What Am I Learning

"What new thing will you learn about God and Jesus while on this path? How will this grow your understanding (I believe it absolutely will)? I just want to know if you have an idea of how yet?"

Very interesting.
There are two passages that came to my mind and have been rattling in my brain. I really should do justice and go back and read these passages in their entirety, in context and word study them, but these two simple things keep coming to my head, nonetheless.

1 I have other sheep than these

2 there are many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written in detail, even the world itself would not contain the books that would be written.

I have been struggling with salvation, in that my reading of the Holy Bible tells me that I must come through Christ. YET, I have met and know some very kind, wonderful people who appear to be spirit led. They have the fruits of the spirit about them, yet know not what that is. They pray to God, yet not through Christ. The written word tells me that those people are condemned, yet it is Gods desire that none should perish. I met non christians that are better christians than I. While I have salvation through Christ, does their love of God goes unnoticed, unrewarded? I used to be OK with the scripted answer. Now I'm not sure.

I was overwhelmed by the teachings of an Ojibway elder who appeared to have a better grasp of Gods love and relationship than I. I sensed the Holy Spirit and felt safe with what the elder said.

While I am not willing to give up that which I have learned because I beleive it to be the word of God in me, I am no longer able or willing to stand in condenmnation or judgement of others for what they believe. I have learned that My God is bigger and more mysterious than I ever imagined. I also trust and believe that He will deal with all people in His way, on His time and free of the perceptions I have....thank Goodness.

Sounds wishy washy of me, to say that my only hope for salvation is through Christ yet also say that God offers salvation to others in differant ways. One might say that the progressive revelation will eventually lead all people to Christ as would be my hope, yet one might say that there are many ways to God.

I guess what I am developing is perhaps a spirit that will allow me to accept the reality of God in me, yet not using that to judge or gage others. Interesting passage that speaks to me....

So Peter seeing him, said to Jesus, "Lord, and what about this man?"
Jesus said to him, "If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!"

So now I am asking and telling and reminding myself: "Lord, what about this man?.....If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!" I will follow Him, yet I will be less worried, less guarded, less opinionated, less judgemental. I will let God rule and let Him reign. I will be obedient to His calling for me to love others.... Simple. I will let Him look after His people while I concentrate on what I beleive He expects of me.

In the meantime, my spirit tells me to keep learning the Anishinaabe way. My spirit leads me to seek our oneness, not our differance. My spirit tells me that I can learn a lot about God through a chosen people such as these. My spirit tells me I can honor and cherish the truths taught to me by others. My spirit tells me that God alone is the author of truth. God is also the ruler and creator of science.

So here is the final kicker. I beleive that the complete Holy Bible continues to be written to this very day. Contained in the complete Holy Bible will be Gods full expression to and from all His creation. The complete Holy Bible will contain more than just 66 books. The final edition Holy Bible will contain 7 times 70 books, written in every language, every culture and every people, as one by one, the entire world comes to a knowledge of Him and in the end.....EVERY humble knee shall bow.

I will be bowing beside my native brother who will be bowing beside my muslim friend who will be bowing beside my Sveik friend, who will be bowing beside my Jewish friend, who will be bowing beside my Budhist friend. ALL knees will bow. Dont ask me how. Dont ask me to explain it cause I cant. I just know that God has a plan of salvation and that on that day it will be completely revealed and I will be very surprised at who I do and do not see.

Did I actually answer the question?

Words Well Taken

Thankyou for the comments on my last post.
As always, RR makes me think.
I will also answer the question....its just that it seems to be an answer that is ever evolving.

I especially wanted to thank anonymous for this comment:

"be careful...don't fall into that trap...you are better than that..remember we are all one,,lets connect with love and peace in our hearts"

You are 100% correct! Thankyou!

I dont need to harbour resentment or anger in my heart.
I have been taught the way of peace and reconcilliation, not anger and confrontation.
As I think back on my writing the post, I was angry, and then I turned to the place an angry heart goes...... I attacked someone else. The very thing that this "I am Canadian" rant was doing.

This was partially on purpose to display how this anger in turn is inflicted on others,
YET, I have to admit I felt clever, I felt powerful, I felt righteous in my unrighteousness.
And therein lies the trap. Hate in my heart will consume me too!

I dont want to be that person. I do not need to use angry language. I dont need to accuse others. I dont want any of that "junk". I want a pure heart. I want to be what the creator intended me to be and I want for Him to be glorified by me.

I need to constantly weigh and measure my actions against what I know or feel to be correct. Why is it so hard? Why is it so easy to stray?

Any way, thank you anonymous, I appreciate comments that are affirming, positive, yet truthful. These are words that truly will help me in a positive way.

don

If it smells like turd, looks like turd and tastes like turd....

I have had this rant sent to me by a number of people now. It has the appearance of being wise, yet it is disguised bigotry and truly an example of how sheltered and uninformed people are. I have decided that from now on, when people send me this tripe, I will respond by sending them the Anishinaabe Code of Conduct. I will post that next.

I am beginning to think that Mr "I am Canadian", isnt actually Canadian. In fact, I'd be willing to bet his grandparents are from Europe, or perhaps Mr "I am Canadian" is actually American!.... But there I go.....now I'm just as bad!


I AM CANADIAN- author unknown

I am in the minority in Calgary, Vancouver, Toronto and every casino in this country.

I was born in the forties, fifties or sixties, yet I am somehow responsible for some First Nations people being screwed out of their land in the 1700's!

I pay import tax on cars made in Ontario.

I am allowed to sky dive and smoke, but not allowed to drive without a seat belt.

All the money I make until mid July must go to paying taxes.

I live and work among people who believe Americans are ignorant ... yet these same people cannot name this country's new territory.

On April 1st, 1999, the map of Canada changed for the first time in 50 years with the creation of Nunavut Territory. The Northwest Territories was split and approximately 2 million square kilometres of the central and eastern arctic became 'Nunavut'.

Although I am sometimes forced to live on hamburgers and don't have a pot to pee in, I sleep well knowing that my taxes helped purchase a nice six figure home in Vancouver for some unskilled refugee.

