Turkey is actually thought to be the Give-Away Eagle or South Eagle
of many native peoples. The philosophy of give-away was practiced by
many tribes. It is the deep and abiding recognition of the sacrifices of both
self and others.
Spectators unfamiliar with the cultural phenomenon of the pot latch or give-away
ceremony are often mystified by it. A tribal member may gladly give away all he
or she owns, and do without in order to help the People.
The poor, the aged, and the feeble have honor. The person who gives away the most
and carries the burdens of the People is one of the most respected.
Turkey was the medicine of many saints and mystics. Celebrate if you have
Turkey medicine. Your virtues are many. You have transcended self. You act and
react on the behalf of others. You aspire to help those who need help. This is not out of some
sense of self-righteous moralism or religious guilt. Help and sustenance is given by Turkey out of
the realization that all life is sacred. It is knowing the the Great Spirit resides within all
people. It is an acknowledgement that what you do for others you do for yourself. Turkey medicine
rests in true ego, in enlightenment. Doing unto others and feeding the people is the message of all true
spiritual systems.