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Traditions TOBACCO USE Tobacco is used in many different ways in the Native American way of life. It is used for offering, gifting, apologies, and asking for something. When tobacco is used for offering, it is given to the fire or sprinkled on Mother Earth. Giving thanks, praying, or honoring is the appropriate time for this ceremony. Tobacco use for gifting shows respect to the recipient. It can be given in the form of a tobacco tie, cigarette, or pouch. Reminder, this gift does not need to be a large amount. If at some time you want to ask a favor or question, a small amount of tobacco given to the person of whom you are to ask is appropriate. The individual will know you are showing respect and being sincere when you gift tobacco. Finally, and most importantly, when you offend or hurt someone, offering tobacco is a must. When you apologize for a wrong done, intentionally or unintentionally, it shows respect and that you are truly sorry for the offense. Remember, tobacco is to be used, not abused. OUR FLAGS COLORS In the past, there has been quite a lot of controversy concerning the colors of the flag, the direction they are in, and what symbol represents each direction. The following information was obtained through the teachings of David Marks, Sr.and Lora Marks Siders. We are not sure if these colors are the tribal colors or the confederacy colors. They are the colors that I was taught and I will stand by their teaching. In the East, the color is yellow and represents illumination. The eagle is the representative of the Eastern direction. In the South, the color is green to blue and represents innocence. The mouse is the representive of the Southern direction. In the West, the color is black and represents introspect. The bear is the representative of the Western direction. In the North, the color is white and represents wisdom. The buffalo is the representative of the Northern direction.  |