Although they are unpatriotic and constantly try to separate, Quebec still provides most of my nation's Prime Ministers.

95% of my nation's international conflicts are over fish.

I'm supposed to call black people African Canadians, although I'm sure none of them have ever been to Africa for that matter.

I am being told that paying a 200% tax on alcohol is fair.

I am also being told that the same tax on gasoline is also fair.

Even if I have no idea what happened to that old rifle my Grandfather gave me when I was 14, I will be considered a criminal if I don't register it.

I am being told that spending $15 billion to promote the French language in the rest of Canada is fair when the province of Quebec doesn't support or recognize the English language.

I am being told that paying $1million for 3 Stripes ('The Voice of Fire painting in Ottawa) by the National Art Gallery was a good purchase, even though 99% of this country didn't want it or will ever see it.

When I look at my pension and realize that I take home a third of what I actually make, I say 'Oh well, at least we have better health care than the Americans..'

I must bail out farmers when their crops are too wet or too dry because I control the rain.
I must bail out big corporations who drive their business into the ground and say yeah that's OK when they move all their manufacturing plants and jobs to a third world country and say no problem..

My National Anthem has versions in both official languages.

Canada is the highest taxed nation in North America, the biggest military buffer for the United States, and the number one destination for fleeing terrorists.

I am not an angry white male. I am an angry taxpayer who is broke. I am Canadian!!!

- author unknown

Sacred Seven Grandfathers Teachings - Rick Beaver

SACRED SEVEN GRANDFATHERS TEACHINGS
"Mishoomis O-Kah-Key-Qway-Win"
wisdom-respect-love-honesty-bravery-humility-truth
http://ronniebeaver.myknet.org/

This is a great site for lots of in depth information on customs and teachings

Seven Grandfathers

The Creator gave seven Grandfathers,

who were very powerful spirits,

the responsibility to watch over the people.

The Grandfathers saw that people were living a hard life.

They sent their helper to spend time amongst the people

and find a person who could be taught how to live in harmony with Creation.

Their helper went to the four directions to find a person

worthy enough to bring to the Grandfathers.
While the boy was travelling with Otter

they were visited seven times by spirits who told them about the gifts.

Here is what they said:

To cherish knowledge is to know wisdom;

To know love is to know peace;

To honour all of Creation is to have respect;

Bravery is to face the foe with integrity;

Honesty in facing a situation is to be brave;

Humility is to know your self as a sacred part of Creation;

Truth is to know all of these things.

Otter returned to his friend, who,

because of all the time spent in the spirit world,

was now an old man.

The Old Man gathered all the people around

and told them of his journey to the Seven Grandfather's lodge.

He explained how to use the gifts.

He explained that the opposite of any of the gifts would lead to ruin.

He gave them the understanding of opposites.

It was now up to the people to follow the path laid out before them.

The Old Man gave them all they needed for the development of the spiritual side of life.

Excerpts from the "Mishomis Book: Voice of the Ojibway,"

Seven Grandfathers Teachings

Seven Grandfathers Teachings from Wikipedia.....

Nibwaakaawin
—To cherish knowledge is to know Wisdom.
Wisdom is given by the Creator to be used for the good of the people. In the Anishinaabe language, this word espresses not only "wisdom," but also means "prudence," or "intelligence." In some communities, Gikendaasowin is used; in addition to "wisdom," this word can also mean "intelligence" or "knowledge."

Zaagi'idiwin
—To know Love is to know peace.
Love must be unconditional. When people are weak they need love the most. In the Anishinaabe language, this word with the reciprocal theme /idi/ indicates that this form of love is mutual. In some communities, Gizhaawenidiwin is used, which in most context means "jealousy" but in this context is translated as either "love" or "zeal". Again, the reciprocal theme /idi/ indicates that this form of love is mutual.

Minaadendamowin
—To honor all creation is to have Respect.
All of creation should be treated with respect. You must give respect if you wish to be respected. Some communities instead use Ozhibwaadenindiwin or Manazoonidiwin.

Aakode'ewin
—Bravery is to face the foe with integrity.
In the Anishinaabe language, this word literally means "state of having a fearless heart." To do what is right even when the consequences are unpleasant. Some communities instead use either Zoongadikiwin ("state of having a strong casing") or Zoongide'ewin ("state of having a strong heart").

Gwayakwaadiziwin
—Honesty in facing a situation is to be brave.
Always be honest in word and action. Be honest first with yourself, and you will more easily be able to be honest with others. In the Anishinaabe language, this word can also mean "righteousness."

Dabaadendiziwin
—Humility is to know yourself as a sacred part of Creation.
In the Anishinaabe language, this word can also mean "compassion." You are equal to others, but you are not better. Some communities instead express this with Bekaadiziwin, which in addition to "humility" can also be translated as "calmness," "meekness," "gentility" or "patience."

Debwewin
—Truth is to know all of these things.
Speak the truth. Do not deceive yourself or others.

Seven Grandfathers

kina gegoo (all things in life)

I found this great website where I have been doing a lot of learning. It is called kina gegoo and means "all things in life". It appears to be written by a teacher for his students. A salute the work he is doing and he is teaching more than just them, as I have become a virtual student. Here is what he has to say about the Seven Grandfathers. I will be studying the seven grandfathers for a while as I beleive they are important and significant Ojibway teachings.

Seven Grandfathers according to kina gigoo....

Seven Grandfathers - Truth
Truth - Debwewin
Truth is to know all of the Seven Grandfathers. Some of the other Teachings from this Grandfather include : to have a genuine interest in learning; to be loyal in our human relationships; the state or character of being true in relation to being, knowledge or speech; know and understand our children/ student's growth and development as it pertains to all of the Seven Teachings of the Seven Grandfathers.

Seven Grandfathers - Honesty
Honesty - Gwekwaadziwin
Honesty in facing a situation is to be brave. To have personal qualities in truthfulness, sincerity and fairness; to know how to manage confidential information; respect the inner workings and difficulties of a school setting; know how to apply an evaluation strategy; know how to communicate results of feedback.

