who taught their children. If the family isn't taught the culture, then the children become adults, and the adults become the grandfathers and grandmothers, and the result is the culture becomes lost. This is how language is lost; this is how dances are lost; this is how knowledge is lost. We need to listen to our Elders, today, before it's too late.


Great Spirit, teach me the culture so I can teach the children.

cherokee_greg
10-12-2011, 09:58 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day October 12



"The greatest obstacle to the internal nature is the mind. If it relies on logic�the domain of the inner nature is inaccessible. The simple fact is a man does not challenge the wisdom of the Holy Mystery."





--Turtleheart, TETON SIOUX



Why is it we need to analyze and understand everything? The Great Mystery has designed certain areas of creation to be a mystery because humans usually misuse it. We use the Great Mystery and see it unfold only under the direction of the Great Spirit. The Creator is in charge.


Great Spirit, let me realize You are in charge. I'm to do what You want

cherokee_greg
10-13-2011, 11:35 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day October 13



"So unbelievable things like that happen. But you have to believe it first. Not wait until you see it first, then touch it, then believe it... You have to say it from the heart."





--Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA



The power of our belief system is incredible. The power of faith is a very natural power. How do we have faith? Inside of our minds we form a mental picture with our self talk. Self talk is recorded in our minds in three dimensions - words that trigger a picture, which has a feeling or an emotion attached to it. Once we get the words and the picture, it is the emotion that makes the idea turn into a belief. You get the right emotion by saying things from the heart. The heart is the source of emotions which can cause unbelievable things to happen.


Great Spirit, with You everything is possible.

cherokee_greg
10-14-2011, 10:55 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day October 14



"Each soul must meet the morning sun, the new sweet earth and the Great Silence alone!"





--Ohiyesa (Dr. Charles A. Eastman), SANTEE SIOUX



The most important thing we can do during the course of the day is pray in the morning. There is a special time in the morning that has great power. This is the exact time the sun is rising. During the rising of the sun, everything on the Earth is waking up. Animals, plants, birds, and humans will be blessed at the rising of the sun. This is a special time to help us prepare for the day. During this time we ask the Creator to bless our day. We ask Him to guide us, to protect us and to give us courage to overcome the day's obstacles. Doing this everyday will give us knowledge of God's will for us.


Grandfather, Grandmother, guide my path. Let my thinking be guided by You.

cherokee_greg
10-15-2011, 11:06 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 15





"All of us begin to rethink what is good about ourselves - put the past where it belongs - and get on with the possibilities of the present!"



-- Howard Rainer, TAOS PUEBLO-CREEK



There is a saying, you move toward and become that which you think about. So the question for today is, what are you thinking about? Are you thinking bad things about yourself or are you thinking good things about yourself? Are you thinking about a worldly life? Are you thinking good things about people or are you gossiping about people? Are you focusing on past things or are you living in the future? We need to bring our thoughts into the NOW, right here.


Great Spirit, let me experience living in the present moment.

cherokee_greg
10-16-2011, 11:13 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 16





"Many religions have been brought to this land. And the way my religion is, they teach me, and they taught me, and told me to resect all religions. And I still do that."



-- Horace Axtell, NEZ PERCE



The Creator put on this Earth many different religions which represent different roads to walk to God. All religions are right and good if the path is the path to God. Should we be judging which road is better or worse than the other? When we accept each other's way we can stand in a circle, hold hands and listen to each other as we pray to God. Let us be more accepting of the religions of others.


Great Spirit - God, Grandfather, Grandmother, Lord - let me know peace.

cherokee_greg
10-17-2011, 10:20 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 17





"Peace... comes within the souls of men when they realize their relationship, their oneness, with the universe and all its powers, and when they realize that at the center of the Universe dwells Wakan-Tanka, and that this center is really everywhere, it is within each of us."



-- Black Elk (Hehaka Sapa) OGLALA SIOUX



If we are to know peace we must look within ourselves. In order to do this, we must learn to be still. We must quiet the mind. We must learn to meditate. Meditation helps us locate and find the center that is within ourselves. The center is where the Great One resides. When we start to look for peace, we need to realize where it is within ourselves. When we experience conflict we need to pause for a moment and ask the Power within ourselves, "How do you want me to handle this? What would you suggest I do in this situation?" By asking the Higher Power for help we find peace.


Creator, help me to find peace.

cherokee_greg
10-18-2011, 12:37 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 18





"But we have to stick by the wisdom of our ancestors..."



-- Paula Weasel Head, BLOOD



A long time ago the Elders and our ancestors learned to walk on the Earth and to live in harmony. They were taught the Laws which govern everything, and they were taught traditional values. This wisdom should be made available to the younger generations. We need to speak to the Elders and learn from them. We need to do this so we can pass the knowledge on to our children.


My Creator, help me learn the wisdom of my ancestors.

cherokee_greg
10-19-2011, 09:54 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 19





"The teachings are for all, not just for Indians... The white people never wanted to learn before. They thought we were savages. Now they have a different understanding, and they do want to learn. We are all children of God. The tradition is open to anyone who wants to learn."



-- Don Jose Matusuwa, HUICHOL



In the summer of 1994, a white buffalo calf was born. This means that now is the time for all races to come together. The Elders say that at this time a voice from within will speak to everyone. It will say now is the time to forgive, now is the time to come together. Are we willing to do this? Are we willing to quit judging other people? The Elders say, He will be talking through people of all races and gender. We need to open our hearts and welcome our brothers and sisters.


Great Spirit, let my ears be open as I walk the path You have chosen for me.

cherokee_greg
10-20-2011, 06:31 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 20





"As Elders, it is our place to show respect to our young people in order to gain respect."



