July 31 - Daily Feast

July 31 - Daily Feast To be truly beautiful, a precious stone must be cut precisely, polished expertly, and set in the right mounting. It was no less worthy in its original state, but its hidden beauty was where we could not see it. People are precious stones as well. They may be covered by a rough exterior, but we sense the glow - even before they are polished and shaped. With so much emphasis on how we look, there is always work to do, and it isn't all on the outside. Pettiness is the ugly bubble in an otherwise lovely diamond. Bitterness hides sparkle - but careful handling brings out the beautiful facets - and love makes it a treasure. ~ We saw everything the great Spirit's work in almost everything: sun, moon, trees, wind, and mountains. ~ WALKING BUFFALO - TATANGA MANI STONEY 'A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II' by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* THINK on THESE THINGS By Joyce Sequichie Hifler Variety is said to be the spice of life. Anything in which we can continually find something new, a difference, will hold our attention indefinitely. Even the most interesting work can become monotonous if there never is a change. We are a restless people, finding life more livable and exciting when we know there is a bit of change in store. One isn't always aware of monotony. It is a subtle something that creeps silently into a well formed routine. And most are unaware of its presence until its victim, interest, begins to lose ground. Sometimes a change of pace fulfills a need for variety, but the most satisfying is one's ability to lay aside a regular routine to lend a hand to a neighbor when he needs it. The very old and happy habit of helping your neighbor never found a body bored. The hearts of helpers are light, not because they are searching for variety, but because variety find them when self is forgotten and the need to help a neighbor is the only thought. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 30 - Daily Feast

July 30 - Daily Feast The sights and sounds and fragrances of the countryside are extraordinary after a summer rain. Wildflowers and morning glories profusely spread along the fence rows - and the bittersweet has orange berries popping out of little hills. It is a tranquil time, a time to catch the scent of petunias heavy on the evening air. It is something that will be repeated over and over for as long as we can remember. Early morning brings the sweet call of the quail and the cries of a killdeer doing wheelies over the meadows. Speak these things and remember them, because it centers the soul like nothing else on earth. ~ The bird in its flight stops in one place to make its nest, and in another to rest its flight. ~ DAKOTA WISEMAN, 1890 "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* THINK on THESE THINGS By Joyce Sequichie Hifler To be in harmony with others, we must be in tune with ourselves. This is not always a state of mind easily come by, but necessary and possible to those who truly want to put their best foot forward. They must cultivate and re-cultivate the things that make peace within themselves. They must not only have faith, but they must depend upon it, drawing from it energizing joy, love, and lightness of heart. They must know and understand the moods and manners of their coworkers and express to their colleagues their happiness and enthusiasm for the good things in life. At times everyone has fits of uncertainty concerning their way of life. And it is gratifying to have someone capable of lifting us our of the blues and scattering the doldrums. We have to cross examine ourselves again and again to be sure there's nothing that will not contribute to our best self, or draw less than the best from others. To be cooperative is not only beneficial to associations with others, but to our own health, peace, and happiness. Let there be peace and harmony and let it begin with me. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 29 - Daily Feast