Seven Grandfathers - Bravery
Bravery - Aakde'win
Bravery is to face the foe with integrity. Some of the Teachings from this Grandfather include : to have courage and face difficult situations; to acknowledge the ability to go deeper into self awareness; to be strong and achieve completeness in our personal and professional development; to have self-assurance; to identify professional development needs and undertake to meet them; demonstrate ability to take initiative; maintain self-awareness- manage personal needs, feelings and values; demonstrate awareness and understanding of own attitudes and values in the learning process.

Seven Grandfathers - Humility
Humility - Dbadendizwin
Humility means understanding that every person and every living thing is a small part of a larger creation. Some of the Teachings connected to Humility include : to be modest in our actions; to have sensitivity towards others; to be respectful of our students' preferred ways of doing things; to recognize yourself as a sacred and equal part of the Creation; develop self-awareness on personal strengths and limitations; know you have the capacity for growth and change; develop listening and observation skills.

Seven Grandfathers - Love
Love - Zaagidwin
Love is a powerful feeling involving respect, trust, caring, humility, wisdom and courage - family is a good place for love to start. Some of the Teachings from this grandfather include : To know love is to know peace. To know how to get along with others and work with people; to have the capacity for caring; to show kindness and cooperation; to apply values of acceptance and empowerment; demonstrate capacity to offer hope and effective support; a desire for harmony and well being in interpersonal relations.

Seven Grandfathers - Respect
Respect - Mnaadendiwin
Respect means having special consideration for all things and all people- including yourself. To honor all of Creation is to have Respect. Some of the Teachings from this Grandfather include : respect for others; to accept cross cultural difference; to have a strong sense of what is right; to maintain high standards of conduct; respecting the integrity of oneself and others; form a meaningful relationship with staff, students, and others.

Seven Grandfathers : Wisdom
Wisdom - Gwekwaadziwin
Wisdom means learning from the experience of others as well as your own experiences in life. To cherish knowledge is to know Wisdom. Some of the other Teachings from this Grandfather include : to take time to reflect on everything we experience; to acknowledge the opportunity of every lesson learned; consistently seek to extend knowledge and improve skills; striving for accomplishment of our vision and our goals; to seek guidance from our Elders.

Is it Possible?

I have been studying Ojibway creation stories and creation figures. I have been reconcilling in my mind that which I have learned, and what I have always thought to be true. Its a progressive revelation that brings me closer to an understanding of this great mystery of life.

Over the years, I have developed a certain world view and personal theology based on my beleif of God through Jesus Christ. As such, I believe in one God, who is manifested in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

I beleive in one singular and almighty God, who, through His glory and power, has made himself visible and known to all nations. I beleive that Jesus Christ was and is God. While I may refer to Jesus Christ personally, I really do believe that he is in fact God. I beleive that the Holy Spirit is God. I beleive the Holy Spirit is our personal connectivity to God. I beleive the Holy Spirit is a gift from God.

Now as I apply my core beleifs with that of the Anishinaabe, I dont see much differance. They beleive in one God the Creator "Gitchee Manitou" the great mystery. They beleive that everything they have come to know and all they are was taught to them by Nanabozho, the very son of Gitchee Manitou. The Holy spirit is in all things created by God.

The only differance I see are the ways and means by which this great mystery has been honored, manifested and documented in our cultures. I have adopted the Judeo Christian world view as that is the culture in which I grew up in. I beleive that if I was born and raised Ojibway, that I would believe and follow these Ojibway teachings with all my heart.

There are many things I need to study. I think I will turn my attention to some of the practices and tenants of faith. I would like to explore various "medicines" and understand better the cultural or world view aspects. I need to better explore the concept of mother earth, medicine wheel and Grandfathers.

I am convinced that as peoples, we have much to learn from each other. I will approach my learning with humility and humbleness. I will appraoch my learning with thankfulness. I will appraoch my learning with an open mind and try to think beyond the compounds of my limited understanding. And yet I will guard the relationship and understanding I have with regards to my salvation through Jesus Christ, for that is the Word of God in me.

Is this possible? I beleive it is.

SmileyBoy

Hey! We just got this in the mail. Its a picture and report from our little "SmileyBoy" in Paraguay. This is the cutest little gaffer I ever laid eyes on! Hey he looks a lot like me when I was a kid! Do ya think Mom?

Look at the fresh water marks on his shirt. Someone smothered his face with a face cloth just before his picture was taken...."get over here you little rascal! Smile for the Camera!" And then he pulls off a smile that melts your heart.

There are children like this all over the world. The estimated number of orphans is staggering and mind boggling. It is also shameful.

$35.00 bucks a month sponsers a little child like this at Christian Childrens Fund of Canada.
Thats a buck a day. Not much when you consider the results. We have had the pleasure and blessing to support for 11 years now. When we decided to sponser another child we decided to support my brother instead, as he is doing the same type of work.

So I would like to direct you to my brothers web site actofkindness.blogspot.com. He and His family are in Kyrgysztan right now as I write this. They are providing hope and dignity to forgotten people. They are working with so many orphans and children without families. A donation of any amount would do, either one time or monthly. I prefer monthly off my credit card. Go here and you can make a differance in this world.

It Warmed my Heart

I stopped in for coffee on the way to work at the Acton Coffee Bar. I was a little later than I usually am, and the chineese lady that serves me was at the table with an elderly gentleman and a newspaper. As someone else served me, I could hear her trying to read. He was reading right along with her and coaxing and correcting her as they read together. She would get frustrated and he would begin the sentance again and she would follow. He would go silent as she read and at the first need of help, he was there. It brought me joy to see a lady trying hard to learn to read English, so that she could be better integrated with her new home. It also brought joy to see and elderly man, take the time to make a differance in someones life. In this act of community building they have brought great joy to each other. And Hey.....I bet he gets free coffee!

Winibozho/Nanabozho/Nanabush/Manabozho

I know I said I was done with Nanabozho, but I was wrong. While surfing around reading about the flood epic, I came across this interesting read. Here are a few highlights from....