-- Grace Azak, NISGA'A



The attitude of our leaders will be the attitude of the people. The attitude of the parents will be the attitude of the children. If respect is shown from above, respect will be developed below. If the Elders show respect, the younger people will be respectful. As above, so below. This happens because of interconnectedness. The heart of the Elders is connected to the heart of the youth.


Great Spirit, in the fall season let me respect both the Elders and the youth.

cherokee_greg
10-21-2011, 09:18 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 21





"There is one God looking down on us all. We are children of the one God. God is listening to me. The sun, the darkness, the winds are all listening to what we now say."



-- Geronimo, APACHE



The Old Ones before us knew things. Many of them were so spiritual that the Creator told them things through visions, ceremonies, and prayer. The Creator taught them about interconnectedness, balance and respect. The Old Ones experienced these things and told us we are all children of the same God. We all live under the same natural laws. Every human being, every animal, every plant, every insect, every bird, we are all the same in the eyes of God.


Great Mystery, teach me to respect all the things You have created.

cherokee_greg
10-22-2011, 01:25 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 22





"Growth is a painful process."



-- Wilma Mankiller, CHEROKEE



Whenever we grow, we usually need to let go of emotional attachments. Letting go can be painful. Sometimes growth allows us to deal with fear. All fear can fit into two categories: one, we're going to lose something we have, and two, we're not going to get something we want. Both of these categories can cause pain. The best way to grow is to pray to the Great Spirit and ask Him to guide and protect us. All growth is guided by God.


My Creator, guide my growth today and give me Your love and courage to help my pain

cherokee_greg
10-24-2011, 09:26 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 24
"We create that bad among ourselves. We create it; then we try to call it devil, satan, or evil. But man creates it. There is no devil. Man creates the devil."
-- Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA
Inside every human being are the laws and codes by which we should live. These laws and codes are communicated to us through a little voice. When we are still, this voice guides us. If we choose to live out of harmony, our lives become filled with anger, hate, selfishness, dishonesty, etc... When these things appear in our lives, we give up accountability and blame it on something or someone else. If we want to live in harmony, we need to pray our way back to living the principles the Creator gave us.

Grandfather, today let me walk with the principles.

nannerfunboi
10-25-2011, 09:37 AM
once again.. you rock greg!!
i needed last couple thoughts..
thanks man...
its been crazy here.. work,life..and trying to get everything
dug and stored away before we get hard frost ..
hope youre doing well greg ...
:goteam:

cherokee_greg
10-25-2011, 10:34 AM
Your welcome im happy these help people. You know before the cancer I sometimes thought how much drama life was at times. Now I look back on it and think wow it was not so bad it was me thinking it was drama. Now the things I face I have to give each one to creator im learning how to finally serander things to the creator.And still I try and hold on to things untill finally I just give up and let god do his work. I guess its human nature. Take care many blessings your way.
Greg


once again.. you rock greg!!
i needed last couple thoughts..
thanks man...
its been crazy here.. work,life..and trying to get everything
dug and stored away before we get hard frost ..
hope youre doing well greg ...
:goteam:

cherokee_greg
10-25-2011, 10:34 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 25





"What does it matter how long I pray, so long as my prayers are answered?"



-- Sitting Bull, HUNKPAPA LAKOTA



Too often we worry about the words we use in prayer. We focus on the words. What really counts is the spirit and intent behind our words. It is the spirit and intent that the Creator responds to. He reads and listens to our heart. Prayer isn't only when we fold our hands and pray. Prayer is when we talk to the Creator even when we are walking down a path or sitting on a hill or walking in the mountains. The Elders say, walk in prayer. We should be willing to talk with the Great One.


Great Spirit, today I will pray to You all day. Listen to my heart.

cherokee_greg
10-25-2011, 10:39 AM
I was too tired after the chemo to post this one here it is.

Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 23

"We do not walk alone. Great Being walks beside us. Know this and be grateful."

-- Polingaysi Q“yawayma, HOPI

Many religions have different names for these Beings. Some are called angels, some are called spirits. These Spirit Beings are helpers. They guide us, protect us and will help us during our times of need. Sometimes they give us dreams. We need not be afraid when these Spirit Helpers come. We need to understand they are the Creator's helpers.


Great Spirit, send me the helpers to guide my path as I seek to walk in Your service.

nannerfunboi
10-25-2011, 11:28 AM
so true greg.. i see what i call "drama" at work/friends/family..and
i think wow..im so glad im "boring" LOL
but..it can be the drama that makes life.. just so it doesnt affect our
lives in a negative way..
but..its so subjective isnt it.. our point of view at the time..
its good to stop..breathe..relax..and feel and just think..
:)
again..much thanks greg...
:goteam:

cherokee_greg
10-26-2011, 10:28 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - October 26





"It seems that if Elders can feel that you are open to learning, they are more than generous with their teaching."



-- Chief Councilor, Lenard George



There is a saying, when the student is ready the teacher appears. If the Elders sense that you are ready, they will help you see and learn new things. Most human beings love to share what they know with people who are excited to listen. If you are talking to someone and you feel they really aren't listening, you won't want to tell them much. Before you go talk to the Elders, examine your motives - are you really excited about listening to them?


My Creator, give me an open mind.

oakshadows
10-26-2011, 03:34 PM
More should keep an open mind, they would be amazed at what enters.

oakshadows
10-26-2011, 03:36 PM
More should keep an open mind, they would be surprised at what enters.
oops, double post, sorry.

Blake09
10-27-2011, 07:23 PM
:03:


An old Cherokee told his grandson, "My son, there's a battle between two wolves inside us all. One is Evil. It is anger, jealousy, greed, resentment, inferiority, lies, & ego. The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, humility, kindness, empathy, & truth." The boy thought about it & asked his grandfather, "Which wolf wins?" The old Cherokee quietly replied, "The one you feed."






