Stories From Our Native American Friends
The Native Americans like other aboriginal peoples have lived close to the land. As such, they are keenly aware of the balance of nature. Most Native American tribes for instance, recognize this state of balance in the universe. We are part of a great circle and our existence is a mere part of nature. We as humans are not any more important than the animals, plants or even rocks. The sum of the parts equals the whole, so to speak.
In many cases, animals in particular are thought to have spirits as the humans do. The Native Americans believed that the animal spirits would leave their bodies after death in the same way that the spirits would leave their human brethren upon their death. When a hunter killed his prey, such as a deer, he would thank that animal's spirit for the sacrifice that the deer had made in order for the hunter's family to eat and therefore survive. The Native American never took it for granted that the animal he had hunted gave up his life, in order that he may live. They also felt the animal's spirit passed on, to eventually return to the earth.
Is it any wonder than, that the stories told by our Native American friends reflect the deep spirituality that they have for the creatures of the forest. As you will see in these stories from different tribes around the United States, the lessons learned from the animals are invaluable to their human kin.
These stories are part of a series to come. Enjoy them and feel free to write to us with your thoughts. We have much to learn from the Native Americans of our past.
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