A hard day’s drive landed us in Pickstown, SD. You better watch out when the big trucks roar past that they don’t blow you off the road!

We are here to meet with Chief Izzy of the Lakota. We spent the night listening to his wisdom.

He explains that we are all pieces, no one more or less important, which if, fit together, result in harmony. Thus if we are living how we are meant to live, our existence, our community and our planet will be the wonder it can be. Endemic frustration, bickering, greed and unhappiness are signs we are not honoring the unique and most valuable piece that we each are.

Not sure what is your true essence? Ask a pine tree and then listen. It knows with all its spirit and form it is first and last a pine tree, from the deepest roots to the highest needle.

He has a great way of describing why it can be so difficult for many in these times to find faith: though we reach for the Great Spirit’s extended hand, our attachment to material things keeps us from being able to fully return the grasp.

He uses the tee pee as a metaphor for how all religions are able to guide us to the Creator; the difference is each, whether it be Islam, Catholicism and so on, provides a path for that specific area from whence it came.

As with other faiths, he explains the Creator will allow something to happen, though there is always an equal but opposite exchange. We of course see this everywhere: karma; the anime xxxHolic, specifically through the words and actions of the Mistress, gets into this in an interesting way; and this is the downfall of Sauraman and Morgoth too. While maybe we can exert influence, there is always a price.

His wisdom is illuminating and I find myself in a state of self reflection. You can read more about him and his work at www.bringingthesacredback.org.

Real wild turkeys.

I took a walk late in the evening. The moon is full and the moist air is warm and pleasant. This neighborhood is very clean and full of rich grass. I happened upon a park where I took advantage of the pull-up and push-up opportunity. I really need to be real that my right side makes up for my wimpy left unless I stay within my left side’s limits.

Good night and sweet dreams.