.

cherokee_greg
11-01-2011, 03:41 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 1

"Times change but principles do not. Times change but lands do not. Times change but our culture and our language remain the same. And that's what you have to keep intact. It's not what you wear - it's what's in your heart."

-- Oren Lyons, ONONDAGA

Going back to the old ways doesn't mean giving up electricity, homes, and cars. It means living by the same principles, laws, and values that our ancestors lived by. This will allow us to live successfully in today's world. The spirituality our ancestors lived is the same spirituality we need in these modern times. There are too many influences from TV, radio, newspapers, magazines, and negative role models that are guiding our lives in a bad way. Our stability is in the laws, principles, and values that our ancestors were given and that our Elders teach us.


Great Spirit, let me live my life in a spiritual way.

cherokee_greg
11-02-2011, 09:56 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 2





"Praying is what has brought us old people through life. We've all gone through hard times. We've all done our share of bad things. But through our prayers and faith in the Creator we get together again and we try hard to live right."



-- Paula Weasel Head, BLOOD



As we go through life we find ourselves on track one day and off track the next day. We gain consistency through prayer. Prayer is our connection to the Great Spirit. Prayer is our channel for knowledge and wisdom. Prayer is how we keep our sanity. The Elders say we should walk in prayer.


Great Spirit, teach me to walk in prayer. Help keep my faith strong.

cherokee_greg
11-03-2011, 09:47 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 3





"A sundance woman is like the morning star, filled with spiritual beauty, wisdom and knowledge. Men and women are the most powerful of the polarities. We walk beside men as equal partners. It takes men and women who have respect and love for one another to live within the embrace of Father Sky and Mother Earth."



-- Dr. Henrietta Mann, SOUTHERN CHEYENNE



Our ceremonies bring out the best in us. It's in the ceremony that we find the place of honor and respect for each other. The place where the men honor the women and the women honor the men. We dance for each other. The ceremony helps us remember our responsibility toward each other. Men and women need to be strong, to love one another and be faithful. Only by doing this can we give our children knowledge of good relationships.


Great Spirit, today I will notice the power of the women; today I will notice the power of the men.

oakshadows
11-03-2011, 03:37 PM
Thank you, to often we forget that by helping each other we both gain. Not native taught but was always taught to respect women and treat them as an equal. We hope you are doing okay and keeping your health in good condition.

cherokee_greg
11-05-2011, 11:15 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 5

"You could study the ancestors, but without a deep feeling of communication with them it would be surface learning and surface talking. Once you have gone into yourself and have learned very deeply, appreciate it, and relate to it very well, everything will come very easily."

-- Ellen White, NANAIMO

Inside of every human being are our ancestors, and these ancestors still live. Today, the white man calls this DNA, but there is more than DNA. We have the ability to go inside of ourselves and learn from the ancestors. The ancestor teachings reside in the place of the center. The ancestors are waiting for us to come there so they can share the ancient teachings. It is said, "Be still and know".


Great Spirit, let me walk in the stillness.

cherokee_greg
11-05-2011, 11:20 AM
Here is yesterdays sorry im being forgetful lately.


Elder's Meditation of the Day November 4

"The honor of the people lies in the moccasin tracks of the woman. Walk the good road.... Be dutiful, respectful, gentle, and modest my daughter... Be strong with the warm, strong heart of the earth. No people goes down until their women are weak and dishonored, or dead upon the ground. Be strong and sing the strength of the Great Powers within you, all around you."


--Village Wise Man, SIOUX

The Elders say the Native American women will lead the healing among the tribes. We need to especially pray for our women, and ask the Creator to bless them and give them strength. Inside them are the powers of love and strength given by the Moon and the Earth. When everyone else gives up, it is the women who sings the songs of strength. She is the backbone of the people. So, to our women we say, sing your songs of strength; pray for your special powers; keep our people strong; be respectful, gentle, and modest.


Oh, Great One, bless our women. Make them strong today.

cherokee_greg
11-05-2011, 11:28 AM
Thank you, to often we forget that by helping each other we both gain. Not native taught but was always taught to respect women and treat them as an equal. We hope you are doing okay and keeping your health in good condition.

Thanks Noah. Yes its like a circle what goes around comes around it always comes back to you. Yes we should honor the woman. Im doing ok. I take it one day at a time. Life changes so fast. The most I have learned from all I been going through is like Forrest Gump said Life is like a box of chocolates we never know what were going to get. Every day can change so fast. Do what you can do today. Thank you for your words. Have a great day. Take care.

cherokee_greg
11-06-2011, 11:22 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 6





"It is well to be good to women in the strength of our manhood because we must sit under their hands at both ends of our lives."



-- He Dog, OGLALA LAKOTA



The women bring us into this life and nurture us as we grow up. When we reach our manhood, she supports us and sings the songs to help the family grow. The Elders say we must look at the woman in a sacred way. We must realize how special her powers are in brining forth life. The woman will bring balance to a man. The woman will help him see. It is said, behind every successful man is a supporting woman. Maybe we should examine how we are thinking about women. The Great Spirit says we should honor them. Are we respecting and honoring our women today?


Grandmother, Grandfather thank you for our women. Today, let me honor them.

cherokee_greg
11-07-2011, 11:59 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day November 7



"Abuse and repression have no place in a traditional family."





--Haida Gwaii, Traditional Circle of Elders



Traditional families guided by their culture were taught how to live. The were taught about relationships, respect, and spirituality. Only since alcohol was introduced to Indians have we seen physical abuse, sexual abuse and verbal abuse. These behaviors have no room in traditional families. The cycle of abuse must be broken during this generation. We do this by asking for help to quit drinking and abusing and return to our traditional culture and spirituality.


