Too often we treat memories as unpleasant and so, our memories respond according to the relationship we want to have with them. Yet, memories can guide us through the uncertainties of life and can have strong healing properties. I know that when I face uncertainties and challenges, I conjure up specific memories of my parents or other elders and find something there that helps me work through whatever is confusing or challenging my way.

One time, my mother decided to hand-paint her old Ford from a pale green to black. Of course, these days, that would be unthinkable, but back in the fifties, we made do with what we had. Why black, I’ll never know. Maybe it’s the only paint she had.  It was a hot day and the paint dried as quick as it went on, brush streaks and all. Just as she finished, a dust devil (wamniomni) kicked up and left gritty sand all over the newly painted car! I saw the surprised “o” of her mouth, then she started chuckling and then laughing with gusto. “Cin takuwe ma-fancy kte hcin ca“, she said in between her laughter. “That’s what I get for trying to be fancy”.

Sometimes when I hanker for material things, not practical, useful things, but things just to massage my needy inner being, I think of this particular memory. It twangs a cord in the Lakota belief system that there is an energy out there that renders its own justice; spiritual justice. It lies in wait and pounces on the errant ego.

We can find or build these memories, to guide and heal ourselves and our children.