"Visions and foretelling prophecies are not uncommon among my people, the Oglala. The demanding Vision Quest- in which the seeker stays alone, up on an isolated mountain top or badland butte-the Sun Dance ritual, and the powerful Yuwipi (Spirit-calling) Ceremony have resulted in strong foretelling power for our holy men and holy women.
...The Sioux had yet to win the Battle of the Little Big Horn, when a young boy, who was destined to be a Lakota holy man, received a vision from the spirit world. Black Elk saw two men descend with flaming spears. They took him, on a cloud, to a great plain. There a bay horse greeted him, accompanied by prancing horses of different colors; black, white, sorrel (red), and buckskin (yellow)...
Excerpt from "Mother Earth Spirituality" by Ed McGaa, Eagle Man
In the work that I do and have done I am very often sent information to share with my clients. I know that I do not have this power, but rather that I am being used as a vessel. Even as I write these words, I know that I am being guided; as I was guided to put my work out to you in this manner. It's important, I think, to understand how someone perceives their work; especially if it is going to have a profound effect on your life. That is the purpose of my sharing how my work is affected by the things that I believe and how I came to those beliefs. I encourage you to read more about "Black Elk". There is a book called, "Black Elk Speaks", which was written from an interview with Black Elk himself. It is also interesting to know that Black Elk was present at the massacre at "Wounded Knee". Another book that tells the history, one of the first, from a native standpoint rather than anglo; is "Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee". |
