The Chanupa Wakan is NOT a Toy

Recently I have witnessed a disagreement between two men. It does not matter what the subject of the argument was because that is not what I am writing about. I am writing this because something was said that made me very sad.
One man accused the other of being Iyeska (Lakota for both) and because he is Iyeska he will never have the ability to hold the Chanupa Wakan. I am not writing this to point my finger and say anyone is wrong here. That is not my place.
I am writing this to pass on what I have been taught about the Chanupa Wakan. I am writing this because this matter as it was brought up in the disagreement between these two men shows that things and teachings are being forgotten.
When I first asked about the Chanupa Wakan I was told that it is "The most Sacred and Powerful things in this and the other world." I was also taught that it is a very great responsibility to be chosen to carry the Chanupa Wakan.
When you are chosen to carry the Chanupa Wakan you learn that you are the voice of many. You don't ask for things like a new car or a pretty outfit. You are praying for the wellbeing of all of creation. You realize how small but important you are in this circle. You see how you are related to everything and how everything is related to you.
I was also taught that you don't brag about owning the Chanupa Wakan. Instead you hold it deep inside like a treasured secret. It is not like when you go to the store and buy the brand new barbie doll or get a pack of baseball cards with a rare find inside. When you get these things you want to run out and show them to all of your friends and maybe those that aren't your friends too. This is not so with the Chanupa Wakan. With this you must walk a humble path. It is not a toy.