A Poem From The Hopi Indian Nation To Help Us Reflect On The Journey

When you were born into this world the universe gave you a gift. It was the gift of colorguard. If only for one year or for one season, this gift has changed who you are. It gave you friends you will never forget and moments that will be stalled in time for the rest of your life. Your youth is forever changed. Whether it was  just one year or your 30th year in the activity, it got inside you and you will never be the same again. It's amazing that this activity was found by accident for many of us. We responded to a flyer hanging on the wall of the school or a friend talked us into it, because we had nothing else to do. I believe however, that the activity finds us; we don't find it. It's the hand of fate. It's soulful and it's as real as life can ever be.

For many people the season is over, but there's a handful that is headed to Dayton. It's time. You are about to perform in the show of your life. It's the world championships and you will never forget it, regardless of the outcome. Before you step on the floor take a moment to reflect on this wonderful journey you have been on. Listen to the souls of those that came before you and take as step forward for those that will come after you. Reflect on the fact that very few people in the world will ever participate in anything called, "The World Championships." Live in the moment and thank the universe for your gift of performance, of art, of friendship, and mostly of pageantry. This is your time and it will never come again.

The following poem come from the Hopi Nation. The word "Hopi" means "peaceful people." They believe that we are one with all beings we share this earth with and believe in the connection and synergy of community. They believe in the connection we have with our past and that there is no future without learning how to truly live in the present. This poem is for you. Read it and reflect on its meaning. Let it become a part of you and good luck in Dayton.

You have been telling the people that this is the Eleventh Hour.
Now you must go back and tell the people that this is the Hour.
And there are things to be considered:
Where are you living?
What are you doing?
What are your relationships?
Are you in right relation?
Where is your water?
Know your garden.
It is time to speak your Truth.
Create your community.
Be good to each other.
And do not look outside yourself for the leader.

This could be a good time!

There is a river flowing now very fast.
It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid.
They will try to hold on to the shore.
They will feel they are being torn apart, and they will suffer greatly.
Know the river has its destination.

The elders say we must let go of the shore, push off into the middle of
the river, keep our eyes open, and our heads above the water.
See who is in there with you and celebrate.
At this time in history, we are to take nothing personally.
Least of all, ourselves.
For the moment that we do, our spiritual growth and journey comes to a halt.

The time of the lone wolf is over. Gather yourselves!
Banish the word struggle from your attitude and your vocabulary.
All that we do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration.
We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.

-The Elders, Oraibi, Arizona Hopi Nation