REVIEW OF MY 'NATIVE AMERICAN WISDOM

Native American Wisdom - A Spiritual Tradition at One with Nature
edited by Alan Jacobs
Watkins Publishing
ISBN 978-1-905857-86-9
Published January 2008 - Hardcover - 186 pages - $8.95

Whoever holds the key to wisdom in the full sense of the word, will you please open the door? We're in dire need of some as we're really stupid when it comes to running our lives. By "we" I mean people in general. Just look at what we've done to ourselves, our fellow humans, our animals, and to the planet on which we're supposed to exist! Are we dumb or what? Now, there are enlightened ones among us but, for reasons unknown (fear and/or ignorance?), we don't listen or consider their words or deeds. The words of others don't have to be just about religion either; it seems we're immune to the common sense gene. However, many derive comfort, security, and assurance from a multitude of denominations, and I say, each to his own and live and let live. The dustjacket of this book says, "Although there are major differences in the lifestyles of the numerous Native American nations, they share fundamental beliefs. The spiritual wisdom of these people is based on a love and reverence for Nature, a belief in a Supreme Being, and a spirit world which interacts with human activity." Makes perfect sense to me as they've been around longer than you and me, and certainly know a thing or two. Tribal words featured in this charming book come from the Apache, Sioux, Cherokee, Zuni, Comanche, Kiowa, Pequot, Onondaga, Navajo, Lakota, and more. I loved this quote: "Liberty don't work as good in practice as it does in speeches." In this little book you'll find one-liners, poems, prayers, songs, and more. I liked this line from Chief Luther Standing Bear: "The white race today is but half civilized and unable to order his life into ways of peace and righteousness." (1931). Ain't that the truth! It's refreshing to know that some people are grateful and are not ashamed or afraid to express their gratitude for the land.
Conclusion - Uplifting with an overall theme of peace and respect for each other and everything around us. As it should be. Basic common sense.