Tribes and Tributes

Greetings Friend,
'Klahanie' is a word from the Chinook Tribe who are located on the Pacific Northwest of North America. The definition of 'Klahanie', is generally accepted as meaning 'The Great Outdoors.' I have a great love of Klahanie. It triggers in me awe-inspiring thoughts of when I lived in Canada.
The West Coast Tribes of British Columbia have a special place in my heart. They are a proud and noble people. Their spirituality, their respect for Nature are an example our modern world could truly learn from. They are in harmony with the environment. We can learn from the 'music' of their souls.
When I was fifteen, way back in the Easter of 1969, I went on a walk in support of the indigenous Tribes of British Columbia. It was called 'Moccasin Miles.' Side by side, we walked and we talked with the indigenous people. The walk was a three day event that covered 100 miles. It commenced from Vancouver and ended in a small town aptly named 'Hope', British Columbia. (For all you trivia buffs-'Hope' was the town they used in 'Rambo-First Blood.')
I remember on the third day, with 30 miles to go, just how much pain my feet were in. It had rained the entire time and I discovered the holes in my trainers. My socks were soaked and the bottom of my feet were completely covered in blisters. Yet, through all this pain, I was determined to cross the finish line.
Nearing the end of the journey but still not seeing the town, we started up a comical chant. "There is no Hope, there is no Hope", we sang. Then round that final corner we came upon the sign "Welcome to Hope." We cheered and we cried. We had found 'Hope' and it was time to celebrate our achievement.
So now, when my life gets me down. I focus back on that wonderful time. I think of those proud and noble people. I think of how they extended their hand of friendship to me. On that walk, we were all united in a common cause. The message at the end was hope. I carry that hope in my heart.
Thank you for your time. Warm regards klahanie.