When Everybody Called Me

Gah-bay-bi-nayss:"Forever-Flying-Bird"

An Ethnographic Biography of

Paul Peter Buffalo

http://www.d.umn.edu/cla/faculty/troufs/Buffalo/PB20.html

"After I got past ten years old I began feeling around and wondering how the earth and people were created.

That made me do a lot of thinking that maybe would help me in the time that was coming in my days. Before that I heard a lot of stories, a lot of talk, about the history of the Indian of this country, but I didn't meditate too much on that then. One time, later on, I finally asked one old person,

"Who is our creator?

Who is the god of the Indian in this country, the people of this country, the Anishinabe?

Who is the Indian spirit?

Who is our god?

Who is our creator?"

"Winibozho!"

Winibozho's our god."

"Why is he our God, the God of the Indians?"

Gitchie Manito, the Great God, is the one that selected Winibozho, the great man, to give the medicines to the people. He told Winibozho, "You show the people what it's for." Winibozho is the Indian medicine god, the Grand Medicine God. He's the leader. He tells stories of the history, stories of the history of medicine and everything. In the stories he tells us what to use. That's why he's our creator. He can show us the medicine. He can talk to us. He can show us the Indian way of life. He can show us what to use.

Winibozho lived a long time. He talked to the trees. He talked to anything. Winibozho could talk Sioux; he could talk anything."

Teachings

While I was surfing for creation flood stories, I came across this research paper http://www.minochige.ca/workshop/reference/nish_philosophy_intro_1.htm
I thought it might be good advice to me as I try to best understand my research.

Teachings© Copyright 1999-2009 by D’Arcy Rheault

The one unending and unchanging reality of Anishinaabe philosophy is the place and importance of Teachings. As a mainly oral culture (with some exceptions), Anishinaabe philosophy has placed all its merit on the truth found in Teachings. James Dumont, an Ojibwe scholar stresses that, If we try to understand and sensibly appreciate Native [Teachings] we must be willing, first of all, to accept that there is involved here a very special way of ‘seeing the world’. Secondly, and a necessary further step, we must make an attempt to ‘participate’ in this way of seeing’ (Miller et al.: 1992, 75Consequently, we must understand the “comprehensive, total viewing of the world and [how it] is essential for a harmony and balance amongst all of Creation” (Miller et al.: 1992, 75).
If this is the case, than any interpretation of Anishinaabe Teachings must include a comprehensive understanding of the people themselves.

Teachings not only influenced personality, society, religion, action and ethics, they also set out the proper context for a person to live in. Teachings give life meaning. Thus the Creation Teachings, from the Creation of the First Man, his going about the world and naming all that is, his life with his Grandmother, and the origin of the first family, to the story of the great flood and the Creation of the New World, holds a prescription for a person’s daily life. Without these Teachings s how would a person know how to be a good person? As such, Anishinaabe Teachings are oral reference libraries that account for stories, legends, prophesies, ceremonies, songs, dance, language and the custom of the people. Moreover, the Elder, responsible for this oral library, is as much the librarian as the library of this knowledge.

The Teachings are as alive as the person hearing them or telling them. They exist in a dynamic form, changing as life changes. Its is for this reason that Teachings are important, and it is for the same reason that we must listen to their voices.

The Creation Story – Part Two - Turtle Island (Ojibway/Anishinaabe)

Up until now, I have been focusing on the absolute beginning of creation as taught by the Anishinaabe stories. I have been comparing in my mind, that which I have been taught about creation in seven days and what I have been learning about Ojibway. I have welcomed the Ojibway teachings as they have enhanced my beleif and understanding of God. I have seen creation in a fresh way.

I then turned my research toward Nanabozho. He seems to be a "type" of Christ. Its as though they understood the majesty and yet the humanity of "God with us". Nanabozho was born of The Creators Spirit united with Woman. In and through Him all things were recreated. I have read how he became the object of scorn or ridicule. I read soemwhere he was defeated by the evil one. Incredible.

I decided that even though I wasnt really finished with Nanabozho, I would push forward to the Flood Epic. This is like the Noahs Ark account. They had a turtle and we had an ark. Salvation and Seed for the world was found in and through Noah and the Ark. Salvation and seed for the world was found in and through Nanabozho and the turtle, or Salvation and seed for the world was found in and through Nokomis and the Turtle. This is what I have learned so far. I am still reading.....

Hey...I found this great site http://www.greywolfteachinglodge.ca/teachings.htm.

This is where I got the following Flood Epic Story. This is part two of the creation story.........

Long ago, after the Great Mystery, or Gichi-Manidoo, first peopled the earth, the Anishinaabe, or Original People, strayed from their harmonious ways and began to argue and fight with one another. Brother turned against brother and soon the Anishinaabe were killing one another over hunting grounds and others disagreements. Seeing that harmony, brotherhood, sisterhood, and respect for all living things no longer prevailed on Earth, Gichi-Manidoo decided to purify the Earth. He did this with water.

The water came in the form of a great flood, or gii-mooshka'an, upon the Earth destroying the Anishinaabe people and most of the animals as well. Only Nenabozhoo, the central figure in many of the Anishinaabe oral traditions, was able to survive the flood, along with a few animals and birds who managed to swim and fly. Nenabozhoo floated on a huge log searching for land, but none was to be found as the Earth was now covered by the great flood. Nenabozhoo allowed the remaining animals and birds to take turns resting on the log as well.

Finally, Nenabozhoo spoke.

"I am going to do something," he said. "I am going to swim to the bottom of this water and grab a handful of earth. With this small bit of Earth, I believe we can create a new land for us to live on with the help of the Four Winds and Gichi-Manidoo."

