Gulf
Coast Indian Confederation
Activities
Hazel Bazemore County Park (Sept 2002)
a reverence for birds of prey and other winged ones.
Birds of prey, especially the eagle, are sacred to Native Americans,
watching over and carrying the prayers of the people
to Wakan Tanka (the Great Spirit, or Grandfather).
In like manner, hawk watchers and counters concerned with
monitoring raptor population trends and survival rates
also have a deep and abiding respect for birds of prey.
Blessing ceremony and drumming and singing
to honor
the hawks and eagles (winged ones).
It never fails; when the drumbeats begin,
the hawks
come overhead as well! This lone migrating broadwinged
hawk came low overhead within the first few beats.
Bill and Charlie, friends for many years,
reunite their spirits at the drum.
More hawks gather as the drum continues to
pulse
to the heartbeat of mother earth. This group of
several hundred was just one of thousands of hawks
that spiraled overhead throughout the day.
Joe Lone Wolf, Bill and Charlie.
A gift of beauty to a beautiful young lady by Lou Ann Blue Finch.
Left: Vicki / Right: Jim
All find peace and power in the spirit of the drum.
Facing:
Roger and Larry Running Turtle.
A prayer and honor song for warrior Roger, who returned
to his Marine Corps unit a day later.
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