July 29 - Daily Feast It helps to turn away from daily events to the quiet of nature and feel the peace that permeates the wooded land, the silent hills, and all the wildlife that lives there. At midday, a woodchuck suns himself. A coyote walks the craggy hill with tail tucked under as though he is already proven guilty. A raccoon sits on a high branch watching the world of nature. And it may be a place of quiet - but never of inactivity and never without reason. But somehow simply watching it balances human problems with inner spirit, and it is something to recall when disorder tries to rule. ~ I want to tell you all that is in my heart - and if I do not, it is because I hide it. ~ LITTLE RAVEN - ARAPAHO, 1867 "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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 than 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler If you've ever been alone in a strange place, you're bound to know how wonderful it is to have someone make you feel welcome. Many people have the knack for being at home in whatever place they find themselves. And in this gift they find no loneliness to tug at them, but more often than not most of us feel like strangers. And in doing so we set ourselves apart, or make it sometimes questionable as to the wisdom of asking us into a friendly circle. A friendly face and a friendly voice can make the most timid souls feel welcome. It can make them feel at home. For in the midst of many there is loneliness. Perhaps it is because our feigned look of self-sufficiency made someone question our need for help. Many a door has opened, and many a sound friendship won when someone said, "We're glad to have you...." The very atmosphere can be charged with concern when we see others who cannot find their way. The warmth of divine love is for daily use in making someone feel welcome. We should not forget nor fail to see the wisdom of Hebrews 13:2: "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unaware." There must be no stronger feeling in the hearts of most people than the desire to belong. To belong to something, to someone, and in a place where the feeling is warm and friendly. The most blessed children in town are the ones born and raised in the same neighborhood, who have the tightly knit sense of belonging to everyone. Suddenly these children are not just the children of their parents, but the children of everyone in the church, in school, and anywhere where there is warmth and love and peace. War rages within so many, disallowing them any connection or any strand of love that would tie them to anything that gives them a sense of security. And when people become insecure they become demanding. And in demanding they lose the most essential part - the ability to attract love to themselves simply by loving first. In the words of William Blake, "Love seeketh not itself to please....Nor for itself hath any care......But for another gives its ease.....And builds a Heaven in Hell's despair." Some of my most productive moments are not when I consider how evil the world is, but how powerful is my God. Some of the best times are not all when I'm enjoying life, but when those I love are knowing happiness. The highest peak of wealth comes when the joy within surpasses anything I can create out here. The bloom of good health is felt more richly when I let it flow through me rather than dwelling on the possibility of sickness. Friendships are strongest and most true when I don't worry about giving more than I receive. In order that others forgive me, I must also learn to forgive. I must never forget that negative thoughts feed on fear and starve on faith. One of the greatest mistakes I can make is to believe myself to be without friend or faith or opportunity. These personal proverbs belong to all thinking persons who want their lives to have more meaning, know more happiness and feel more richly the love that is the medicine for the sickness of the world. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 28 - Daily Feast

July 28 - Daily Feast Some of us see solitude as a primary need - a time away from noisy routine to get our priorities in order. We want our quiet moments, but we want them by choice - not forced on us by circumstance. We get to know ourselves in solitude. We question what brought us to this place, because we know it was not by accident. When we are with others we contemplate their way, but alone, we follow our own way. In quietness our strengths are fortified and made ready for those times when the sands run fast. ~ I am the man that makes it rain....I cause it to rain so the corn will grow. ~ LONE WOLF - KIOWA "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler As long as there has been a human race there has been someone crying out, "No one understands!" Somewhere along the way communications have broken down and the result is misunderstanding. To be misunderstood is painful. We keep wanting to explain and explain until we get our messages across. Sometimes it is the lack of the wise use of words. Then, it may be an unwilling ear. But whatever the race, the politics, sophisticated or home grown, everyone has the desire to be understood. They want every motive, every mood completely and unquestionably understood. But to be completely understood can also have its rebound. A goddess can turn into a woman, and a hero can slip into a man when only one of their moods is completely understood. Understanding breeds familiarity. Familiarity may not breed contempt, but it can certainly take the edge off the mystery. And, it is mystery that keeps life interesting. In all wisdom, we should worry much less about being completely understood, and make a more diligent effort to understand others. Something dies within us when no one cares. It is a circumstance of our own making when we have failed to give to another the thought and concern that would have helped when it was most needed. Sorrows can be borne because others care. Greatness can be achieved because someone cared. To care is our purpose. Who knows but that these small acts of sympathy and understanding may place another life into the one slot on the jigsaw puzzle of life. If we were all the things we expect of others, the result would be perfection. We would be perfect in forgiveness, faithful ion love, and devoted to the welfare of others. Such excellence has never been accomplished, except that we work continually for it. To work for it, we have to care. And for someone to care is the thing that matters. "Instead of allowing yourself to be so unhappy, just let your love grow as God wants it to grow; seek goodness in others, love more persons more; love them more impersonally, more unselfishly, without thought of return. The return, never fear, will take care of itself." - Henry Drummond *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 27 - Daily Feast

