Ya’at’eeh
What comes to mind when you hear the term, NAVAJO?- Indians, Native Americans, Aboriginals?-these are just of the words that comes to my mind whenever I hear of tribes like this one.
Last Saturday, February 18 2012, I was given the opportunity to step back in time and see how the ancient ones-the Navajos lived.Knowing more about their history, culture, and food.
I have to admit that when I was studying the History of North America back then in college, it is the Indian Civilization that really thrilled me to know more about the Native American culture.And so, you can only imagine the thrill and excitement that I felt when I heard of having the opportunity to see the ruins, the people, and to know more the culture first hand-from the source themselves!
Our day started attending three talks/activities that were all conducted by the Navajos themselves.
The First stop talked about the Navajo Culture, Origin, and how they have adopted the modern technology over the years. Despite the drastic changes, it is very evident with the way they talk that their principles are still being guided by their Navajo Culture.
When they introduced themselves, other than the “Navajo language”that was used, it is interesting to know that they include their grandparents clan in their introduction. This has truly amazed me because I have never thought that first, the language has been preserved, and second of all, the way their clans are well represented in their introduction-in other words, you rarely hear these kinds of introductions these days.
( a Navajo lady meets a Filipina)
Our Second stop was all about herbs and Spices-this part really tested my stamina since I am going to try something that is ALL ORGANIC . However, these herbs have a lot of sacred meanings to them which makes it very interesting to learn from.
These ladies are very funny and entertaining! Not to mention one of them is actually a MOVIE STAR!! They informed us on how these herbs means a lot in their lifestyle and culture and this has been very exciting to listen to and learn from the experts themselves!
The third stop that morning was the arts and crafts. The Arts and Crafts department really makes one curious mind thinks on how they make these stuff effective, efficient, and sellable despite the competition in the global market. I think what makes them different is the authenticity that they bring to the market and this is what makes them in demand.
After these activities, the ladies from the Navajo tribe provided us with their staple food: Fried bread, beans, tomatoes, and cheese- OH YUM!!!
After we ate this delicious meal, we were off to the NAVAJO Reservation Tour wherein we went to again, three different places:The Hogback Trading Corporation, The Shiprock, and finally, NAPI!
In Hogback Trading Corporation, Mr. Tom(the owner of the place) talked to us about the Navajo belief, traditions, and some unexplained stories that he himself has experienced with the people from the tribe. His family sells rugs, Indian art, and jewelry which are extremely EXPENSIVE!
Our next stop that afternoon was THE SHIPROCK
The Navajo name Tsé Bitʼaʼí, “rock with wings” or “winged rock”, for the peak refers to the legend of the great bird that brought them from the north to their present lands.he peak and surrounding land are of great religious and historical significance to the Navajos. It is mentioned in many Navajo myths and legends. Foremost is the peak’s role as the agent that brought the Navajo to the southwest. According to one legend, after being transported from another place, the Navajos lived on the monolith, “coming down only to plant their fields and get water.” One day, the peak was struck by lightning, obliterating the trail and leaving only a sheer cliff, and stranding the women and children on top to starve. The presence of people on the peak is forbidden “for fear they might stir up the chį́įdii (ghosts), or rob their corpses.” (source: Discovernavajo.com)
Everyone has their own beliefs and story to tell, and that includes the Navajo tribe. I am truly amazed on how they were able to preserve this culture all these years of constant changes and modernization.I have learned so much from their culture, food, and principles in life. This has indeed one of the most unforgettable experiences that I have ever had with a tribe here in the USA.
“Ahe’hee NAVAJO!