So Nenabozhoo dived into the water and was gone for a long time. Finally he surfaced, and short of breath told the animals that the water is too deep for him to swim to the bottom. All were silent. Finally, Maang, the Loon spoke up. "I can dive under the water for a long way, that is how I catch my food. I will try to make it to the bottom and return with some Earth in my beak." The Loon disappeared and was gone for a very long time. Surely, thought the others, the Loon must have drowned. Then they saw him float to the surface, weak and nearly unconscious. "I couldn't make it, there must be no bottom to this water," he gasped. Then Zhingibis, the helldiver came forward and said "I will try next, everyone knows I can dive great distances." So the helldiver went under. Again, a very long time passed and the others thought he was surely drowned. At last he too floated to the surface. He was unconscious, and not till he came to could he relate to the others that he too was unable to fetch the Earth from the bottom. Many more animals tried but failed, including Zhaangweshi, the mink, and even Mikinaak, the turtle. All failed and it seemed as though there was no way to get the much needed Earth from the bottom. Then a soft muffled voice was heard. "I can do it," it spoke softly. At first no one could see who it was that spoke up. Then, the little Wazhashk, muskrat stepped forward. "I'll try," he repeated. Some of the other, bigger, more powerful animals laughed at muskrat. Nenabozhoo spoke up. "Only Gichi-Manidoo can place judgment on others. If muskrat wants to try, he should be allowed to." So, muskrat dove into the water. He was gone much longer than any of the others who tried to reach the bottom. After a while Nenabozhoo and the other animals were certain that muskrat had given his life trying to reach the bottom. Far below the water's surface, Muskrat, had in fact reached the bottom. Very weak from lack of air, he grabbed some Earth in his paw and with all the energy he could muster began to swim for the surface. One of the animals spotted Muskrat as he floated to the surface. Nenabozhoo pulled him up onto the log. "Brothers and sisters," Nenabozhoo said, "Muskrat went too long without air, he is dead." A song of mourning and praise was heard across the water as Muskrat's spirit passed on to the spirit world. Suddenly Nenabozhoo exclaimed, "Look, there is something in his paw!" Nenabozhoo carefully opened the tiny paw. All the animals gathered close to see what was held so tightly there. Muskrat's paw opened and revealed a small ball of Earth. The animals all shouted with joy. Muskrat sacrificed his life so that life on Earth could begin anew.

Nenabozhoo took the piece of Earth from Muskrat's paw. Just then, the turtle swam forward and said, "Use my back to bear the weight of this piece of Earth. With the help of Gichi-Manidoo, we can make a new Earth." Nenabozhoo put the piece of Earth on the turtle's back. Suddenly, the wind blew from each of the Four Directions. The tiny piece of Earth on the turtle's back began to grow. It grew and grew and grew until it formed a mi-ni-si', or island in the water. The island grew larger and larger, but still the turtle bore the weight of the Earth on his back. Nenabozhoo and the animals all sang and danced in a widening circle on the growing island. After a while, the Four Winds ceased to blow and the waters became still. A huge island sat in the middle of the water, and today that island is known as North America.

Traditional Indian people, including the Ojibway, hold special reverence for the turtle who sacrificed his life and made life possible for the Earth's second people. To this day, the Muskrat has been given a good life. No matter that marshes have been drained and their homes destroyed in the name of progress, the Muskrat continues to survive and multiply. The Muskrats do their part today in remembering the great flood; they build their homes in the shape of the little ball of Earth and the island that was formed from it.

Is that great or what! What an awesome description. I have seen many variations of this story. Some variations have Nokomis instead of Nanabozho. I will post more.

I am thankful too learn history as it pertains to Turtle Island and I am thankful to take this journey through the eyes of the Anishinaabe people.

meegwich

A Trip to the Whetung Gallery Curve Lake

My mom and I planned a little road trip out to Curve Lake reserve near Peterborough. I really wanted to go to the Gallery as there is also an Ojibway museum there. There is a gift shop and an excellent collection of art and craft. I have been strangely obbsessed with learning about the Ojibway and the internet just wasnt cutting it. Here is where we went: http://www.whetung.com/



We browsed for about 2 hours or so. I was mesmerized. Mom was patient and enjoyed a nice hot chocolate in front of the fire while I talked with artists and emersed my senses in native art.

© copyright Leland Bell

There is a nice collection of Leland Bell paintings. There is a very pastoral feeling in his paintings. I find them peaceful and thoughtful. Almost like stain glass. I really like this artist.

© copyright Leland Bell

We met this artist Freddy Taylor. I had a nice conversation with him. He suffered 10 years in the genocidal "Residential Schools" and then again as he couldnt adjust to his return. My senses are filled with shame for what our government did. Freddy was taken/tricked/kidnapped from his family and culture. He was kept from his family for ten years...long enough for him to lose touch with his culture and identity. He paints now to overcome his pain and anger.

This piece is painful for me to look at, but it represents Freddy's healing. One can see the tears flowing from the "mush hole" school. It flows down onto his hand. One can see the bars and chains that have weighed this man down for years. One of his paintings shoes a big X through the word apology. The government of Canada just finally gave an empty apology. I say empty because the damage that was done to our native brothers and sisters was severe nad catostrophic . It will continue to reverberate until these native people can be reconnected with their culture and heritage.

"the rage within" © copyright Freddy Taylor

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Freddy told me he was hoping to write a book. I encourage Freddy to do so. I asked my daughter what she was being taught in school. I was pleased to hear that the "residential school" issue is now seen for what it was. I sure would like for my children to know the full costs of their freedom here in Canada. I want them to be under no illusions. Our ancestors swindeled and bullyed their way to control of this land. While the Native people had a vision for a grand cooperative of great nations, my ancesestors had designed on Colonialism and control. I reject their intentions and I reclaim the the intentions of the Ojibway people. TOGETHER we build a great nation and that means RESPECT.

My Art Collection Part 16 - Nokomis

"trip to the dentist" © copyright Nokomis

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This is the limited edition print I picked up yesterday on my trip to the Whetung Gallery in Curve Lake. It is signed by the artist Nokomis. It is number 16/500 and is titled "Going to the Dentist".

Here is an incredible story on Nokomis' web site. http://www.native-art-in-canada.com/goingtothedentist.html Here she recalls the trip to the dentist. What an awesome story! I highly encourage you to read this story! It really shows the depths and strength's of a mothers love.

Peterborough Petroglyths

The Peterborough Petroglyphs are a remarkable collection of over 900 ancient images carved into crystalline limestone located near Peterborough in Ontario, Canada.