July 27 - Daily Feast The human race needs a loving hand. Not a permissive hand and not a hand that strikes out. But it needs a hand that soothes and leads and does so without a selfish motive. Our condition is a result of disobedience. Every rule has been broken, every law, written and unwritten, has been ignored. It has all made for imbalances, injustices, broken hearts and less stability. Where is the loving hand? It is our own. It begins with the individual who is willing to let others exist, to forgive and to be forgiven. No doubt the bad will get worse, the good will get better - and all in all it is a personal decision. ~ By peace our condition has been improved in the pursuits of civilized life. ~ JOHN ROSS - CHEROKEE CHIEF "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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 views 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler Others don't seem to be interested in our excuses - they merely want performance. Alibis for lack of service, for lack of ability to give a full measure of trust make a bad servant. And we are all servants, serving each other in one way or another. It is an unhappy one who is not depended upon for something. There is great satisfaction in being needed, even to the point of doing more than one is capable of doing. English divine Sidney Smith once wrote, "Try to make at least one person happy every day, and then in ten years you may have made three thousand, six hundred and fifty persons happy, or brightened a small town by your contribution to the fund of general enjoyment." We cannot move a step upon this earth without finding someone to serve. And as we serve each day, we never stop to consider how many we've made happy; but it should be very vivid in our minds how many we've made unhappy. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 26 - Daily Feast

July 26 - Daily Feast Over the years we forget how many times we followed the same paths. So accustomed to the twists and turns most of us could walk with our eyes closed - except for the gnarled plum that grows too close to the path. Somewhere in our deepest memory are all the little paths, the little rabbit runs we have walked. Plans were made, fears were put aside, tears were shed, and decisions made along these paths. When we were children, around the bend was a long way from home. Even now we sense we have strayed too far. But we are still within earshot of those paths that lead us back to everything that waits with open arms. ~ Before our red brothers pass to the happy hunting ground, let us wash off our war paint in the river. Let us break our arrows. ~ PLENTY COUPS - CROW CHIEF "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler A graphologist is a handwriting analysis expert who can take apart the loops and dashes of our penmanship and tell us about out nature. We have a natural curiosity about ourselves. We want to know whether our self-image is the true one. We often think we are capable of seeing another's true nature, but we seem to lack the ability to really know ourselves. In fact, so much about us reveals our disposition and temperament that it can be distressing. Our handwriting may tell us about our emotional nature, and we may learn that we are introverts by the slant of our letters, but much of our disposition can be self-analyzed by the way other people respond to us. It doesn't take a graphologist to tell us that if we are inconsistent in our friendliness, if the tongue alternates acid and honey, if we continually complain, continually gossip, criticize and pout, we are revealing a nature we too often think is hidden. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 25 - Daily Feast

July 25 - Daily Feast Victor Hugo said that certain thoughts are like prayers, and at times, regardless of the attitude of the body, the soul is on its knees. This happens frequently when we need courage. And courage, like muscle, works best when a demand is made on it. Unless we demand, we may never know what we can do. That demand may be so effective that we never go back to a time without courage. And out of gratitude, our soul will still be on its knees. ~ I took to the warpath as a warrior not as a chief. I had not been wronged but some of my people had been....and I fought with my tribe. ~ GERONIMO - APACHE "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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 dependant, 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler The greatest tragedy of life is not that we quarrel with our fellows, but that we do not take time to know them. In his great understanding of many and nature, Thoreau wrote, "Let a man take time enough for the most trivial deed." Take time. How often what seems to be an unfriendly atmosphere is only a lack of time. Some of our dearest friends are hidden behind the mask of hurry. And we need so desperately to know each other. Understanding comes when people are allowed to talk to one another. They discover the ways and needs, the loves and hopes, and the despairs and fears when they take enough time to speak of them. All these things that make for understanding and compassion come from personal contact and the knowledge and practice of good will. People become more civilized, more peaceful, more as God intended them to be when they take time to make friends out of acquaintances. To be a good listener endears many a friendship. Everyone needs someone with whom to talk at length on all subjects without later regret. It has been written, "What a great blessing is a friend with breast so trusty that you may bury all your secrets in it." And how often we need to be that friend and be the listener, and to make sure we are worthy of that trust. Listening comes in many ways. We listen with all our senses, knowing many times without having to be told what someone's needs are. Charles Dickens said that no one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of it for anyone else. And it just may be by listening that we lighten another's load. Sometimes we listen with our hearts and understand in silence. Sometimes we simply have to put ourselves into a situation to understand all sides of it. And we best do so by listening. All our lives we carry secrets with us that we long to reveal to someone who understands. There are relationships in our lives better and closer than the ordinary. Closer yet than brothers or sisters are those with whom we can share all our secrets, we think. What a sad state of affairs when life imparts that others cannot always be trusted. What a shock to realize we have given all our hearts and bared our souls to people whose curiosity was the only motive that compelled them to listen. Phillip Massinger, sixteenth century poet, wrote, "I have played the fool, the gross fool to believe the bosom of a friend would hold a secret mine own could not contain." Not one of us can testify that we have nothing within our lives and thoughts that we cannot reveal. And many of us have not expressed our innermost thoughts because we have found no one in whom we can confide. As Shakespeare said, "Many a man's tongue shakes out its master's undoing." Sometimes the loquacious tell their secrets not out of a need to tell them, but out of a love of talking. One of the greatest feelings in the world is to discover we haven't told something we cherish very much to someone we once thought we could trust. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 24 - Daily Feast