Creator, plant inside of me the knowledge of the traditional family

The Hollyberry Lady
11-07-2011, 01:35 PM
That's a real good one, Greg. ;)


There's so much alcohol and drug addiction out there, and it's tearing families apart.


: (

cherokee_greg
11-08-2011, 11:01 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day November 8



"See how the boy is with his sister and the other ones of his home lodge and you can know how the man will be with your daughter."





--LAKOTA Proverb



Very early in our lives we form beliefs, attitudes, expectations, and habits. We will live by these habits when we are older. The Elders say to watch the boy with his sister. If he is respectful and treats her good, then odds are that's the way he will treat all women when he is older. Also, watch the young girl and how she treats her brother, for that will indicate what kind of woman she will be to her man. We need to teach our children to respect one another while they are young. The best way to teach them is to show respect ourselves.


Great Spirit, let me be a role model for the children.

The Hollyberry Lady
11-08-2011, 01:39 PM
I like that one, Greg!


Funny because my older brother and I always had a super close relationship, throughout childhood and adulthood too. He would beat up people when we were kids, if they picked on me. As adults too, he would often defend me in certain situations. We were always close.


Too bad people we love sometimes die way before their time. I lost the best friend I ever had.


: (

cherokee_greg
11-09-2011, 11:56 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 9





"Language is a vehicle for carrying spirit, life, and family. Language, religion, and land base are three things that characterize culture."



-- Edmund Ladd, ZUNI PUEBLO



The Elders say we need to know the answers to three questions in order for us to be connected; the Earth, the Sky, the East, the West, the South, and the North. The three questions are: 1. Why are we? 2. Who are we? 3. Where are we going? If we know the language, if we have our spirituality, and if we can pray on sacred spots, then we are able to seek the answer to the questions. We must protect the language, religion, and land so our future generations can stay connected.


Great Spirit, help us maintain our language, spirit, family, religion and our Mother Earth.

cherokee_greg
11-11-2011, 11:11 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 10





"The battle for Indian children will be won in the classroom, not on the streets or on horses. The students of today are our warriors of tomorrow."



-- Wilma P. Mankiller, CHEROKEE



The world is constantly changing. One of the strengths of Indian people has been our adaptability. In today's world, education is what we need to survive. We need doctors, lawyers, teachers, scientists. We can become these things and still live in a cultural way. We need to live in two worlds; the educated world and the Indian cultural world. Education will help protect our land, our people's health, and provide knowledge for our people. We must teach reading, writing, and arithmetic. Also, we must teach the language, the culture, the ceremony, and the tradition of our people.


Creator, let me remember You are my teacher.

cherokee_greg
11-11-2011, 11:12 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 11





"If you don't know the language, you'll only see the surface of the culture...the language is the heart of the culture and you cannot separate it."



-- Elaine Ramos, TLINGIT



The Creator gave to every person their own special way to communicate and understand. Indians understand connectedness, balance, harmony, spirituality, and the relationship to Mother Earth. The understanding of these things is expressed in the language. The true understanding of culture is expressed in the language. The language is the heart of the people. If we have not learned the language, we need to find a teacher.


Great Spirit, help me to learn the culture. Let me pray and sing to You in my language.

Bradford
11-12-2011, 06:31 PM
Been away for a little while, I need to catch up! Thought about this thread almost everyday though. Thanks again Greg, I think I'm gonna buy the book you told me about.

cherokee_greg
11-13-2011, 04:11 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 13





"My Grandfather survived on this earth without using anything that did not go back into the earth. The whole world could learn from that."



-- Floyd Westerman, SIOUX



Our grandfathers knew how to live in harmony. They did not create poisons or technologies that destroyed things. They did not make their decisions based on greed or for selfish reasons. They did not take more then they used. Their thoughts and actions were about respect. The Elders conducted themselves in a respectful way. We need to consider our actions around respect for Mother Earth.


My Creator, have the grandfathers teach us today about the old ways

cherokee_greg
11-15-2011, 11:48 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 15





"Our Spiritual belief is that we were created as part of the land - so our identity, our names, and our songs are all tied to the land."



-- Chief Roderick Robinson, NISGA'A



In the traditional way, the names of native people had great meaning. We even had naming ceremonies. The naming of someone was very important and had great significance because it was tied to the Earth. The identity of each member and the teachings of the songs were all tied to Mother Earth. We need to know these teachings from our culture. This knowledge will help us heal the people.


My Maker, today help me find my identity.

cherokee_greg
11-16-2011, 11:37 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 16





"We do not want riches, but we want to train our children right. Riches would do us no good. We could not take them with us to the other world. We do not want riches, we want peace and love."



-- Red Cloud, OGLALA LAKOTA



The Elders say that what is important is peace and love. To have material things is okay, but if not, that's okay too. To have peace and love is more important than anything material. Our children will see the value of peace and love only if adults show they are a priority. Too often we think we can offer material things and they will replace the time spent with our children. But the most important way to give our children peace and love is to spend time with them.


My Creator, give me Your peace and love today.

cherokee_greg
11-17-2011, 08:56 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 17





"Humbleness means peace and honesty -- both mean Hopi. True, honest, perfect words -- that's what we call Hopi words. In all languages, not just in Hopi. We strive to be Hopi. We call ourselves Hopi because maybe one or two of us will become Hopi. Each person must look into their heart and make changes so that you may become Hopi when you reach your destination."