The limestone at Peterborough is generally believed to have been carved by the Algonkian people between 900 and 1400 AD. Today, the First Nations people of Ontario call the carvings Kinomagewapkong, meaning "the rocks that teach."

The area surrounding the petroglyphs was established as Petroglyphs Provincial Park in 1976.

Nanabozho/Nanabush Stories

The following are some of the many Ojibwa stories about Nanabush found at this site http://www.geocities.com/yosemite/gorge/1066/513ojibwa.htm. Here is one story regarding creation and Nanabush/Nanabozho.

In the beginning, as the Ojibwa story tellers say, the world in which we live did not exist.

Kitchi Manitou, the Great Spirit, had a dream in which he saw a world made of mountains and valleys, lakes and streams, plants and animals, and people. In his wisdom Kitchi Manitou realized that he was to bring these things into being.

He created a world made of four primary elements;

rock, water, fire and wind:

To the sun he gave the power to heat and light the earth,

To the earth he gave the power of growth and healing,

To the water he gave purity and renewal,

To the wind he gave music and the breath of life itself,

After these things Kitchi Manitou created human kind.

To them he gave the power of dream.

As the world was new, the Ojibwa people had much to learn and Kitchi Manitou took pity on them and sent them a teacher, Nanabush.

Nanabush was the son of a human mother and the West Wind spirit father. He was sent to earth to teach his people about the healing plants, about kindness, generosity, and honesty. One of Nanabush's first tasks was to name the trees, the waters, the mountains, the animals, the birds and the plants.

Nanabush had powerful magic to give special powers or attributes to the animals and plants. Nanabush was also a Trickster, bent on making humans look silly (although his own jokes often backfired on him). As a Trickster, he could change form and take the shape of an animal. The one distinguishing feature of Nanabush when he was in human form, as drawn on rocks and carved in stone by the Ojibwa, was his rabbit-like ears.

To read some more Nanabush stories go here...
http://www.geocities.com/yosemite/gorge/1066/513ojibwa.htm

Theology of Nanabozho

I found this article on Nanabozho here.

It kinda sums up what I have been learning about the significance of Nanabozho.

http://www.accessgenealogy.com/native/tribes/history/nanabozho.htm

Nanabozho.

"The demiurge of the cosmologic traditions of the Algonquian tribes, known among the various peoples by several unrelated names, based on some marked characteristic or dominant function of this personage.

Nanabozho is apparently the impersonation of life, the active quickening power of life, of life manifested and embodied in the myriad forms of sentient and physical nature. He is therefore reputed to possess not only the power to live, but also the correlative power of renewing his own life and of quickening and therefore of creating life in others.

He impersonates life in an unlimited series of diverse personalities which represent various phases and conditions of life, and the histories of the life and acts of these separate individualities fort an entire cycle of traditions and myths which, when compared one with another, are sometimes apparently contradictory and incongruous, relating, as these stories do, to the unrelated objects and subjects in nature.

The conception named Nanabozho exercises the diverse functions of many persons, and he likewise suffers their pains and needs. He is this life struggling with the ninny forms of want, misfortune, and death flint come to the bodies and beings of nature."

Nanabozho was so much like God yet so much like man. He was Holy yet unholy. He created, yet he created and destroyed. He was the object of praise, yet an object of ridicule. Many stories were told about Nanabozho, in many differant ways. Though the stories differ in description, they all gave me the same sense of God with us,.....yet stuck in humanity. I guess the description "embodiment of life" is a good one.

I get the personal sense that Nanabozho is an important part of the progressive revelation of God to the people of Turtle Island.

Culture Hero and Transformer - Nanabozho

ANISHINABE (Ojibwe)

('AnishinaAbe' Means: "From Whence He Was Lowered")
Culture Hero/Transformer: Nanabush (or Nanabozho).

This supernatural hero had a central place in Anishinabe beliefs. Nanabush organized the earth out of chaos. You see in the beginning Gehi Mnidoo (Kitchi Manitou - Great Spirit) had a powerful dream and out of that dream came the mountains, rivers, land, water, plant world and animals. Unfortunately the world as it was in the beginning was tumbled into chaos. Something had to be done.

Grandfather Sun lit the earth and caused things to grow in the bosom of Mother Earth. The water cleaned and purified, the great winds offered the breath of life and brought great change to the world. The humans the gift of dreams was given. But, they were not yet formed in a manner that they knew what to do with them. So, Kitchi Manitou sent a great teacher, Nanabush.

He was the son of the West Wind and the great grandson of the Moon. He was sent by Gehi Mnidoo to teach the Ojibwa and one of his first jobs was to name all the plants, animals. He taught the Ojibwa to fish. He also was given unique powers to help organize the world out of the chaos. Like all Culture Hero's, he was a shapeshifter, and one of his favourite guises was as Mishabooz (Great Rabbit).

Nanabush's mother died at his birth, and he was raised by his grandmother, Nokomis. Throughout his life he did many good things, and sometimes he employed subterfuge to get the job done. In this respect he was quite human using all aspects of his mental, physical, spiritual and emotional self to help put the world in order.

I found this account of Nanabozho on Shannon Thunderbirds website. Here is the link.

http://www.shannonthunderbird.com/tribal_beliefs.htm

Here is some interesting background information from Shannons site...

Some Native peoples worshiped an all-powerful, all-knowing Creator or "Master Spirit", a being that assumed a variety of forms and both genders. This concept came to be more widely accepted in post-European contact history when Native people were exposed to Christianity and its idea of a Supreme Male Being. The idea of a "Creator" was introduced, but tribal societies would not go so far as to 'gender' this entity, therefore Creator is neither male or female."

Nanabozho of the Chippewas (Ojibwa)

I found this story in a book by Ella Elizabeth Clark. It is titled "Indian Legends of Canada.

"This summary of the deeds of Nanabozho is made up of details recorded cheifly by travellers and students between 1721 and 1850. "He was sometimes referred to aas "the great light" "the spirit of light" "the great white one". The ethnologist JNB Hewitt, writing in 1912, considered him "the impersonation of life, the active, quickening power of life"

Here is part of the Nanabozho story........