July 24 - Daily Feast   Even in July there are lovely cool places in the woods. May apples spread their leaves to shade the tiny blooms of sweet William and moss rich and green and cushiony gathers in rocky areas. Most wet-weather springs have drawn back into the earth and an occasionally tiny trickle waters the wild plum and invites the goldfinch to bathe. It is a haven on a very warm day for both red and gray squirrels to romp and play - but not with each other as they are natural enemies. Get away from the rise in temperatures and let mother nature soothe your brow with songs of the meadowlark and the field sparrow. It is good medicine - very good medicine.   ~ What I say I want you to take to heart. ~   CHIEF BLACKFOOT - MOUNTAIN CROW   "A Cherokee Feast of Days Volume II" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*   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.   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*   "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler   In this jet age when almost "instant there" is commonly accepted the world has become very small. The days of remaining in one's own birthplace are near an end and those who never dreamed of traveling have adjusted themselves to it quite well.   And with shorter distances between us and our neighbors it seems our worlds should find more opportunities for mutual understanding. But we must realize that even though our material worlds may be easily crossed our thoughts are worlds apart. Until we can bring together a thinking people with the desire to create living conditions that are peaceful and full of kindness fast travel can waver between good and bad.   A British Novelist and poet George Moore said"It is thought and thought only that divides right from wrong it is thought and thought only that elevates or degrades human deeds and desires."   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 23 - Daily Feast

July 23 - Daily Feast Anxiety is as contagious as measles. Even when we are calm and secure, listening to what could happen - what likely will happen - can drag us into deep anxiety. Be on guard against the spread of rumors and what "could" happen. Sure, things can happen and most likely will if we start listening to the sensational reports that the whole population could be wiped out by overeating. We could also be bruised by running into the bones of skinny people - but neither is apt to happen. Use some common sense, refuse to be roped into thinking every report is gospel. And give yourself credit for using your head in hearing anxious reports. ~ We preferred our own way of living. ~ CRAZY HORSE - SIOUX "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler Cooperation is said to be the essence of success. Without it confusion and chaos are the ruling factors and in harmony the main thought. Cooperation is a result of excellent leadership, the ability to build a team of loyal players who can follow instructions or think for themselves, whichever is for the best of all concerned. A team is a group with specific parts to play. In all wisdom they know a little about every part, but they play their own positions with precision and efficiency. Every player cannot be captain, and every person cannot play quarterback. The part may be small, but if it is played with fairness and dignity and to the utmost of ability, then it will be as important to the successful outcomes or results as the biggest job in the team. The practical view of cooperation is vivid in John Dickinson's words, "By uniting we stand; by dividing we fall." We are only as strong as the weakest, only as cooperative as the spirit in which we work. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 22 - Daily Feast

