“Thereupon the Indians smiled, and left.”
Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha was a great man. It should always take only four pages of dialogue to convince anyone of the speaker’s character. It’s a shame we can’t always be as open and honest at all times, but that is the way our culture is today. I’m not attacking it, I’m just acknowledging it: honesty has come a long way from home, and it’s changed because of that.
I’m still trying to determine whether the Indians smiled out of honest courtesy, understanding, or a sarcasm that can only be applauded. Part of me knows it can’t be the last thought, but that same part very much wishes that was the case. I’m leaning towards understanding: the intense acceptance of life around them. The Indians truly were an amazing people, and their culture was just… something, wasn’t it? In comparison, our culture today is a concentric circle that will never share a common boundary with theirs. While honesty and truth was not even considered among their people, as it was so customary, today it is questioned at every turn, from a tongue in cheek comment in a casual conversation to a gavel slamming in a courtroom. The idea of being true to everyone seems so far away, but if just in the past or in the future as well can as of yet not be said without a touch of hope instead of certainty.
Obviously, there are similarities between this reading and the speech given by Chief Seattle besides the obvious “they’re both natives in contact with the settlers.” The key theme is that both leaders, and the people that follow them, chose to live as they were and as they wished as best as possible without giving in to the settlers wishes. They were the first punks, really, only I’m not sure how native music compares to a good three chord kick to the chest. I make light of the topic, honestly, because the entire message Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha delivered seemed more positive. Maybe it was the smiling, maybe it was the positive outlook he had, or maybe it was the fact that the Chief seemed to have a more... calm tone. Regardless, the reading does give a new look into the Indians way of life, and was very enlightening. I’m also glad that there was someone in time who used the phrase “eye-opening” as commonly as I do.
Again, I say that Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha was a great man, but I should add that he was also an admirable man. He stood up to a greater power in defense of his beliefs. Such a thing should not go unnoticed. It’s a shame, then, that no one felt the same way in his time, and the only notice that was taken was by the greater power.
5 comments:
Your analysis is a thought provoking comparison between primative people's culture and today's questionable value system. You have a wonderful way of expressing yourself, almost poetic. Strangely, it felt as if you were shrugging your shoulders as your final statement. This was a pleasure to read.
I completely agree with you that it is disgraceful how deceitful and untruthful our society is. It was refreshing to read about a leader who actually stuck with their beliefs. Today political figures seem to take a strong stance on an issue one day (based on their own beliefs) and another the next day (based on popular opinion).
I am intrigued by your wondering about the nature of the Indian smile. I choose to believe it is sarcasm, but I can see where you find hope in understanding. I would suggest one thing for your conideration; you make a blanket statement, that "The Indians truly were an amazing people." I am hesitant to make so absolute an analysis of a bygone culture. Remember that each tribe had it's own ideals, values, morals, laws, and punishments--not to mention being made of imperfect humans.
Good job, though. Very insightful observations!
Thank you for such a beautifully, well written analysis on the reading from "Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha". When I read this passage I questioned the sarcastic tone as well. I think I just kept reading instead of acknowledging the significance of that moment when clearly the Native American people were acting with sarcasm.
I must agree with Woody though for a moment. When you stated,"the Indians truly were an amazing people". This statement is generalizing all Native American people. After reading chapter 2 of out text book "Experiencing the World's Religions" it is very obvious that the religions of native societies varied greatly. Some ancient cultures, such as the Aztec's even justified human sacrifice. And, that probably wouldn't be considered to be very "amazing" by modern day standards.
Overall I did really enjoy your reflection though. It is apparant that you have a great writing style. I can't wait to read your next one.
Your a very good writer. Much better than I. HA. Anyways I was very intrigued by what you had to say. I love how you compared what SA-GO-YE-WAT-HA had to say versus todays society. Very good to bring up the smile. You made a very good point on whether or not it was sarcastic. Glad i was able to read your blog.
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