Chief Joseph quoted the following: ” My father was the first to see through the schemes of the white men…. He said “My son….when I am gone…you are the chief of these people…. Always remember that your father never sold his country…. This country holds your father’s body. Never sell the bones of your father and mother.” “I pressed my father’s hand and told him I would protect his grave with my life….. A man who would not love his father’s grave is worse than an wild animal.” —————————Chief Joseph 1874 |
|
Prompt for a flash fiction of less than five hundred words: “Skin color might differ but our bones are the same color… “ |
2 Comments on “Australian Aboriginals and American Indians Honored their Land”
I recently visited my father’s grave. He was a World War II veteran and is buried in US cemetery on Long Island, where he lived his whole life after returning from the war in Europe. My mother, who died last year, is buried on the opposite side of his stone. I had worried that a large federal cemetery would feel cold or off-putting, but I found that was not the case at all. Visiting your parents’ grave site is an emotional and spiritual experience, and the context of this cemetery with its phalanxes of markers, row on row in all directions, adds a social dimension to the personal. This is my father’s grave, but also my country’s, my society’s…. I think you’ve hit on a very interesting and provocative prompt for writing.
Thanks Bob,
My writings are about Australian aborigines and their love of their land. Your comment is lovely. Such an experience reminds one of his/her mortality and reminds us to appreciate each day. It’s wonderful to return to the land so our loved ones can visit. Kaye