-- government can't provide what is most important

By Phil Shapley (White Wolf)

In the past, Native people have had various levels of commitment to the Creator and His ways. When this was sincere, they obtained what they needed and experienced peace and happiness, such as in the Iroquois Confederation.

Today, few persons have a deep, personal and respectful relationship with their Creator. A community can not prosper until many respond to this though respectful individuals will receive much help.

What has gone wrong? First, people have turned from the good teachings of the past. Some engage in witchcraft. Many are caught up in the wants of the Wasichu (white man)-- materialism and grabbing things without any appreciation for them. Some lie, cheat or rob to obtain money, cars, fancy houses, big TVs, prestige, etc. Then there is alcoholism and drug use which drive away the Maker's spirit and creates loveless parents. Also important is that the Creator gave sex as a sacred gift to be used by a man and a women to raise children in a loving home. This gift is greatly abused today. Others, though not evil, feel hopeless with little feeling for the Creator and people. This hopelessness can come about by abuse, uncaring alcoholic parents, prejudice, lack of work opportunities, schools, etc.

I don't mean to imply that the future is hopeless. Far from it! Natives are a chosen people! Latter Day Saints, the Iroquois and the Hopi know that they are a Lost Tribe of Israel. Many Native groups have traditions of their missing White Brother who will return and of a special relationship with Him. Evidence of this can be seen in the deep moral teachings and respectful ceremonies of Native groups. The Creator wants to help!

There is a great potential within the Indian people! Have you met any finer people than Native Elders who have recovered from alcoholism? And are there any more loving and caring people than those Natives who have their life in reasonable order.

Matters are not hopeless! There is a loving and all wise Creator who wants to help as soon as any person sincerely turns to Him for help and seeks to live His wise teachings. We are not expected to live His teachings perfectly, only to sincerely work at it. Return to your loving Maker and He will help you in all aspects of life. Your needs will be provided and you will have peace of mind and a confidence that you can not now imagine. You will be spiritually rich. The Scriptures are full of stories about this. I have experienced all of this!