The Deeper Meaning

THE DEEPER MEANING

Like everyone else breathing, I was born into this world. Furthermore, like the majority of those breathing, my creation is one of a blended mixture. My mother has Jewish blood coursing through her veins, as her mother was supposedly born to parents who were both full blooded Jews. The truth, which the family has blatantly ignored, was that my great grandfather, William Hahn, was actually of German descent. But, according to the Jewish custom, it matters not what the father is; the blood line apparently comes from the maternal side. With my great grandmother being a Rosenberg, it solidified my grandmother's nationality which was passed to my mother, regardless of her father being 100% Irish.

My father, whom I have met only once, and spoken to only twice, came from the Southern Arapaho Tribe which primarily reside in Oklahoma. My Jewish grandmother always protested his heritage and claimed he was straight out of Mexico. But, pictures of my Arapaho grandmother more than tell the truth.

Although I have never been subjected to my heritage through my biological father, I have always known of my lineage. I have always felt more in touch with the Native Americans than I have the Jews. When it comes to beliefs, I have problems completely following the Torah and Judaism as a whole. However, I am in tune with my Mother Nature on a level of deep admiration and respect. I am of the firmest belief that we should all love one another as we love ourselves. We should all take care of the world around us that supplies us with life sustaining necessities.

In my early days, the only aspect of my Arapaho culture that I was aware of was the fact that they were a peace loving tribe. I always reveled in this and spoke it loud and proud. Since the age of 15, I have continually boasted about not having to shave my legs as often as all the other women I have known. I know that sounds kooky, but it's true.

Now, in my days of The First Peoples' Tribe here on WDC, I am more inspired than ever to discover the dreams and goals of my ancestors. I would love nothing more than to learn the spoken language, which I have read is one of the toughest of all Indian languages to learn. Through our group, I have become entranced in finding a Sweat Lodge so I can begin to experience the culture on a personal level. I want to go to a pow-wow. I want to taste Fry Bread and want to learn to grow the 3 Sister's Heritage corn that our friend, Lyle, has introduced to us. I long to be a genuine Sun Dancer. I have a strong desire to pass on all native knowledge and customs to those who seek to share in the spirituality that our original founding fathers were made of.

I strive to be a positive demonstrator of peace and harmony - not only with man, but within the animal kingdom as well. I live to promote a non-violent world where love for one another is actually believed in, respected, and cherished. The First Peoples' is beaming with such love and kindness that I can think of no better place to call my home.

In conclusion, when asked, "What does the First Peoples' Group represent to you?" I would simply reply, "Everything."



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