"I used to watch my grandmother, Little Sioux, and my uncle, Wesley Plenty Chief, sit on the ground and get up before and after ceremonies. I didn't think much about it at the time, but now I wonder at their agility for their age. I never doubted their power, though. They were exceptional people.

My grandmother reaches out from her place in the spiritual world and influences my life every day. The older I get, the more I wonder at the power of the Native way.

I spent more time with my uncle later in life. He was at home when I returned from the big city. He was one of the first ones I went to for guidance when I came home, and he remained a strong influence on me until he passed away."

Get the Story:
COLUMNIST DORREEN YELLOW BIRD: Wind carries words of wisdom (The Grand Forks Herald 11/27)

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