First, let me say this IS NOT a "New Age" page. There is nothing new about our belief systems. Secondly it is imperative the reader understands that Amerindians come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and beliefs. It is a common and critical mistake by many to assume that Amerindians are simply Amerindians. There are over 700 nations and no two are exactly alike. The best way to think of the situation is like a huge Europe. There are tribes, but tribes are family units, not nations. For example, if your family name is Clark, then you are of the Clark tribe. If you live in N.Y. then you are of the Clark tribe of the Nation of N.Y. There are 50 nations in this country. Another area of common misconception is the perception of the individual Amerindian. Folks we are NOT all dark skinned. For example Cherokee and Cree could pass for white people and did so during the early 1800's when Jackson conducted the infamous "Trail of Tears." The fact is most people form their conceptions watching movies, usually stocked with Italians, French and Mexican Indians. Yes there are dark skinned Amerindians, but like any other Nation containing varied races, stereotyping is an erroneous habit. Another popular misconception is that Amerindians can't grow facial hair. This is brought on by the fact that few did for reasons of hygiene. The hair was plucked or singed from the face, arms, legs, and often the head too. Examples of this are shown in the images on this page. If you doubt these facts simply go to your local library and look up the paintings by Catlin, Bodmer, Mckenney & Hall and others of the day. You will see Amerindians with facial hair, wavy hair, and even curly hair. I have included some pictures of Native Americans as they were seen by those who were there. Now, on to the philosophy. The first thing to understand is that I don't speak for all Amerindians. We are individuals, and as such we have different views and concepts. I carry those concepts that were taught to me by my grandfather and other tribal elders. To save space and simplify I will adopt a question and answer format based on the most common questions asked by my students. Are you mono or poly theistic? We believe in one Creator period. Although we know the Creator can assume any form He chooses just as he does in the Bible. He appeared as a burning bush, a dove, a pillar of smoke, and a pillar of fire among others. Simply put, he appears in a form the observer he is communicating with can relate to. Do you believe in a Savior? Most Amerindians are Christians today, but many of us still hold traditional beliefs. Traditionally we had no concept of a Savior. We did not need one. When God visited us we did not kill him! God made us the way we are, and as long as we serve our purpose for which He made us we have nothing to be saved from. Even the Bible says that 1. God created all things. 2. That all rulers are placed in power by God ( Romans 13). This includes the "bad" ones too. 3. That He fore knew us before the foundation of the world. In other words God made us to be a specific person. The result leaves us two choices. Be what God created us to be or not. If we are simply being what God made us to be, then what are we to be redeemed from? We believe this very strongly, and have a saying that reflects this aspect of our philosophy: " A warrior would rather die than act against his nature." So then, how does one find out what his/her purpose is? This is done several ways. Usually the traditional Native American will, at some point, perform a Vision Quest. This is a method of communicating with the Creator to seek answers to personal questions. Most of us do not discuss ceremony in public, we do not believe this is proper. However, I would like to make it clear that traditional Vision Quest does NOT depend on drugs to induce the vision. Visions are sent by God, and require no assistance from such things. The seeker only needs a willing and faith-filled heart. In seeking ones purpose it is also important to apply common sense. Most of us know where our talents are, or have a strong calling to a specific purpose. The Vision Quest is a prayer, and like any prayer it must be a two-way call. In other words, remember to listen and let the Creator get a word in edgewise.

If you have ANY questions just E-MAIL me. I will periodicaly add to this page so visit again soon!