-- Percy Lomaquahu, HOPI



The Creator has made available to us all the laws, principles and values which we need to know to live in harmony. The Creator also designed each human being to learn and grow by trial and error. We have tools to help us live the right way. We have prayers, visions, nature, teachers, Elders, and we have the Great Spirit to talk to and ask for help when we have problems. We also have choice. To walk the Red Road takes courage and a lot of prayer.


Creator, give me courage to walk the Red Road.

cherokee_greg
11-18-2011, 09:06 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 18
"Power is not manifested in the human being. True power is in the Creator."
-- Oren Lyons, ONONDAGA
The Old Ones say the only true power is spiritual power. Sometimes our egos tell us we have power but really we don't. Great Spirit power is called by other names such as love, forgiveness, intelligence, life, principles, and laws. When the Creator uses this power to make the human being powerful, we must stay humble. We should constantly acknowledge that we are who we are. We do what we do because of the power of the Great One.

Great One, guide me to use Your power well. I will use it only to serve the people.

cherokee_greg
11-19-2011, 01:22 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 19
Where there is vision, the people live. They are made rich in the things of the spirit; and then, as the logical next step, they are rich in human life.
-- Phil Lane, Sr., YANKTON SIOUX
Since the beginning of time, Indian people have been blessed with the ability and knowledge of the vision. The vision determines our future. The concept is, we move toward and become that which we think about. We have known that all visions are about the Great Spirit. They should include God's will in every area of our lives. We should have visions about our people, about healthy relationships, about helping others, about being happy, about being educated. Each day we should renew our vision. We should ask the Creator to give us a vision of what He wants us to be and where He wants us to go in our lives. We should be the seekers of vision.

Great Spirit, give me a vision to follow today. Let me do Your will.

cherokee_greg
11-20-2011, 02:10 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 20
"Money cannot buy affection."
-- Mangas Coloradas, APACHE
In these modern times we put too much emphasis on material things and on money. We believe that money is power. If we have money, people will respect us. If we have money, people will admire us. If we have money, we can have anything we want. Maybe we can purchase anything in the material world, but we cannot purchase anything in the Unseen World. The Unseen World is not for sale. It can only be given away. Love, affection, admiration, trust, respect, commitment -- these must be earned or given away. If we use these things from the Unseen World, we are using real power.

My Creator, let me demonstrate Your power today. Let me be loving to all I meet.

cherokee_greg
11-21-2011, 07:17 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 21
"In the absence of the sacred, nothing is sacred, everything is for sale."
-- Oren Lyons, ONONDAGA
The Elders often say that when something is sacred it has spiritual value. You'll hear, on the Earth there are sacred spots. You'll hear, our ceremonies are sacred, our children are sacred, marriage is sacred. When something is sacred it means it's so holy you can't attach a value to it. Therefore, it's not for sale. It's an insult to suggest buying something sacred. On the other hand, if we look at it differently, as there is no sacred land, ceremonies are not sacred, our children are not sacred, etc., then everything is for sale. Sacredness creates spiritual space. Sacredness makes things holy. Sacredness shows respect for God.

Great Spirit, let me honor things that are sacred.

cherokee_greg
11-22-2011, 11:24 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 22
"It's the most precious thing...to know absolutely where you belong. There's a whole emotional wrapping-around-of-you here. You see the same rock, tree, road, clouds, sun -- you develop a nice kind of intimacy with the world around you. To be intimate is to grow, to learn...[it] is absolutely fulfilling. Intimacy, that's my magic word for why I live here."
-- Tessie Maranjo, SANTA CLARA PUEBLO
Every human being, to be mentally healthy, must have the feeling of belonging. When we have a sense of belonging we can be intimate. We can feel. We can connect. If we cannot develop this feeling of belonging, then we will feel lost of disconnected. To be disconnected from life is like walking around during the day not knowing the Sun exists. To have the feelings of intimacy is warm, glowy, joyful, loving, and connected. The feeling this Elder is talking about is available to everyone.

Great Spirit, let me be intimate.

cherokee_greg
11-23-2011, 11:31 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - November 23
"We're sitting on our blessed Mother Earth from which we get our strength and determination, love and humility, all the beautiful attributes that we've been given. So turn to one another; love one another; respect one another; respect Mother Earth; respect the waters-because that's life itself!"
-- Phil Lane, Sr. YANKTON SIOUX
Our entire point of view can be altered by making one change to align with the principles of the Great Spirit. Let's say we decide to become respectful. As we become respectful, our attitude will change. We will automatically draw into our lives knowledge about the other principles of the Great Spirit such as love, appreciation, trust, beauty, and peace of mind. By focusing on these principles, we will let go of selfishness, self centeredness, self pity, dishonesty, and fear. You focus on respect, you get respect; you focus on love, you get love; you focus on the Red Road, you get peace of mind.

Great Spirit, let me learn the lessons of respect.

cherokee_greg
11-25-2011, 01:33 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day November 25



"People and nations who understand the Natural Law are self-governing, following the principles of love and respect that insure freedom and peace."





--Traditional Circle of Elders, NAVAJO-HOPI Joint Use Area



The Natural Laws work hand-in-hand with the circle. Each part of a circle will look to the center and will see something different. For example, if you put an irregular shaped object in the center of a circle and you have people standing in a circle around the object, each one will describe it differently. Everyone in the circle will be right. Only by honoring and respecting everyone's input, can the truth about the object be revealed. We need to learn to honor differences.


My Creator, let me honor all differences.

Jack Daw
11-25-2011, 06:24 PM
Each part of a circle will look to the center and will see something different. For example, if you put an irregular shaped object in the center of a circle and you have people standing in a circle around the object, each one will describe it differently. Everyone in the circle will be right.
That's a very nice example. One that I will happily spread further. Thanks. :nanadrink:

cherokee_greg
11-27-2011, 12:34 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day November 27



"The Natural Law is a spiritual law. Its powers are both light and dark."