July 22 - Daily Feast Years ago, a very wealthy man was asked about the condition of his soul. He responded as he always had - with the idea that money can buy anything. A large sum of money was offered if anyone could give him tangible proof that he even had a soul. His business acumen was not in keeping with the spiritual, so he did not know his soul was a combination of mind, will, and emotions - the very things he used to accumulate his wealth! Many real things are not tangible - fragrance, the wind, sounds; but we feel their influence and know them to be actual and sometimes more enjoyable than they which is touchable. To hear the wind chimes, to smell the bed of petunias and honeysuckle, to feel the breezes - these lovely things prove that we do have souls. ~ My friends, your people have both intellect and heart; you use these to consider in what way you can do the best to live. ~ SPOTTED TAIL - SIOUX "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Elder's Meditation of the Day - July 22 "All things are connected. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the children of the earth." --Chief Seattle, SUQWAMISH AND DUWAMISH 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler Have you considered the effect your presence may have on people around you? Do they need you? The answer is yes. We are somewhat selfish with our presence at times. We want to withdraw and think our own thoughts and read quietly rather than entertaining someone or just listening to them. Bur we never really know how much they need us, not to perform good deeds for their good, but only to be company to share a happening of the day. Perhaps within their minds we can quiet some restlessness, assure them that they are needed or give them a feeling of tranquility. To many life is no simple matter, and to hear them out may be the remedy. It has been said by a very wise man that if you never make a mistake you're not doing anything. It's a relief to know that every day, without fail, we come in contact with people who put such confidence in us that we strive ever harder to never fail. Such people build human beings - and there is no job more worthy, or more creative. Building character and confidence in fellow human beings is a delicate task...for no two people respond in the same way. Challenges may be the way to boost up some individuals, while others may need encouragement and praise to guide them on the way. But, oh, how human we all are, having the same need for accomplishment....for attention....for approval. And how great the responsibility for leaders who must have the wisdom to inspire....the integrity to trust....the heart to understand. The race is hard for leader and follower, for each must understand the other - and there must be compassion for the slow, courage for the weak, and appreciation for the loyal. To follow one must be secure; to lead one must be very wise. It should be the practice of all of us that when we hear something complimentary about someone to tell them. It is so true that man does not live by bread alone, and to be recognized in having done something that rated approval is a very great reward. Nothing so builds character in children than to let them know someone believes they have a fine potential. That feeling that "someone believes in me" can be the very thing that will anchor their faith deep in hope for humanity. To be able to see the good acts of others renders service to ourselves. Swiss theologian John Casper Lavater once said, "He is incapable of a truly good action who finds not a pleasure in contemplating the good actions of others." Appreciation for the achievement of others is akin to sunshine - we simply can't help it shine on other people without feeling the glow ourselves. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 21 - Daily Feast

July 21 - Daily Feast She was e li is, a woman elder, a leader with great gifts, and what she spoke rang with truth. She said, "Every person makes a strong statement about who they are." The words were simple and unpretentious but they were powerful, for every day we hear people telling us who they are. Some say, "I am sick"; others say, "I am broke." Some have said over and over, "I am afraid." Their claims are as good as done. They can make new claims of health and plenty and strength, but they seldom do it. But when these very personal statements come to our ears, we can remember to write out our personal beliefs of well-being and never part with them for a minute. ~ You must speak straight so that your words may go as sunlight to our hearts. ~ COCHISE - APACHE "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler Henry David Thoreau, whose love for simplicity often took him into solitude, also wrote of the sensitive side of human nature. "The finest qualities of our nature, like the bloom on fruits, can be preserved only by the most delicate handling." How easy it is to destroy the only approach to our true selves. And how often communications are broken down by the brutal force of "getting to the point" and speaking "frankly." The only time an agreement has been reached by the frankly route is when two people already believe in the same thing. And it is a most infrequent occasion when two people can meet head-on and believe the other honest because that person is direct and wordy. More often, there must be some thought given to the sensitivity of the other person. First, that person is a human being with human dignity, feelings and thoughts, strong likes and dislikes. And it is a considerate person who has the sensitive perception and insight into the heart of another, and because of that thoughtfulness can be more honest and direct and progress by it. Nevertheless, if one has to be constantly on the outlook to keep from offending a friend, then that person is not really a friend. It isn't difficult to be a friend to someone who is endearing to everyone. Indeed it is a pleasure to be counted among that person's friends. But it is another thing altogether to be a friend to someone who finds little friendship anywhere. Other people seldom see us as we are. In fact, who we truly are is lost somewhere among our daily contacts. We react differently to nearly every person we meet. Their personality and ours may blend beautifully or they may clash horribly. And we can rather tell where the fault lies when we balance out the blends and clashes. Are we easy to be friends with, or are we merely acquaintances and nothing more? If people have to dodge around so many issues in order to keep us sweet, we need to hear some truth about ourselves. If we can't do it, it may have to come from a friend. Then, we must remember the words of Thomas A. Becket, "Better are the blows of a friend than the kisses of an enemy." *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 20 - Daily Feast

