Message from the Chief

Remember the other day when I mentioned that I had received the Cherokee Feast of Days from a friend of mine? Well, today I called him to talk with him about a big decision that I'm having to make about my old dog... I'm sure you can guess, but briefly, she's a 16 year old Sharpei - they typically only live to about 9. She has been doing worse and worse and on Sunday basically stopped voluntarily taking food. Today I fed her hotdogs, string cheese and a half of a boiled egg... all of which is 100% against my beliefs about feeding dogs, but I don't want her to starve to death. I love this girl with every little piece and part of me. I'm so conflicted... do I let her go with euthanasia or do I try to steward her through the rest of her days. What will that really mean and can it be done humanely. Well, it turns out that my friend had a chat with the Chief and his message for me was this:

"When one has to walk away from something they love, the thing is to know when it is the right time. He says One must think of the quality of life. It is hard to let go of something you love. You will know when the right time is. And Great Spirit will send and eagle to show them the way to the other side." I am so thankful to Mike for sending me this loving message, to the Chief for sending it and to Great Spirit for clarity.

A few weeks ago my old dog wandered off - way way out of character. A day later an eagle's feather came into my possession.



Cherokee Feast of Days Volume II March 19th

We need something to stoke our fire, to stir us into action. If we sit all day and wonder why life is passing us by it is probably because we gave so little enthusiasm.

Lack of enthusiasm can be the result of fear - fear of disappointment, fear of what others will think or say. But on the other hand, who cares what someone might say? That is their problem, not ours.

It may seem easier not to count on anything, but if we take the time to study a situation, to see what we can do, it could be worth a few disappointments to just see our own grit and enthusiasm to tackle it.

"We have borne everything patiently for this long time."
Joseph Brant
Mohawk