Journal

Indians . . . know better how to live . . . Nobody can be in good health if he does not have all the time fresh air, sunshine and good water.

--Chief Flying Hawk

Oglala Sioux, 1852 - 1931 

"When I was a yong man I went to a medicine-man for advice concerning my future.  The medicine-man said: 'I have not much to tell you except to help you understand this earth on which you live...  If a man is to succeed on the hunt or the warpath he must not be governed by his inclination but by an understanding of the ways of animals and of his natural surrondings, gained through close observation.  The earth is large, and on it live many animals.  The earth is under the protection of something which at times becomes visible to the eye.'"

--Lone Man (Isna-La-Wica)

Teton Sioux, Late 19th Century 

"A warrior who had more than needed would make a feast. he went around and invited the old and needy. The man who could thank the food, some worthy old medicine man or warrior said, 'Look to the old, they are worthy of old age. they have seen their days and proven themselves. With the help of the Great Spirit they have attained a ripe old age. At this age the old can predict or give knowledge or wisdom whatever it is: it is so. At the end is a cane. You and your family shall get to where the cane is'".

--Black Elk,

Oglala Sioux,  1863-1950