It would depend on what story you are referencing. There are several of our own and many more falsely attributed to us. I generally don't speak much publicly on these types of things and I could get into the why's although it would be a bit of a lengthy explanation, however, the story I am speaking of tells of ancients coming coming here from "the Sky Vault" which means basically from some where in space.
That might be similar to some Anasazi creation stories which I'm aware of, or not. It's understandable that you'd prefer not to discuss them publically, (although you did bring it up initially *chuckle*). I was mainly curious from a 'comparative myth' perspective, (in that these are not considered to be 'myth' by those who believe in them). It's difficult to discuss specifics when only generalities are available however, I'm going to defer this preference to you since your creation story isn't as widely-known as some others, (out of a respect for privacy).
Thank you.
Yes I did vaguely refer to it lol.
As you are well aware, many people are not as diligent as yourself in striving to gather true facts.
Many times less scrupulous people will get on some ego trip after hearing some tid bits of something and then make up huge elaborate stories to add to them, thinking it makes them look intelligent.
This has the result of much mis-information.
There are many many people with legit Native ancestry who were never around the culture but are trying to find their way back. They hear these bogus stories and believe them, then retell them. Now you have authentic NDNs spreading these stories and repping them as legit.
Many people say that the way to preserving our culture is to share it. Many of us have a different stance on that. I am not against sharing, just that I am very careful in where and to whom I do speak on these things with, as my way of attempting protect them.
In my view, when/if the authentic culture is lost, then assimilation will be complete, resulting in there being no more NDNs ever....we will all then simply be Americans.
Assuming that much tradition is passed-down orally and that you're aware of the "telephone game" young people have played, (whisper something in one ear and pass it along to the next ear and so on until at least nine people have participated ... the 9th person then says whatever it was aloud - which must be a long sentence/question). If these assumptions apply, would you estimate that some elements may have already been lost/mis-spoken over such a long period of oral-traditions?
There are certain tribal members, of my Nation, that are tasked with learning, memorizing and telling of stories that have been passed down for many generations. Stories often include names of specific Ancestors as well as place settings that are local and usually very familiar. This gives the effect of being much more familiar on a personal level,to said Ancestor then would happen if a more vague reference was mentioned. This is one of the reasons being relocated is such a tragic event. Along with the belief that a persons spirit can not rest unless being buried in the soil made up by the remains of the Ancestors.
Story keepers are allowed license to add to the stories so in answer to your question, yes it would be possible that some bits have been lost along the way, however, in most instances, it isn't extreamly likely. Reason being is that when one is learning the stories they are not allowed to tell them until they have memorized them to the satisfaction of their mentor. Not to say that it never happens.
Getting back to our connection with our environment, we hold the belief that every thing is cyclical. Meaning enter connected and moving in a never ending cycle. We are conceived as the result of biological substances of our parents. It is what we are made of, therefore, we are in reality a part of our parents and in turn all of their forbears. We get our sustenance from products of the soil, which is made up of, and nourished by, the remains of our Ancestors. Thereby re-enforcing the connection in that way. It takes the sun, soil and water to nourish plants, which in turn nourish us as well as the fourlegged and other of our Relatives, which we also partake of. When we harvest any food item we are taught to not only always give thanks but also to give something in return, which may be some sacred offering and/or returning any by products which we don't consume in some way, back to the soil. So we see that all of these things are connected and very necessary to each of our survival. We believe that every organism has some important function so is for that reason sacred and not to be disrespected or attempts made to harm them. That said, I will mash every fly I can in my home lol.
Anyway, this is straying a bit far from your question so I will stop here. Perhaps someone, will get a little something from my musing.....
Community Forum
Topic: Dumbing-down or wising-up? (Read 15934 times)