After a journey of many days, the Indian came to the Kilowan forest and built his fire and a crude shelter. There he lived for many weeks, searching for the answer to the Great Spirit's question. At last he felt he knew the reasons. One still and starlight night the Indian brave built a large council fire right here at this very spot and called upon Wokanda to listen as he spoke. "Oh Wokanda, the forest here is lovely, but it is without the laughter of a bubbling stream and the serenity of a smooth lake. Perhaps that is why no people dwell here."
Wokanda answered, "It is true that our forest is lacking. As from the spout of the Whale, I shall send forth water to make the lake and the stream. You have done your job well, Brave One."
And the Indian said, "But there is more to my story, Great Spirit, for the lake and the stream shall need the plants and animals of the water in order to be happy."
"Then I shall send the Frog," replied the Spirit. "And following him there shall be others to dwell in our lake and stream."
And again the Indian spoke, saying, "Oh Great Spirit, the land here also lacks the busy life of animals large and small, the animals for brave hunting. Perhaps that is why no people dwell here."
Again Wokanda spoke. "You speak wisely, Brave One. First shall come the Bear and after him will come other animals, large and small, for your hunting and your pleasure."
"There is another need herem Wokanda," said the Brave. "The air is very still and there is not a single creature that sings nor takes to wing. Perhaps that is why none dwell in this place.
Wokanda answered, "Brave One, you are wise. I shall send first the Raven and after him shall come all that fly and sing."
Now the Indian said, "Your Kilowan forest is perfect, Great Spirit. There is no reason why people shall not dwell here now."
"Kilowan is your home now, Brave One. You shall be chief of all who choose this spot for their homeland. You and your people shall remain forever in a special place in my heart." And that is how it all began. The totem poles now stand at our gate to remind us of all the gifts of Wokanda, and if you look carefully, you will see the Whale, the Frog, the Bear and the Raven.
~E. Joesph Cossman