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TheTraditional Indian and Self Discipline
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The American Indian's life traditionally is full of ceremonies and rituals requiring self discipline up through the present day.
In the summer months many Native American tribes are holding dances, pow wows, ceremonies and other community events throughout the United States. Self discipline is ingrained in many of these activities such as when taking part in a sweat lodge ceremony, when fasting for a vision or as part of a ceremony, when dancing around the fire or to the beat of the drum, or as a participant in a stick ball game. In each case the individual must exhibit a great amount of self discipline to take part in the cultural and traditional ceremony or event as it was intended when given by the Creator. American Indian teachings in the broadest sense are to only take as much as you need, when an animal is killed for food thank them for their sacrifice, to treat each other with respect (even the little children), to uphold our elderly and to preserve as much as possible on this earth for the future generations.
Our traditions are based on self discipline not only to preserve our way of life but to live in harmony with each other as human beings and maintain a deep connection with our spirituality. For instance, in Oklahoma this time of year marks a significant time for the Mvskoke (Creek) people that are an immense demonstration of self discipline. The Green Corn Festival (also called Green Corn Dance or Ceremony) is a Native American celebration and religious ceremony. The festival typically lasts for three to four days at the least and varies from tribe to tribe of the South East (Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, etc.) For example, the Yuchi tribe celebration begins in late April and early May and last until about the third week of July. The opening day of the ceremony varies across tribes depending when the corn is ripe. Corn is not to be eaten until the Creator or in Mvskoke, Heseketvmese’ (Maker of Breath), has been given proper thanks.
During the Green Corn, members of the tribe give thanks for the corn, rain, sun, and a good harvest among other things. The ritual of thanksgiving is sacred to many American Indians and the Green Corn is a central part of the Mvskoke religion. Folk tales and storytelling are popular when members of the native community are camped out during the stomp dances and Green Corn Ceremonials. But as said, mainly the Green Corn is well-regarded as a religious renewal for those whom are totally immersed in the religion.
The "Black Drink" is also a way the Mvskoke cleanse themselves internally and is another sign of renewal during ceremonies and the Green Corn. The drink causes vomiting. It purifies participants from minor sins and leaves them in a state of perfect innocence. It also gives them courage to be daring during war and strength to keep friendships. Scratching is sometimes part of a ceremony to exemplify the self discipline to not flinch or cry out when hurt. Every day, except those designated as fasting days, of a stomp dance or during the Green Corn, Indians feast and enjoy each others company. Everyone can participate and enjoy the food and give thanks for the good harvest, health, family, and life.
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