When Winter Calls for Wisdom

The winter wind swept through the cottonwoods, carrying the bitter cold of another approaching storm. Beside the fire, the old Lakota elder watched the distant riders emerge through the falling snow.

The hunters were returning. Their weary horses and slow pace told him the hunt had been difficult. He searched for signs of meat, knowing that every family in camp depended upon what they brought home.

He had survived many winters, but age had not lessened the weight of responsibility he felt for his people.

Closing his eyes, he quietly sought guidance from the Creator. Not for his own comfort, but for the children growing hungry, the mothers keeping their lodges warm, and the hunters risking their lives.

As the riders drew nearer, he rose slowly to greet them.

Whatever they carried, whether abundance or disappointment, the people would face the coming days together.

For the elder knew that wisdom could not command the winter to end, but it could help his people endure.