3-14-02
In the time of the grandfathers -
when Red Cloud, and Black Kettle
were leaders of the people -
he was the protector of the tribe,
fighting, as rear guard and
sacrificing his life, if need be,
that the people could escape their enemies
and be safe.
Now, he goes
without food and water,
for four days,
then sheds his blood, every summer
- pierced -
that the people may live another year.
Wasichus / white people ask,
"Are you insane?"
Dog Soldier answers,
"No, not crazy - connected to Creator."
At gatherings, he's easy to spot -
the quiet one, at the end of the line,
behind the children, elders, and others,
holding an empty plate, ensuring
that everyone else gets enough to eat.
The modern day Dog Soldier carries
a Chanunpa wakan / sacred pipe
instead of a rifle, and dies
- symbolically -
during the Wiwang Wachipi wakan / sacred Sun Dance.