Nanabozho, born on an island at the outlet of Lake Superior, was the first son of a spirit from on high and a woman on the earth. Quickly he grew to manhood. By the time his footsteps were so long that he could easily cross the widest river or lake in one step. He could seize the lightning in his hands, and his voice was like the roar of a great lake in a storm.

Nanabozho could transform himself into any animal or object of nature, and he conversed with all living creatures. After the great flood that once covered the earth, he restored the land and all that lives upon it. Then he created the first Chippewas.

As the mighty ruler of all the earth, Nanabozho controlled the weather and the seasons. He covered the earth with snow in winter and chained all the streams with ice. At his command the terrible storms broke loose from their caves. At his command also, the gentle winds blew, the mountains bacame green and the flowers of spring bloomed everywhere.

Nanabozho did many things for the people he created. He brought his people the first fire, and taught them how to make arrowheads, lances and hatchets. He taught them how to hunt, how to build canoes, how to cultuivate corn and beans and squash for food. He invented the picture writing on rocks and also learned the art of painting a face before battle. He showed the people what herbs to use for medicine. And so the Chippewas, when gathering roots, leave a small offering to Nanabozho beside the spot they found the plants.

All the knowledge which the shamans have concerning the rules and ceremonies of religion, Nanabozho received from the spirit. He built a lodge as directed;and as late as 1887 he was said to be present at the Sacred Medicine Lodge when the Grand Medicine rite was performed.

He lived a 1000 years. According to some story tellers, he was killed in a fierce battle with the Evil One and was buried on the north shore of Lake Superior. According to others, he is buried on Michipicoten Island. Others beleive that he is still alive; when they hear noises inside the mountains, they know that Nanabozho is continuing his creative work.

"Indian Legends of Canada", Ella Elizabeth Clark, McClelland and Stewart Ltd, 1960

(Jesus..is that You?)

Nanabozo

Here is a description of Nanabozo that I found at http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com/index.cfm?PgNm=TCE&Params=A1ARTA0005592

"Nanabozo (Nanabozho or Nanabush) is a mythological culture hero found in the cosmological traditions of the Algonquian tribes of central and eastern Canada. Nanabozo is the impersonation of life, with the power to create life in others. His gender is undefined and changeable. She also appears as diverse personalities and forms - including a raven, a coyote, a hare - which represent the various phases and conditions of the life cycle. In some myths Nanabozo creates animals and causes plants and roots to grow so men can eat. He also features in many comic, bawdy tales that emphasize his immense earthly appetites for food and sex. She plays a dual role in mythology, both as benefactor to the native people and as a prankish and obscene fool. He is both a powerful creator, and a ridiculous clown."

The above picture is taken from Petroglyths near Peterbourough. I have never been to see this, although I know where it is. I always thought...hhhhmmm...someday. Well I think I'll be paying Nanaozo pictograph a visit this summer. The pictograph is about 20 minutes from my moms place.

Creation Reconciliation and Nanabozo

It all seemed too good. Reading the Ojibway creation stories, I had the immediate sense that what happened here on Turtle Island was differant yet the same as my own creation story. I felt that when God created man on the asian continent, he also created original man (anishinaabe) on Turtle Island. When God created Adam, he also created Abe. I mean why not? God could do anything He wants. He said it was His desire that all would know Him. I have been reading about the Ojibway's knowledge of a higher power before white man came, so I assumed that the creations stories I posted were ancient and passed down over many generations.

And then came Nanabozo. He scared me at first and I quickly changed the page. But I saw enough of a glimpse of him to know that he was going to be a stumbling block for me. His presence seems at first to contradict the creation stories I posted. Also, I began to wonder what the average Ojibwa beleives. Was it a creation dream, or is it all about Nanabozo? I gained the courage to return to the Nanabozo story. I think there is so much there to look at. The more I read about Nanabozo, the more I thought about Christ. So, for the next little while I will try and reconcile my thoughts and beliefs with Nanabozo.

Lord God, when I look at Nanabozo, I cant help but see You. My heart is on fire to see the many ways that You make yourself known to us. Lord God, please take my hand and lead me in truth. Lord God, I am seeing and reading so much stuff, and it is my constant fear that I might stray from You. Yet Lord God, I am continually warmed by Your presence and marvel at Your majesty. Would You bless my journey Lord? Would You teach my heart, I pray.

My Art Collection - Part Fifteen

"peace and redemption" © copyright Rick Munro

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My friend Rick Munro painted this for me. I noticed that he had painted a black crow and I asked him if he would paint me a dove. He said..oh yes and the ark, and the flood and he started to tell me how he would compose my simple request for a dove. I love the artist mind. When he mentioned about the flood, I told him that I was studying Anishinaabe creation stories and that I would really like a turtle in the picture. Rick was quick to oblige and hand delivered this painting to me when on Saturday AM. I will find a place for it on my wall and in my heart.

Creation Dream

SONG: Creation Dream: Bruce Cockburn

centred on silence

counting on nothing

i saw you standing on the sea

and everything was dark except for

sparks the wind struck from your hair

sparks that turned to wings around you

angel voices mixed with seabird cries

fields of motion surging outward

questions that contain their own replies...

_

you were dancing

i saw you dancing

throwing your arms toward the sky

fingers opening like flares

stars were shooting everywhere

lines of power bursting outward

along the channels of your song

mercury waves flashed under your feet

shots of silver in the shell-pink dawn...

(Bruce Cockburn Ottawa 20/12/78)

Ever had a dream like this? I have. It was vivid and real. I was wide awake and staring at the clouds when it all happened. It was like a 3D HD experience. Wait, not just 3D, it was fully dimensional, visual, audio, sensory day dream. Perhaps I might even call it vision. Sounds wierd eh. But I remember it mostly for what it told me about God. Have you ever had a dream that you swear was reality? I take great comfort in recalling that dream, for it was through my dream that God reminded me, and gave me assurance of salvation.

