I believe that we shape and form ourselves everyday of our lives and that this freedom of action or inaction develops, molds and actually creates our spiritual entity-our individual spirit or what some refer to as the soul. Eagleman offers us the opportunity to share in that journey of freedom through walking with him through a series of responses to questions from a Humanities II course he once took. The question are varied, such as Who is God?, How did you become involved in your religions?, Is there a hierarchy within the Natural Way?, What are the rules, mircles, views of good and evil? A fascinating walk it is too. In a definite sense of Native Wisdom is a personal Creed.
Eagleman responds indepth to the multitude of questions in what might be called a rational manner. However, his responses are based on his experiences that have molded and created his own spiritual entity. Where his experiences have led him down a path different from others, he offers alternative ways of thinking from others' experiences.
I look forward to reading his other works, and especially would relish the opportunity to read his reflections on the Native American Life prior to the white man in this land, for instance about the intertribal wars, and more about his reflections and experiences of forgiveness.
I recommend reading Eagleman's Native Wisdom for anyone who desires another perspective on living a natural, simple life in connection with the universe.
Kenneth G. Stofft
Portland, OR