To Pine Ridge with Love

Good morning, everyone~

Our Lakota brothers and sisters have asked me to say, "Wopila" or thank you for all that you have done for them!

Despite the snow and frigid temps out West, the Silver Sleigh made it safely to its destination on Pine Ridge Reservation and its wonderful contents were distributed to those in the greatest need on Saturday morning.

Beginning with the Thunder Hawk family, who recently lost their mother, the distribution of goods began with those who recently lost a loved one, followed by the elderlies and the children.

For me, the most poignant moment was when one of the Elders looked at me and said, "You didn't forget me. You didn't forget us. Wopila - thank you. Please tell everyone in Michigan and Indiana, thank you."

Children who arrived wearing t-shirts, left wearing warm coats, mittens, hats, books and a toy. Elderlies received warm clothing, food, medicines and lots of hugs from our Michigan team.

The firewood was put to immediate use to build a bonfire to keep everyone warm as we waited for the semi to be unloaded by hand. Many grateful families left with wood to keep their homes warm.

Even the dogs were taken care of, as we unloaded 200 lbs. of dog food!

On Friday evening, an Inipi (sweat lodge) was held in honor of all of you. Many prayers of thanks were offered as we prayed, sang and smoked the sacred chanunpa (prayer pipe).

Later this week, you will be able to see photos and hear a message from Mike Little Boy Sr., on my website. Chief Little Boy has asked me to begin writing his autobiography, "Thunder Snare Walking," and creating a documentary about our annual delivery to Pine Ridge.

Together, as Mike likes to say, we are making history between the cultures. Thank you all for being part of this positive change.

Many of you have asked me and I have agreed to keep the "To Pine Ridge with Love" page on my website, open for donations throughout the year. Please check the page later this week for wonderful photos and a very special message~

Wopila!

Mitakuye Oyasin~

Denise
--
The Temple Within llc
www.TempleWithin.com
616-752-8149

"Take charge of your life and your destiny. Become the Dream you had for yourself before you were born." Chief Leonard Crow Dog