This is short book with mega-wisdom taken from the Nations that flourished before the invasion of the Europeans. There is tranquility, peace, passion and strong emotions in the gathered sayings. The simple messages touch the heart and mind with a lot of sense. I promise that you will be touched by reading this book.
"Remember that your children are not your own, but lent to you by the Creator." "Life is the flash of a firefly in the night, the breath of the buffalo in winter time."
Wow! Love that one. There are a few touches of beautiful poetic sayings.
Indeed, there are a few splashes of Wisdom. "It is no longer good enough to cry peace, we must act peace, live peace and live in peace."
I was expecting wisdom from Native Americans, perhaps predating the negative impact of the Europeans, not just somewhat random quotes. Many of the quotes are not really wisdom, but lamentations of invading Europeans, woeful scenes and scenarios.
"We want no white men here. The Black Hills belong to me. If the whites try to take them, I will fight." While spoken by a Native American, the the voice says he OWNS the land. That sounds not at all like Native American (sounds White to me). Nor is it wisdom (just rage).
I've read a much better book - it's called _Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee_. Yes, it is sad. Yes, the white folk were horrible. Yes, it is true, and it is history. But, that does not make it Wisdom.
It seems 50% or more of this short book is bemoaning and anger. I am not saying there isn't feelings of anger and grief, but that (contrary to the title) is not either poetic nor Wisdom. A book that thick of just Chief Seathl sayings could be written. Seems like a week spent googling internet sites could come up more quotes and quips, and with a better variety.
What’s not to love about our Native American brothers and sisters? Decent and unassuming…and their wisdom!—profoundly succinct and elegant. There’s a delicate and gentle nobility of spirit unique to this race which radiates from this book
I think I’d rather carry this in my hand for reference and sustenance than any other volume. A source of constant reflection and joy.