The wisdom of elders holds a profound resonance, especially within cultures deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality. Crosslin Smith, a respected Cherokee traditionalist, healer, and member of the Keetoowah Society, dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the ancient teachings passed down through generations. He emphasized the critical importance of maintaining spiritual traditions for individual and collective well-being, a message he conveyed with passion and conviction at the 35th annual Symposium on the American Indian at Northeastern State University. His words serve as a powerful reminder to reconnect with ancestral knowledge and to live in harmony with the natural world. This article explores the key tenets of Smith’s teachings, providing insights into Cherokee cosmology, healing practices, and the enduring relevance of traditional values in contemporary society. Crosslin Smith reminds us of the "Cherokee Healer Says to Remember and Follow the Traditions".
A Childhood Steeped in Tradition
Born in 1929, Crosslin Smith’s early life was deeply intertwined with the cultural practices of his community. He recalled cherished memories of attending ceremonial gatherings where women prepared feasts of chicken and pork, and children walked barefoot through the dust, a tangible connection to the earth. These gatherings were more than just social events; they were vital spaces for transmitting knowledge and reinforcing communal bonds. Families from various clans would gather, with elders sharing stories of the past, analyzing the present, and contemplating the future.
Children were expected to listen attentively, absorbing the wisdom shared by their elders. While not all children paid heed, those who did gained invaluable lessons, some of whom, like Smith himself, eventually became spiritual leaders. He spoke of a "keen sense of perception" he possessed as a child, a gift that allowed him to deeply understand the teachings and that remained with him throughout his life. Smith’s upbringing provided him with a solid foundation in Cherokee traditions, shaping his worldview and guiding his path as a healer and spiritual guide.
Ancient Wisdom and Prophecy
Smith’s teachings were rooted in the belief that the Cherokee people had a direct connection with the "spiritual father" in the distant past. This connection served as the source of profound lessons and prophecies. One such prophecy foretold the arrival of Europeans and the subsequent encroachment upon Cherokee lands. The people were instructed not to resist, but rather to "move toward the setting sun" as the encroachment occurred.
Following this guidance, the Cherokee migrated westward, settling across the land. However, they were also warned to halt their journey upon reaching the prairie. Crossing the prairie, they were told, would lead to the loss of their identity and spirituality. The Keetoowah, a traditional Cherokee society, ultimately settled in northeastern Oklahoma, adhering to the ancient prophecies and striving to preserve their cultural heritage. Smith’s teachings emphasized the importance of honoring these prophecies and maintaining a connection to the land as vital components of Cherokee identity.
The Creation Story and the Breath of Life
Central to Smith’s teachings was the Cherokee creation story, which provides a unique perspective on the origins of humanity and the interconnectedness of all living things. According to the story, the creator, before the existence of humans, fashioned beings from the earth. He took saliva from his mouth and nose, mixed it with mud using a stick, and sculpted the first humans: Grandfather Brown and Grandmother Brown, figures representing the Cherokee people.
The creator then used different materials to create other races: white dust mixed with clay to form the "blues," ancestors of white people; yellow powder mixed with clay to form the ancestors of Asian people; and black dust mixed with clay to form the ancestors of black people.
Smith emphasized that the creator "blew his breath" upon these clay images, bringing them to life and imbuing them with spirit. This act of creation is the foundation of the Cherokee healing tradition, particularly the use of breath and moisture in healing practices. Smith claimed to have witnessed the power of this tradition countless times, attributing its efficacy not to his own abilities but to the spirit working through him. He stressed that humility, kindness, and consideration are essential qualities for a healer, allowing the spirit to manifest its healing power. This creation story illustrates the profound respect for all life forms that is central to Cherokee spirituality, as well as the power of the Creator. Crosslin Smith, a Cherokee Healer Says to Remember and Follow the Traditions.
The Interconnection of All Things
Smith further elucidated the interconnectedness of all living things through the concept of the four elements: air, water, heat (sun and fire), and earth. He explained that humans share the same air with all creatures, from frogs and snakes to plants. This shared breath signifies a fundamental connection that transcends species. "Realize your connection to all things of the past, all things of the present, all things of the future, through the air," he urged.
Water, another vital element, should be respected and protected from pollution. Heat, derived from the sun and fire, provides warmth and energy. The earth, from which humans were initially formed, provides food, shelter, and a home. Smith cautioned against viewing dirt as "dirty," emphasizing its preciousness as a source of life and healing. He asserted that "more healing could be done with dirt than with plants," highlighting the earth’s inherent power. These elements are not just physical components but also represent spiritual forces that connect all aspects of creation.
Overcoming Adversity Through Spirituality
Smith believed that adhering to these spiritual principles could help individuals overcome various challenges, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and depression. He emphasized the importance of "making things right with the universe and everything in it," regardless of personal connections or geographical boundaries. "Even if you don’t know the Iraqi people, even if you don’t know people who are living in prison, even if you don’t know people who are terminally ill, spirit to spirit you can make it right," he said, highlighting the power of empathy and spiritual connection.
Smith encouraged people to move beyond "their little organizations" and embrace universal spiritual principles, advocating for humility, kindness, and consideration in all interactions. He taught that "the spirit never dies," transitioning from one eternity to another, offering hope and reassurance in the face of life’s challenges.
The Enduring Legacy of Cherokee Tradition
Crosslin Smith’s teachings serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and practicing Cherokee traditions. His emphasis on spiritual connection, respect for nature, and the interconnectedness of all things offers a valuable framework for navigating the complexities of modern life. By remembering and following the ancient teachings, individuals can find strength, healing, and a deeper understanding of their place in the world. The wisdom of Cherokee tradition, as shared by Crosslin Smith, continues to resonate, offering guidance and inspiration to those seeking a more meaningful and harmonious existence. Cherokee Healer Says to Remember and Follow the Traditions.