By: Jodi Rave
MILES CITY - Many stories start by introducing a living person. This story starts with what some describe as a living object - a sacred hoop.
The hoop is a willow branch rounded into a circle. One hundred eagle feathers have been tied around the circumference. Those who come across the hoop say it wields power. It is believed that each feather carries people's prayers to the Spirit World, to the Creator.
The hoop and its keeper, Don Coyhis, traveled last month to every tribal community in Montana, four correctional facilities and the state Capitol. At each of the 13 stops, Coyhis explained how to live a life of wellness through culture, including songs, language and ceremonies. People came to the Hoop to offer prayers.
"Being around this hoop changed me, innermost me," said Vince, a young man at the Pine Hills Youth Correctional Facility in Miles City.
Vince thanked Coyhis. He said recent events had taken a toll on him. He said he recently lost a friend. He felt alone, and he was losing hope. "I was left with no breath."Coyhis assured Vince he had just earned the respect of everyone in the room, he said. Coyhis reminded the young men at Pine Hills that they were loved and important."Our people want you back home," he said. "It's time to come back home."
Read this very interesting article here: http://www.billingsgazette.net/articles/2007/09/05/news/state/18-medicine.txt
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