July 20 - Daily Feast Having done all, stand. Stop saying you wish you had done differently, stop the anger, and above all, stop acting like a donkey. Having done all, stand still and see it work, support it by keeping faith on your lips - not pitiful insecure words. When a thing is right, it is right. Stand on it and make it part of your innermost spirit. How can your consciousness work to any advantage if you keep running in circles and doubting what you had to do? All the circumstances will come into play and make final decisions, but standing for right was your part - and you did it! ~ For all these things we thank the Great Ruler and Him only! ~ SA-GO-YE-WAT-HA - SENECA CHIEF "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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, do 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler Two qualities so well liked in people are brightness and warmth, both parts of the sun. Sir David Brewster was a Scottish physicist of the eighteenth century. His study of the material world and its phenomena called the sun glorious, "the center and soul of our system, the lamp that lights it, the fire that heats it, the magnet that guides and controls it, the fountain of color which gives it azure to the sky, its verdure to the fields, its rainbow-hues to the gay world of flowers, and the purple light of love to the marble cheek of youth and beauty." What more beautiful qualities for any human being to possess than to have a soul at the center of its system, to light the appearance, to warm the feelings, to guide and control it through its colorful moods, and to let it rise as high as the azure skies and as wide as the gay world of flowers. But better yet, to be most beautiful with the purple light of love. What more to be given than the same qualities of the sun - by one Creator. To live we need more than light, we need warmth. We need more than strength, we need grace. And more than all these we need love. There can be no greater joy than to see our respect for each other - the warmth and grace and love that binds together people in mutual concern. Only when we can lay aside our personal feelings, our self-concern and worry of our own gain, can we join in true communion and fellowship with others. And to feel a sense of belonging is necessary to humankind. It is the nature, not only to be liked and wanted, but to like and want others. And in this relationship find not just warmth but light, not only grace but strength, and in all of these find love. "Walk in the light and thou shalt see thy path, though thorny, bright; for God, by grace, shall dwell in thee, and God himself is light" - Barton. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 19 - Daily Feast

July 19 - Daily Feast Talk is easy, but listening is better. Mouths have a way of getting away from us - and then we say things we are not committed to - or don't necessarily believe. Others may seem sensitive - too sensitive. But we may be dull and careless. When the mouth starts to work, the minds stops to listen. Where did those words come from? They came from trouble on the horizon. True, some are easily offended - and on the other hand, what would it have cost to be quiet? ~ I am the maker of my own future. ~ SHOOTING STAR - SHAWNEE WAR CHIEF "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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 I 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler Before we can share with others, we must have something to share. And all of us do have something to give. Not material things, but we can share our peace and our love and our loyalty. Before we can share with others, there must be others with whom to share. For if we are selfish and self-centered enough, we will never have to worry about sharing anything. We will be alone. Before we can expect others to share with us, we must be capable of accepting. We must be worthy of others who desire to share with us; we must deserve their love. Before the two of us can ever find anything in this world of mutual interest, we must have enough concern and enough love to feel a need within to produce something good enough to offer; not only to others, but to ourselves. If we have abused our own nature with thoughts of bitterness, harboring painful experiences, self-condemnation for little progress regardless of circumstances, then we have nothing to offer. The French philosopher Achille Poincelot once said, "Some people think that all the world should share their misfortunes, though they do not share in the sufferings of anyone else." *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 18 - Daily Feast

July 18 - Daily Feast A certain careful handling of business takes over when something makes us feel limited. Whether it is time or money or people, we know they must be utilized in the right spirit. As the Indian says, "Everything is in a circle." Whatever we set in motion comes back, and often shocks us by how quick and with what impact. Such things teach us to stop and think - to consider the use of a word or an act - and even a dollar. When we have material needs, a single dollar given where the need is great can multiply and come back to us a hundredfold. Even treating someone kindly is an investment, and though it may seem insignificant, when we are weary and sore, we learn how important it is. ~ You have noticed that everything an Indian does is in a circle. ~ BLACK ELK - OGLALA SIOUX "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler Have you ever stood on the sidelines and watched the drama of your own difficulties being acted out in someone else's life? Does it provoke a feeling of gratitude that here I will witness something that will help me solve my own problems? Or does it invite a feeling of smugness that they were not so capable of hiding theirs as I have been of concealing mine. Hiding one's difficulties can be compared to concealing an elephant. The only possible way to keep it a secret would be to keep it from those who could care less in the first place. If they were face to face with your elephant they would register little surprise and proceed immediately to forget it. In fact, there is considerable danger in looking down on those who are trying to get their lives on the right track. At least they have the intestinal fortitude to try. And to pretend that one has nothing to overcome is merely polishing the front glass while the back door falls away. Smugness or compassion? It was Cowper who reminded us, "Man may dismiss compassion from his heart, but God never will." *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 17 - Daily Feast

