Chief Joseph

My grandfather often spoke of “Indian Guides,” otherwise known as spirit guides. According to him, a unique Native American spirit was assigned to each individual to protect and assist us down our life’s path. As a child, my “Indian Guide” was Chief Joseph.

Chief Joseph is a Native American spirit who appears to me dressed in jeans, and depending upon the day a black cowboy hat or full head dress. As a rule, he never said much. And, from his post at the front door of the home I grew up in, he protected me and my family ensuring only the highest and the best entered the home.

Chief Joseph was a kind spirit and I found much solace in his presence and honored him with offerings of gemstones and tobacco. Perhaps for the offerings, or the recognition of my gift and vulnerability, he took a particular liking to me (then again who wouldn’t??). I don’t, however, believe he was my guide. My guide, Clarissa, (perhaps named for the television program “Clarissa Explains it All”) is a whimsical, fairylike presence with a strong goddess-like energy. Because she is not Native American and my grandfather insisted our guides were Indians, for a long time I did not recognize her as my guide. After his passing and when I began to study with other teachers, I realized the reason my grandfather referred to guides as “Indian” was because that’s what his was! He only knew from his experience! Clarissa, was indeed my guide.

So who, you may be asking yourself, is Chief Joseph? And, why was and is he around? Until the early 1850’s the land upon which my childhood home was built was part of the Buffalo Creek Reservation. On rainy and stormy nights, if you listen closely the Native chants and drums are audible on the winds. And, it is my belief that Chief Joseph is a Seneca Indian charged with protecting the sanctimony of the sacred land. Since I have left home, I no longer find him within the four walls of my mother’s home, rather he slowly walks the land offering prayers.

To him I am forever grateful. He protected me even though he didn’t have to. So although he may not be my guide, he is my hero.