answering the call of Sundance

"Ahehee"...thank-you to my lover, my warrior, my husband for leading with understanding.

Sun parched lips

body pushed beyond limits

thirst gnaws unleashing his control over mind, spirit and body

as delirium is introduced...four days without food and water.

within the brush arbor of Sundance grounds 

a struggle ensues with personnel battles

discipline to maintain focus as human urges to survive encompass

aid comes as ancient songs exert their power

eagle whistles commune with the rhythmic beat of drums and singers

relatives and community offer prayers, songs and admonition

Sundancer calls upon grandfather Bison for answers to questions that plague

searching for meaning to life's painful journey

relinquishing reliance on self 

as strength renews and hope infuses

values clarified, priorities re-aligned, 

simplicity revealed

body pushed beyond boundaries to comprehend and confront

mortal's enemy

It is only when faced with death that comprehension abounds

to lead self, family and nation whose path is obscured

healing through want

understanding the pain

 searching the paths that lead to survival 

conquering self....a personal victory!

as the Sundance Chief brings in the life-sustaining liquid

first drink behind enclosures 

rejuvenated with the quenching of thirst

A celebration for warriors made 

newfound humility and strength

lead the way.

 

It is only when faced with death that lessons are learned

   

Reviews

[Jaweena...Eileen Quinta..]

Prayers offered for quenching of thirst for spiritual guidance.

[Jaweena...Eileen Quinta..]

Prayers for our warriors today who are dancing out in Ute Country! today is the 3rd day without water - (drink lots of water for them.) Thank you Sundancers for your sacrifice....may Creator hear your powerful prayers and bless each one of you. Help us to bring to reality their pleas for peace, understanding, balance, harmony - Unity!

[Christina May Shanaberg]

Men of all walks of life need to take time out from the world and commune with their innerselves. Women for that matter, too. I have the old fashioned belief, however, that a man is the head of his family and their spiritual leader. Four days without food, I have done, but without drink. Wow, that must be hard. I would be doing a lot soul-searching and self reflection, too. As your poem says, it would give you newfound humility and strenghth. Loved this write!

[Judy Ponceby]

truly a joy to read of your love of your traditions and the respect with which you and yours honor them. beautifully written in a way to share with others that is wonderful and inspiring. thank you so much for sharing.

[Desert Dreamer]

I see great wisdom in this practice, a pathway to cross a boundary we would not cross any other way, I have great respect for anyone who has experienced this. Powerful writing.

[Jaweena...Eileen Quinta..]

Sundancing requires going without food and water for four days. In my husband's tribe the Northern Ute nation the Sundancers are led through this sacred ceremony by a Sundance Chief. Awake before the sun comes up to offer prayers and start dancing all day and into the night for a vision. Many men fall out or are taken out. It takes a lot of strength, endurance and discipline to be taught by hunger, thirst and elements. Reliance on creator, the teachings of those who have gone through this and support of family and community through songs and protocal of this powereful rite is essential. Thank you.

[roy mccarthy]

this write is very spiritual
full of amazing imagery....

[paul]

everyline is beautiful and powerful.
you have written quite a song here.

[Robin]

the eagle is my totem and I hear - and feel - the rhythm of your words Jaweena