--Oren R. Lyons, Spokesman Traditional Circle of Elders



There are some characteristics that are evident in the system which the Creator made. He made balance, harmony, and polarity. In other words, every (+) plus has a (-) minus. Every positive has a negative; every up has a down; every problem has a solution. The Spiritual Law is the same - it has light and dark. Both are good, so both need to be honored. Lessons can be learned on both sides.


Great Spirit, teach me the powers of the Natural Laws

cherokee_greg
11-28-2011, 11:39 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day November 28



"People say that crisis changes people and turns ordinary people into wiser or more responsible ones."





--Wilma Mankiller, CHEROKEE



There is a saying, conflict precedes clarity. The Medicine Wheel teachings say, in order for something to change it must first go through a struggle. When a crisis enters our lives, other powers are there to help us. We will learn some lessons. Will I honor and respect the next crisis?


Great Spirit, if a crisis occurs today, let me learn the lessons of wisdom.

cherokee_greg
11-29-2011, 11:20 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day November 29



"Life, the circle, a measurement with no beginning and no end."





--Phillip Deere, MUSKOGEE-CREEK



The circle teaches us how the Creator made things and how to live. It teaches us how we should look at creation. Life travels in a circle. In the East is the baby, to the South is the youth, in the West is the adult and in the North is the Elder. Then we return to the Earth Mother to start the cycle again. We observe what is `around us' from the center of the circle. This develops our point of view. We must be careful not to become self-centered.


Great Spirit, let me observe life from the circle's point of view.

cherokee_greg
11-30-2011, 03:26 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day November 30



"Someone must speak for them. I do not see a delegation for the four footed. I see no seat for eagles. We forget and we consider ourselves superior, but we are after all a mere part of the Creation."





--Oren Lyons, ONONDAGA



Whenever we make decisions, we need to look around to see who would be affected. If we change the course of a river, who, what will be affected? If we put poison on the gardens, who, what will be affected? If wee cut the trees and too many are cut, who, what will be affected? We need to become aware of the consequences of our actions. We need to pay attention to our thoughts. We are accountable to our children to leave the Earth in good shape.


My Creator, help me make right decisions

oakshadows
11-30-2011, 04:30 PM
Hopefully more will realize the truth of that staterment. If we keep on removing things from our environment then we lose something everytime. Lift the hood on your car, remove one wire. It may run and you may not notice anything, but keerp doing this and soon it will quit. All should help save as much of our environment as we can. It's a lovely place to live, and we need it.

cherokee_greg
12-01-2011, 01:22 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day December 1

"Sometimes dreams are wiser then waking."

--Black Elk (Hehaka Sapa), OGLALA

The Great Spirit has many ways of communicating with the human being. He talks to us through the five senses; sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. For example, we can observe nature and see a lesson or get an answer. These five senses function primarily in the physical world. But we also have the ability to receive communication from the Unseen World. To do this we have a sixth sense. It comes in the form of dreams, imagination, intuition, inspiration, or a hunch. Along with the dream or intuitive thought there is a feeling, a knowing. We just know it's true without the need for proof. We need to pay attention to our dreams and intuition. Don't cast them off as being silly or useless. Be respectful to our dreams and feelings.


Creator, if you speak to me through dreams, let me know it in terms I can understand.

cherokee_greg
12-03-2011, 12:30 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day December 3



"Listen to the howl of our spiritual brother, the wolf, for how it goes with him, so it goes for the natural world."





--Oren R. Lyons, Spokesman, Traditional Circle of Elders



If we watch nature, we can tell a lot about what is going on in the world. The animals and the plants are great teachers. Some time ago, crops were sprayed with a poison to kill the insects. Other animals ate the insects. The small animals were eaten by the Eagles and the Wolves. We live in an interconnected system. What we do to one, we do to all. If our spiritual brothers are living in balance, chances are we humans are also living in balance.


Great Spirit, let me listen to my Earth teachers, the plants and the animals.

cherokee_greg
12-05-2011, 08:18 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day December 5



"I've had a long regard for generational things: pottery, cultural things, participation in dancing, and extended family. Only in that way does culture survive; only in that way is culture active.





--Tessie Naranjo, SANTA CLARA PUEBLO



Culture teaches us how to live and it ensures that knowledge about life is handed down from generation to generation. Culture gives us the feeling of belonging. It helps us raise our family in a good way. It teaches us how to treat one another. Culture sets boundaries for societies. We need to develop our culture. If we have left our culture, then we need to come back to it. Culture leads us back to the Great Spirit. Sometimes in our lives, we leave what we know works and experiment with something else. Then we get into trouble. So we need to come back home. Indian people are lucky to have a culture to return to.


Creator, thank you for the culture. Let me live it today

cherokee_greg
12-07-2011, 12:43 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day December 7



"A man should rely on his own resources; the one who so trains himself is ready for any emergency."





--Oral Tradition, OMAHA



Man is designed to function independently and to rely on the Creator for his resources. If we build our relationship with the Great Spirit, we are ready when emergencies occur. We need to build a trusting relationship with the Creator. We do this by constantly talking with the Creator. It's good to talk to Him many times a day. Then we will realize, even though we can't see Him, that He is always with us and He is ready to respond to our requests.


God, let me remember to talk to You many times today.

cherokee_greg
12-10-2011, 12:13 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 8
"We as men should not fear our mates; we should listen to their counsel."
-- Oren R. Lyons, Spokesman, Traditional Circle of Elders
The Elders say the men should look at women in a sacred way. The men should never put women down or shame them in any way. When we have problems, we should seek their counsel. We should share with them openly. A woman has intuitive thought. She has access to another system of knowledge that few men develop. She can help us understand. We must treat her in a good way.

