My Uncle Pat invited me to sing with the drum at a wellness and sobriety conference sponsored by Deb Stanger and the Spokane Tribe. The event was titled "Breaking the Cycle."
The conference invitation states in part, "This day is dedicated to the human beings that have had to struggle in life to maintain their dignity through... drug/alcohol abuse, violence, trauma, and other problems... As a nation, we need to forgive and begin the healing process..." Community agencies and prevention workers from around the area gathered to share resources and personal stories of healing.
Before the opening song, my uncle made a brief prayer and said, "The drum is the heartbeat of the Indian people." He then spoke of the drum calling our young people back to healthy living, away from addictions, violence, and gangs.
Four of us sang at the drum: Pat, Francis, Deb, and I.
Many times I have sat at the drum and felt the power of that spirit. Today was no exception: I experienced it as an invisible wave emanating from the drum and touching everyone in the room. Most of the people in attendance rose to their feet in respect, and even many of the building staff left their work stations to listen. I've heard it said that the drum is a living person. If this is true, then he or she is a compassionate person offering power, healing, and strength to the Indian people and people everywhere.
5 comments:
Hmmmm. :-)And with a beautiful photograph.
I love drums. I haven't drummed in quite some time (I have my own small drum). There is indeed a heartbeat to them, a sound that reachs deep into ones Spirit.
What a wonderful experience for you.
Hugs!!!
blessed be...
I really like that picture. I love the title also. The word makes me feel comforted. Isn’t it funny how words can create so much emotion when the words themselves are purely a human creation that hold meaning only to us.
I have been drawn to drumbeats of a native types for years, literally. They "speak" connecting the generations, like a window literally opening back into the heart of a people. And somehow I find my soul "pricked," as if I am able to experience a holy moment WITH all of these timeless elements.
Whether in the Zocalo of Mexico City, or below the 3 Tetons of Wyoming, or the high Andes Mountains altiplano, many times I have been drawn in by the sacred drum beats. And there is more magic there for me to learn from in the future I hope.
Thank you everyone for the comments. Somehow I didn't see them until today, but I'm gld that everyone feels a connection to the drum. It eally is a beautiful thing.
Percy, you continue to outline the course of a future meeting, connection, retreat, or SOMETHING. We really need to make this event a reality.
Post a Comment