Time, an ever-flowing river, carries us forward, marking the cadence of existence. It’s within this current that lives are etched, defined by moments of purpose or shadowed by regrets of opportunities missed. On a particular September day, a sense of profound peace permeated the air as prayers, songs, and the rhythmic pulse of the drum intertwined with the presence of both buffalo and humans in a serene meadow, a place where time seemed to momentarily pause. The relentless march of time, however, continues, ushering in the changing seasons and serving as a constant reminder of its unwavering passage.
The winds were hushed, devoid of the biting sting of snow or the gentle patter of rain. The air resonated with the melodic calls of birds communicating across the landscape. Buffalo, emblems of the Great Plains, rested peacefully, some engaging in the ritual of dusting themselves in the soft earth, their actions reflecting a simple, harmonious existence within their family units.
As Scott began his prayers with the sacred pipe, a conduit to the spiritual realm, his intentions focused on and for the buffalo, it felt as though a doorway opened, connecting the past, the present, and the future. This convergence of time allowed for a profound sense of continuity and a recognition of the interconnectedness of all things.
When Dr. Mann began her prayers, spoken in her ancestral language, and lifted her song specifically for the buffalo and for her People, a deep and resonant joy filled the hearts of those present. Her voice, a precious instrument of tradition, carried the weight of generations and the hopes for a future where the bond between the people and the buffalo remains unbroken.
The moment John began to play the drum, the rhythmic beat echoing across the meadow, and the song ascended into the sky, an overwhelming sense of gratitude washed over the gathering. The collective spirit, united in prayer and song, created a powerful force, a testament to the enduring connection between humanity and the natural world.
There was an abundance of blessings to acknowledge and countless heartfelt prayers being offered by this family gathered in the presence of the buffalo. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of unity and purpose, a shared commitment to honoring the past and safeguarding the future.
Time seemed to collapse, uniting the actions of ancestors with the present moment, fostering a hope that future generations would continue to uphold these traditions, carrying them forward through the currents of time. What the buffalo mean to Native Americans (our people) extends far beyond sustenance; it encompasses a spiritual and cultural identity.
To gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the buffalo to Native American people, particularly the Cheyenne, the following story from Dr. Henrietta Mann provides valuable insight. By learning about their history and traditions, we can work together to ensure their preservation for the collective future.
Dr. Mann explains, "The So’taa’eo’o, a distinct group within the Cheyenne Nation, are known as the buffalo people. They are the keepers of our sacred buffalo cap and the associated ceremony, the Sun Dance, also referred to as the ‘New Life Lodge.’ Members of our spiritual community proudly identify as ‘the buffalo people.’"
She continues, "As a buffalo person, I recognize my inherent connection to these sacred four-legged beings, the buffalo, who have sustained our people throughout history. Tragically, they suffered a similar fate to the indigenous peoples of this land, driven to the brink of extinction through systematic destruction."
"Today, the plight of the buffalo people remains a concern. It deeply saddens me to know that some of these magnificent creatures will not survive to witness another spring. I felt privileged to participate in a pilgrimage and to behold them in all their ethereal beauty. Yet, I couldn’t help but wonder, what more could I do?"
Dr. Mann reflects, "I could only offer my thoughts, my voice, my prayers, and my songs, expressing my profound love and respect for them. Tears flowed as I contemplated their continued sacrifice, their unwavering commitment to blessing us with their lives. I am eternally grateful." What the buffalo mean to Native Americans (our people) is embodied in this act of gratitude.
The buffalo stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, embodying endurance and compassion. They continue to represent both physical and spiritual sustenance for the people, providing an enduring link to the sacred past, a lifeline that extends into the present and reaches far into the future.
This connection is a "heart line," a deeply ingrained bond that brings happiness and goodness to all relations. Dr. Mann describes greeting them with joy, echoing the actions of her great-grandmother, White Buffalo Woman, from over a century ago. The buffalo people imparted wisdom to her, and she, in turn, has touched and influenced generations since. For this lineage, she expresses her heartfelt gratitude to both her great-grandmother and to the buffalo themselves.
Dr. Mann concludes with a prayer: "I send my prayers out to the Above Spirit, to the Earth, and to the four sacred directions of the universe, seeking their continued protection and safety. Hahoo!"
~Dr. Henrietta Mann, Cheyenne~
The buffalo are more than just animals to Native Americans; they are integral to their culture, spirituality, and way of life. What the buffalo mean to Native Americans (our people) cannot be overstated. They are a symbol of strength, resilience, and the interconnectedness of all living things. The buffalo provided food, clothing, shelter, and tools, and they are deeply woven into the spiritual beliefs and ceremonies of many tribes. The near-extinction of the buffalo in the 19th century was a devastating blow to Native American communities, and their recovery is seen as a symbol of hope and cultural revitalization. The ongoing efforts to protect and restore buffalo populations are a testament to the enduring bond between Native Americans and these magnificent animals.
The story of the buffalo is also a story of resilience and cultural survival. Despite the challenges they have faced, Native American communities have never forgotten the importance of the buffalo. They have worked tirelessly to protect and restore buffalo populations, and they continue to honor the buffalo in their ceremonies and traditions.
The buffalo is a symbol of hope for the future. As Native American communities continue to reclaim their culture and traditions, the buffalo will continue to play a vital role in their lives. The What the buffalo mean to Native Americans (our people) is a story of connection, respect, and gratitude.