Nokomis (the artist) said that all things came to be simply because God had a vision that it could be. God had a dream. He had a vision of creation and made it so. I am told in the Holy Bible that I was made in the image of God. One of the things that makes me(us) unique amongst the entire kingdom is my ability to dream, and create and have visions and inspirations. This is one of the great gifts from God.

Another RR Challenge

Thanks for the link.... Very interesting RR. Here is the line that I found most profound...

Sura 2.113 And the Jews say: The Christians do not follow anything (good) and the Christians say: The Jews do not follow anything (good) while they recite the (same) Book. Even thus say those who have no knowledge, like to what they say; so Allah shall judge between them on the day of resurrection in what they differ.

VoiceLostBlogAuthorNote: I have no doubt these words of the Koran would have been true in the days of Mohammed and they are still true today! There are many hundreds of different and differing sects within professing Christianity; each looks to the Bible as their source for truth and understanding. Unfortunately, the same can be said of differences in the Jewish religion and of the followers of Islam! There is a virtual Babylon of religious belief in the world today; this makes it even more imperative that the individual strive to work out his or her own salvation -- with fear and trembling!

don prayer
Lord God, would You breathe Your breath of life in each and every one of us. Would You fill us with Your love and help us to share that with others. Lord God, help me to see how we are similar, and not dwell on our differances. Help me boldly proclaim You in my life, while loving others for who and what they are.
dw

Ark or a Turtle?

'friendship turtles" © copyright 2009 Patti Rainbow

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I gave all my turtles away and so I called Patti in a panic….”Patti…I need more turtles!”

My soul sister Patti Rainbow made these turtles for me. Last week when I saw her, she showed me her latest creations. I immediately fell in love with these little “gems”. They come to me at a time when I am interested in Ojibway Cultural studies.

The turtle has cultural significance to the Anishinaabe. I will tell you more as I comprehend (I dont want to do injustice), but what I know is this: North America is Turtle Island and what I think is the Turtle is to the Anishinaabe what Noah’s ark is to me. It appears to be a “type” or symolic representation or example of salvation. There is much more to say and learn about Turtle.

I gave one to a brother and he said….Oh a good luck charm? NO, this is not a good luck charm. This is a craft made by loving and inspired hands. It represents for me, Gods plan of salvation and when I give it away, it represents a gift of friendship. I beleive the real spirit power comes when you turn your eyes to God and thank Him for the ark and the turtle.

Anishinabe Creation Story

I found this creation story. This one is very similar to the last.
http://www.ottawaalgonquins.com/index_files/Creation%20Story.pdf.

Given the fact that these creation stories are oral tradition, and that this nation was spread out over great distances over a long period of time, it is acceptable to me to see variation. I have seen the same basic story, told in a number of ways. Each way point me to One God, One Creator. Each rendition of this great truth, helps me to experience just how big and amazing God is. I have not read anything yet that poses a conflict.

The Anishinabe Creation Story,

By: Basil Johnston in Ojibway Heritage

Kitche Manitou (The Great Spirit) beheld a vision.

In this dream he saw a vast sky filled with stars, sun, moon, and earth.

He saw an earth made of mountains and valleys, islands and lakes, plains and forests.

He saw trees and flowers, grasses and vegetables.

He saw walking, flying, swimming, and crawling beings.

He witnessed the birth, growth, and the end of things.

At the same time he saw other things live on.

Amidst change there was constancy.

Kitche Manitou heard songs, wailings, stories.

He touched wind and rain.

He felt love and hate, fear and courage, joy and sadness.

Kitche Manitou meditated to understand his vision.

In his wisdom Kitche Manitou understood that his vision had to be fulfilled.

Kitche Manitou was to bring into being and existence

what he had seen, heard, and felt.

Out of nothing he made rock, water, fire, and wind.

Into each one he breathed the breath of life.

On each he bestowed with his breath a different essence and nature.

Each substance had its own power which became its soul-spirit.

From these four substances Kitche Manitou created

the physical world of sun, stars, moon, and earth.

To the sun Kitche Manitou gave the powers of light and heat.

To the earth he gave growth and healing;

to waters purity and renewal;

to the wind music and the breath of life itself.

On earth Kitche Manitou formed

mountains, valleys, plains, islands, lakes, bays, and rivers.

Everything was in its place; everything was beautiful.

Then Kitche Manitou made the plant beings.

These were four kinds: flowers, grasses, trees, and vegetables.

To each he gave a spirit of life, growth, healing, and beauty.

Each he placed where it would be the most beneficial,

and lend to earth the greatest beauty and harmony and order.

After plants, Kitche Manitou created animal beings

conferring on each special powers and natures.

There were two-leggeds, four-leggeds, wingeds, and swimmers.

Last of all he made man.

Though last in the order of creation, l

east in order of dependence,

and weakest in bodily powers,

man had the greatest gift

– the power to dream.

Kitche Manitou then made The Great Laws of Nature

for the well being and harmony of all things and all creatures.

The Great Laws governed the place and movement of

sun, moon, earth and stars;

governed the powers of wind, water, fire, and rock;

governed the rhythm and continuity of life, birth, growth, and decay.

All things lived and worked by these laws.

Kitche Manitou had brought into existence his vision.

Kitche Manitou Prepared by Lynn Gehl, 2005

Worship service was special for me today. The God I worshiped today, is bigger, better, more perfect, more personal, more, bigger, grander than ever before. I rekon He is as Big and Great as He always was, but somehow there is more room in my tiny brain to comprehend.

Reading these Ojibway Creation stories has touched my heart. I am so happy I have learned these things. I need to reflect now. I need to put these pieces of information with my other pieces. Its kinda like a grand re-organization in my brain. Its like preparing for dump day. I am looking at some stuff that I need to leave outside by the trash bin. I am placing the Ojibway creation story on the shelf of my mind right beside Genesis. It will help me grow and to see more value in the great inheritance that is mine. It is one more piece in my mind that brings honor and glory to God.

Thank You Jesus for taking my hand. Thank you for the words spoken to me today. Help me Lord to store my treasures in heaven. Thank you for helping me clean the room in my mind.