Talking Stick or Feather
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When tribes gathered
for important meetings or went to tribal council all participants had
the freedom to speak up about any issues or concerns they had. Often people
would have clashes of words and sometimes not everyone was heard or had
the opportunity to speak, so a Talking feather or stick was bought into
the circle.
The Talking Feather or Stick was first taken up by the person who called
the meeting. They then spoke of their concerns or problems and then passed
the feather onto the person on their left, who then spoke of any issues
they wished to bring up or respond to any other speakers. Once the feather
was passed on only the person holding the Talking Feather or Stick was
permitted to speak. This gave others time to reflect on what the speakers
had said and time to respond if they felt the need to. If the feather
was passed to someone whom did not feel the need to speak they simply
honoured the spirit of the Talking Feather or Stick and the spirit of
the tribe before passing it on. The spirit of the Talking Feather or Stick
was considered very powerful and therefore one did not disrespect its
spirit by speaking untruthfully or not from the heart as upsetting the
spirit of the Talking Stick or Feather would bring bad luck and misfortune
to the holder and/or their tribe or family.
Talking Sticks and Feathers may seem a bit unconventional today, but they
are still used in group situations where members feel the need to speak
or share their thoughts. They are often used in emotional counseling
groups, morning talk circles like those in offices and school classrooms.
They work wonderfully for those who find it difficult to speak up in group
situations as it gives them protection and strength and security.
In
Little Hawks workshop for the Talking Stick and Talking Feather
you will learn about their sacredness, what materials to use and their
significance, how to bless your stick or feather and how to cleanse it.
This workshop takes around two hours. All materials are included in the
price of the workshop.
Little hawk can also make a talking stick or feather, in the sacred way, for you or as a gift just email her here with your request.
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