6 Comments
User's avatar
Kaz Toelken's avatar

This touches me deeply.

Expand full comment
Sherry Barwick's avatar

You are an incredible blessing to these people and many more

Expand full comment
Andi Penner's avatar

Beautiful tribute, Bernie. I'm glad to know you now live here in the land of enchantment.

Expand full comment
Bernie Ellis's avatar

Thanks Andi. Me too. I fell in love with Jicarita the first time I saw Her and it only took four more decades to make the move. That decision is by far the greatest gift I've ever given myself.

Expand full comment
Ann Williams's avatar

Wonderfully written, Bernie. Thank you for sharing these magical, moving personal experiences. Added to the uniquely powerful spiritual culture of Native communities and tribal generational deep love and loyalty is the fact that per capita, more Indians join the American military than any other demographic. A testament to their commitment to national patriotism.

Expand full comment
Bernie Ellis's avatar

You're right. And despite the lingering prejudices regarding Indians and alcohol, fewer Indian people drink than all other ethnic groups in this country. Unfortunately, those that do suffer a disproportionate amount of harm from alcohol. The same can be said for my Tribe -- the Irish.

Expand full comment