My Elder
I dedicate this to "Running Deer"
"Elder"
His skin is tanned
and wrinkled
But his eyes are bright
and clear.
His voice has a
slight waver,
and it is getting harder for him
to hear.
He walks with an
unfaltering step,
with a strong and
purposeful stride,
And everywhere he goes
it seems
there are young ones by
his side.
He tells them stories
of yesterday,
of the heroes of days
gone by,
he tells them stories that makes
them laugh
and some that make
them cry.
He teaches them about
their People,
about their culture
and tradition,
He teaches them honor
and respect
for the Creator and
all creation.
But the best lesson that he
teaches them
is the life he lives
each day. For no matter what
confronts him,
no matter what comes
his way,
The Elder faces life with
the reality
that what is meant to be
will be,
He lives his life
with dignity,
He lives his life
with pride.
His life reflects
the balance
and the peace he
has inside.
The Elder smiles as
he watches
the young ones run
and play,
For he knows that because
of them
his People will have
another day.
Written By Marty Soaring Eagle~
I love you Papa,~Youngheart~May,11th,2005