Great Spirit, let me look upon the woman in a good way.

cherokee_greg
12-10-2011, 12:17 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 9
"The Natural Law will prevail regardless of man-made laws, tribunals, and governments."
-- Traditional Circle of Elders, NAVAJO-HOPI Joint Use Area
The Great Spirit made Laws by which Man needs to live. These Laws are just and are about living in harmony. Man has passed many laws that say it is okay to do things. Many of these man-made laws are out of harmony with the Laws of the Great Spirit. These man-made laws will cause trouble for the human being if they are out of harmony with the Laws of the Creator.

Great Spirit, teach me Your Laws.

cherokee_greg
12-10-2011, 12:19 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 10
"Come forward and join hands with us in this great work for the Creator."
-- Traditional Circle of Elders, NORTHERN CHEYENNE
The Elders have spent years learning to pray and communicate with the Great Spirit. Their job is to pass this knowledge onto the young people. The Elders have told us we are now in a great time of healing. The Creator is guiding them to help the young people figure this out. We must get involved and participate. We should pray and see what it is the Great Spirit wants us to do. We need to sacrifice our time to help the people and to be of maximum use to the Creator. Every person is needed to accomplish this great healing.

Creator, whisper what You want me to do.

cherokee_greg
12-12-2011, 11:59 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 11
"Peace... comes within the souls of men when they realize their relationship, their oneness, with the universe and all its powers, and when they realize that at the center of the Universe dwells Wakan-Tanka, and that this center is really everywhere, it is within each of us."
-- Black Elk (Hehaka Sapa) OGLALA SIOUX
If we are to know peace we must look within ourselves. In order to do this, we must learn to be still. We must quiet the mind. We must learn to meditate. Meditation helps us locate and find the center that is within ourselves. The center is where the Great One resides. When we start to look for peace, we need to realize where it is within ourselves. When we experience conflict we need to pause for a moment and ask the Power within ourselves, "How do you want me to handle this? What would you suggest I do in this situation?" By asking the High Power for help we find peace.

Creator, help me to find peace.

cherokee_greg
12-12-2011, 12:01 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 12
"In order for our children to survive in the world, they need a firm understanding and belief in the basic principles of sharing freedom and respect of individuality."
-- Haida Gwaii, Traditional Circle of Elders
There is a saying: Tell me, I'll forget; Show me, I'll remember; Engage me; I'll understand. The adults need to determine what the younger generation is learning. The principle of sharing keeps the youth from being greedy and selfish. The principle of freedom teaches the youth about choices, decisions and consequences. The principle of respect keeps us from playing God and becoming a controller of all things. We need to learn these lessons so we may demonstrate them for our children.

Great Teacher, help me to understand Your principles.

cherokee_greg
12-13-2011, 01:01 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 13
"In our language there is no word to say inferior or superiority or equality because we are equal; it's a known fact. But life has become very complicated since the newcomers came here. And how does your spirit react to it?. It's painful. You have to be strong to walk through the storm. I know I'm a bridge between two worlds. All I ask is for people to wash their feet before they try to walk on me."
-- Alanis Obomsawin, ABENAKI
For native people who speak their language, English can be very confusing. Many times you cannot express in English the true meaning of Indian words. When we hear something in English we sometimes react or our spirit reacts. Sometimes we need to use English words out of order to express our true meanings. We need to be patient and pray. Living in two worlds can be difficult. Life is painful sometimes. The pain of life is where the lessons are learned.

Creator, let me learn the lessons You have taught my people.

cherokee_greg
12-14-2011, 01:21 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 13
"In our language there is no word to say inferior or superiority or equality because we are equal; it's a known fact. But life has become very complicated since the newcomers came here. And how does your spirit react to it?. It's painful. You have to be strong to walk through the storm. I know I'm a bridge between two worlds. All I ask is for people to wash their feet before they try to walk on me."
-- Alanis Obomsawin, ABENAKI
For native people who speak their language, English can be very confusing. Many times you cannot express in English the true meaning of Indian words. When we hear something in English we sometimes react or our spirit reacts. Sometimes we need to use English words out of order to express our true meanings. We need to be patient and pray. Living in two worlds can be difficult. Life is painful sometimes. The pain of life is where the lessons are learned.

Creator, let me learn the lessons You have taught my people.

cherokee_greg
12-14-2011, 06:15 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 14
"Male and female is fundamental to life; partners in work to be done."
-- Oren R. Lyons, Spokesman, Traditional Circle of Elders
The Great Spirit created a system which would allow us to reproduce, to have companionship, to love, to laugh, to cry, and be happy. Man and Woman each have gifts the other doesn't have. But, together they have these gifts to share with each other. The Great Spirit made it this way. So let us treat each other with respect. Let us look upon each other in a sacred way.

Grandfather, Grandmother, bring the spirits to teach us

cherokee_greg
12-15-2011, 01:30 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day December 15



"People are equal partners with the plants and animals, not their masters who exploit them."





--Haida Gwaii, Traditional Circle of Elders



As human beings, we are not above anything nor are we below anything. Because of being equal, we need to discuss a little about the value of respect. Not just respect when it comes to human beings, but respect when it comes to everything. We are not masters over things; we are caretakers for the Great Spirit. We need to treat all things with respect.


