Bozho nikan
(Hello friends),
So here we are in the midst of the holiday season and a year rapidly running out of days. I scratch my head in disbelief, and I’m almost convinced that an hour of time isn’t as long as it once was.
I would like to start my last column of 2017 by saying that I truly appreciate the people of our great Nation. I consider it a blessing to know so many of the members of our tribe. I’ve had so many great experiences over the years while getting to know and interact with other Potawatomi. Thank you for allowing me to serve as your Representative, something I enjoy very much.
It’s not easy being Potawatomi in today’s fast-paced world. It’s challenging to make space in our lives for virtually anything Potawatomi. Our modern culture places so many different demands on our time, but I truly believe that we all know who we are and share a deep appreciation for our rich culture, history and each other.
I’m so disappointed that this year’s Heritage Festival had to be canceled. Weather, unfortunately, is a factor in outdoor events and this year it bit us, but we will not be dissuaded. We liked the idea of having the Heritage Festival in November as part of Native American Heritage Month, but we think that maybe we should move it up to September or early October. The odds of having good weather in those months are significantly better. Thanks to all who were planning to attend and for your understanding in having to cancel.
I would also like to thank all the folks that attended the Culver City gathering. It was such an enjoyable time getting to visit with old friends and meeting some new ones. I’m looking forward to seeing you all again real soon.
I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. We always have a house-full, and the memories made with family are priceless. Life is filled with ups and downs, or as we call them around our dinner table, highs and lows. And no matter how bad things may seem, we can always find something to be thankful for if we just look away from the negative for a minute.
In closing, I would like to wish you a safe and happy holiday season, Merry Christmas and many blessings in the New Year.
Migwetch
(Thank you)!
Wisdom from the Word: “I will remember the works of the Lord. Yes, I will remember the amazing things you did long ago!” Psalm 77:11.
Bama pi
(Later),
Rande K. Payne, Mnedo Gabo
Representative, District 6
31150 Road 180
Visalia, CA 93292-9585
559-999-3525 office
559-999-5411 cell
rande.payne@potawatomi.org