Tag: Quote

We live we die and like the grass…

We live, we die, and like the grass and trees, renew ourselves from the soft earth of the grave. Stones crumble and decay, faiths grow old and they are forgotten, but new beliefs are born. The faith of the villages is dust now… but it will grow again… like the trees.

-Chief Joseph, Nez Perce (1840-1904)

Quote from Wokini

In my youth I respected the world and life, I needed not anything but peace of heart;

And yet I changed despite myself and believed in Iktumi’s lies. He seemed to know all the truth, he promised to make me happy.

He made me ask Wakantanka for wealth, that I might have power; I was given poverty, that I might find my inner strength.

I asked for fame, so others would know me; I was given obscurity, that I might know myself.

I asked for a person to love that I might never be alone; I was given a life of a hermit, that I might learn to accept myself.

I asked for power, that I might achieve; I was given weakness, that I might learn to obey.

I asked for health, that I might lead a long life; I was given infirmity, that I might appreciate each minute.

I asked Mother Earth for strength, that I might have my way; I was given weakness, that I might feel the need for Her.

I asked to live happily, that I might enjoy life; I was given life, that I might live happily.

I received nothing I asked for, yet all my wishes came true. Despite myself and Iktumi, my dreams were fulfilled.

I am richly blessed more than I ever hoped, I thank you, Wakantanka, for what you’ve given me.

-Billy Mills , Oglala Lakota (1938-)