This past weekend we had the awesome opportunity to go to the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, MN. It was wonderful to get up close and personal with many of these magnificent raptors. The Center was having a special celebration the day we were there which included a Native American Hoop Dancer and storyteller. He was by far, the best part of the whole day. He shared with us so much history in the short time he was there.
They invited him to participate in the day because the eagle shares great honor and significance among the Native Americans. We learned that the eagle represents the ascending human spirit. Each of their feathers represents virtues. The hoops that Mr. Loke dances with, combine to make many different shapes and pictures, which of course, also have great meaning. Here he is near the end of his dance with all his hoops arranged to represent eagles wings. It was unlike anything I've ever seen.
But the absolute best part was the prayer of the Lakota that he and his nephew, Doug Goodfeather, sung before they began. It is so humble, yet powerful. I haven't been able to stop meditating on it.
Oh, Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the winds.
And whose breath gives life to all the world.
Hear me! I am small and weak.
I need your strength and wisdom.
Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes
Ever hold the red and purple sunset.
Make my hands respect the things you have made.
My ears sharp to hear your voice.
Make me wise so that I may understand
The things you might teach me.
Let me learn the lessons you have hidden
In every leaf and rock.
I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother.
But to fight my greatest enemy, myself.
Make me always ready to come to you
With clear hands and straight eyes.
So when life fades, as the fading sunset.
My spirit may come to you without shame