Great Spirit, let me accept and see all things as equal.

cherokee_greg
12-16-2011, 12:28 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - December 15
"People are equal partners with the plants and animals, not their masters who exploit them."
-- Haida Gwaii, Traditional Circle of Elders
As human beings, we are not above anything nor are we below anything. Because of being equal, we need to discuss a little about the value of respect. Not just respect when it comes to human beings, but respect when it comes to everything. We are not masters over things; we are caretakers for the Great Spirit. We need to treat all things with respect.

cherokee_greg
01-01-2012, 09:57 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - January 1
".because if you believe in something, and believe in it long enough, it will come into being."
-- Rolling Thunder, CHEROKEE
We are created by the Great One to accomplish His will through our mental pictures or visions. Our thoughts are three dimensional: words, pictures and feelings. We create the vision by thinking the words and we create feeling for the vision by feeling enthusiasm, desire, commitment and other strong beliefs. Once we create the vision, we move toward and become like that which we think about. All visions are tested by our self talk; for example, "This isn't going to happen, where is the money coming from anyway?" When this happens, we need to let go of the test and focus on belief in the vision. Why? Because God said if we believe it long enough, He will guarantee it!!!

Great One, let my beliefs be strong today. Help me to have faith in my visions.

cherokee_greg
01-02-2012, 03:11 PM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - January 2
"People have to be responsible for their thoughts, so they have to learn to control them. It may not be easy, but it can be done."
-- Rolling Thunder, CHEROKEE
We control our thoughts by controlling our self talk. At any moment we choose we can talk to ourselves differently. The fight comes with the emotions that are attached to our thoughts. If our emotion is high and seems to be out of control, we can say to ourselves STOP IT!, take a few deep breaths, then ask the Creator for the right thought or the right decision or the right action. If we practice this for a while, our thought life will be different. It helps if in the morning we ask God to direct our thinking. God loves to help us.

Great Spirit, today, direct my thinking so my choices are chosen by You.

cherokee_greg
01-06-2012, 08:02 PM
lder's Meditation of the Day - January 6
"When we're through with this earth and all these problems, we don't have to come back. But as long as we're here we have a job to do and a purpose to fulfill, and that means dealing with the circumstances around us."
-- Rolling Thunder, CHEROKEE
We are put on the earth to participate in life. We have a beautiful mind, we have the ability to pray, we have the ability to change, we have the ability to accept, and we have choices. All things God created are constantly changing. This constant change causes our circumstances to change. Sometimes we say life is difficult. During these times we need to use our tools: the tools of prayer, and the tools of meditation. We are designed to change and live joyfully on this earth. The only requirement for living joyfully is to live according to the laws, principles, and values given to us by the Creator.

Great Spirit, give me Your courage today, and guide my footsteps.

cherokee_greg
01-07-2012, 11:32 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - January 7
"When we become hollow bones there is no limit to what the Higher Powers can do in and through us in spiritual things."
-- Frank Fools Crow, LAKOTA
If we want to be of maximum use to the Creator, we must ready ourselves to do so. if we are to become a channel for His purposes, we must prepare ourselves to do so. If we have resentment, fear, selfishness, or anger, we are not hollow bones. We must be rid of these things. We must change ourselves. We must ask for forgiveness for ourselves and forgive our brothers and sisters. We must keep our insides clean. We cannot use our power in a good way when we have blockages such as hate, judgement, and envy. When we are free of these things the Higher Powers can use us beyond our wildest imagination. Then we can really help ourselves and help our people. Only when we are hollow bones can we have an effect on the world.

Oh Great Spirit, remove from me the things that block my usefulness to You. Remove from my day all thinking that is out of harmony with Your ways. Grant me Your peace and allow me to function as a hollow bone.

cherokee_greg
01-08-2012, 11:17 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - January 8
"Native Americans are essentially calling for righteousness. By this they mean a shared ideology developed by all people using their purest and most unselfish minds."
-- Lorraine Canoe/Tom Porter, MOHAWK
The Native way is to first focus on decisions that will be good for the people and then for yourself. Righteousness means "to think right." Our way is to consider the good of all first. This helps our minds to be unselfish and pure. This it he spiritual way. This can be very hard to do because the world we live in says to take care of yourself first. A man of God cannot be taken advantage of unless it is the will of the Creator. The Creator really controls everything. To have a good future, the people must gather in a circle and pray for the highest good for the people.

Great Mystery, today let me love instead of being loved. Let me be giving instead of receiving. Show me the advantages of having a giving heart.

nannerfunboi
01-08-2012, 11:43 AM
much thanks greg!! :)
ive been reading more (since its winter here ..sigh) on
keeping ourselves "current" "relevant" i find as i get caught up
in all the stuff of life..i get side tracked..LOL
i sure appreciate your posts/quotes here.. they have been very
helpful and thought povoking for me..
:) much thanks greg..
and great to see ya again
:goteam:

cherokee_greg
01-09-2012, 10:46 AM
Elder's Meditation of the Day - January 9
"So, with the Native way, it's not whether people find out about what you've done or not... that's not nearly as strong as having your source of morality within you, having your morality arise out of an inner perception of what is wrong, ridiculous, or shameful. You are your own judge."
-- Eunice Baumann-Nelson, Ph.D., PENOBSCOT
Inside each of us is a voice. It is a quiet voice. It is a guiding voice. If we listen for it, it will guide us, and help us avoid disaster. It is especially active when we are afraid, when we are in doubt, when we are scared, when we need help, and when we get angry. If we are excited emotionally, it is hard to hear this voice. If we are angry, it's hard to hear this voice because it is usually quiet. The best thing we can do is to practice getting quiet. If we don't get quiet, there is another voice called the judge. It tells us to attack or say bad things to other people or to judge ourselves. This voice is loud and usually gets us into trouble.

Creator, Great Mystery, help me listen for the quiet voice. Let me know this voice of Yours. Your ways are gentle. Guide me with this voice. Thank you.