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Sunny is growing up in the traditional way and shares her grandmother with her pupils as well as her apprentice Shung'. There are many things Sunny doesn't understand about this sharing especially since the pupils are white, but she trusts her grandmother. We are introduced to Madame Bianchoff a Russian ballet instructor, and Otis. Cheering Woman, Madame Bianchoff and Otis are teachers, playing an important role in Sunny's upbringing since each brings a body of knowledge that will balance both cultures for Sunny. Through Otis, the reader is introduced to the sacredness of the Sweat Lodge, Inipi, and its preparation and meaning. We are able to see the ceremony, hear the prayers and chants. We can apply the teachings to ourselves. We now understand that our life experiences can be our best teachers. Through stories of visible teachers such as the spider, Sunny is introduced to the knowledge of the Above Powers in the Universe. We are also part of a Yuwipi healing ceremony, which is a summoning of the spirits. It is interesting to note that at the end of the ceremony, Sunny receives a gift of ballet slippers that will not only shape her future, but will prepare her to walk in both the white and red worlds. At this time, Sunny is also preparing for her upcoming Hanblecheyapi, or vision quest, a ceremony that will give her direction for her future. We use all our senses of sight, sound, taste, touch and smell as we join Sunny in her Hanblecheyapi. We understand her fear as she meets the elements of wind, rain, lightning and thunder, and the demands of her body. As if all this is not enough, swarming insects and mosquitoes add to her misery. Despite all this, Sunny does not give up, and prays for guidance. She merges with the Wolf and is able to experience running with complete freedom. She still has more lessons to experience, including the lessons of duality from the snake. She completes her Hanblecheyapi as she learns through the eyes of Wanbli Gle'ska, the Golden Eagle, who tells her that she can fly through the sun if she comes in honor. Through the closing Inipi ceremony we hear the interpretation of Sunny's Hanblechyapi and learn the significance of her naming ceremony. We are again reminded of the cycles of life as Cheering Woman prepares for the end of her life on Mother Earth. This time is not sad; Cheering Woman shares her happy, loving memories with Sunny as she prepares for her departure. It is the apple tree and the sight of the rainbow heralding a new day that connects Sunny with her grandmother after her death. |
© 2000 The Red Pathway Learning Center & Foundation, Inc.
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Wind Wolf Woman |