July 17 - Daily Feast Love has no part of abuse. Claims of great love are really claims of great need when there is abuse. Love doesn't abuse. It protects and comforts and gives support. Abuse is from possession of evil - the need to hurt and destroy. It is a need for a prey - a smaller prey where domination is secure. Human need is a net thrown over a thing or a person to keep them close and subdued. If escape seems possible the possessor turns to tears and persuasion as another way of dominating. But love - love is a deep sacred trust that runs through the most common acts, the shared hours, the sweetest and most trusting touch. It is the miracle of life. ~ Why does the agent seek to take away our religion? ~ SITTING BULL - SIOUX, 1889 "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler At times, Americans seem too easily taken, too docile to political movements, and too indifferent to their own responsibilities as a free people. How easy it is to turn our heads and tell ourselves that there are intelligent people in high authority looking after our interests and that they will never let our freedom be lost. This kind of thinking is a fallacy. America still belongs to the people, and it is up to us to tell our representatives in Washington that we want it kept that way. We are too easily led to believe that we deserve a way of life that appears free and easy. But seemingly free handouts will eventually take away our freedom unless we decide to personally do something about it. Americans are known for their ability to start with a little ingenuity and a lot of faith to build powerful financial empires. But in great and small there beats a heart of devotion to God and country. In battle, no one could display more bravery, more determination, or more loyalty than these defenders of America. In the face of seeming defeat, young Americans have stood together and fought courageously. Now, people of all ages must stand together. We must make our views known to the government. We must continually develop within ourselves moral, physical, and spiritual strength; and we must pray to God - without that faith, all is lost. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.Com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!

July 16 - Daily Feast

July 16 - Daily Feast In ages past predictions were made that a time would come like the days of Noah - a time of floods and volcanoes and earthquakes. Evidence of hot spots, upheavals and changes in the earth is everywhere - and it makes us ask if this is the time like Noah's. Earth goes on renewing and making every effort to stay whole and clean in spite of the tampering of mankind. Can it change itself? It must learn from earth that too much pressure can blow everything. We learn from the river that we can be so broadminded that we spread into the shallows and dry up in the midday sun. Our decision is to read the signs and know for ourselves. It comes down to a very fine point - a point that is us. ~ Behold, my brothers....the earth has received the embraces of the sun and we shall soon see the results of that love! ~ SITTING BULL - SIOUX "A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II" by Joyce Sequichie Hifler *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* 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. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* "THINK on THESE THINGS" By Joyce Sequichie Hifler There are two words in every life that mean more toward perfecting that life than any other thing. Those two words are the basis for every action. They are "personal responsibility." Daniel Webster once wrote that the most important thought he ever had was that of his individual responsibility to God. It was his personal responsibility. No matter how understanding others may be, how kind, and tolerant, there comes a time when we cannot ask, not expect to receive, help in our struggle. There are simply times when other people cannot cover for our poor performance. It soon becomes time for us to stand on our own feet, express our own feelings, and search out our own beliefs. Others can run interference for us, make excuses for us, and guess at our feelings. But we don't begin to live until we've accepted our personal responsibilities. We must learn to express truth in everything from showing our love to voting in an election. Life is one personal responsibility after another. Shifting it to another's shoulders loses some of the most important steps. Failure to recognize it is folly; ignoring it is stupidity; and accepting it is to find more truth and more strength than was ever imagined or expected. *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* Available online! 'Cherokee Feast of Days' By Joyce Sequichie Hifler. Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones......and also for those who don't have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com Elder's Meditation of the Day By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org   *<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>* If you would like to be added to The Daily Feast email list, CLICK HERE!