APACHE GIRL

From snowy peak to coastal edge-

From sand lined bank to rocky ledge-

From open plain to ancient wood-

A proud and beautiful people stood-



And there she stands, Raven hair-

Deer's subtle gracefulness, the courage of Bear-

Thieves did come to strip her lands-

But pride she still holds in her hands-



Industrious, artistic, brave and strong-

They told great stories through dance and song-

Earth was mother, respected and kept-

Under Sky's star blanket, Her people slept-


And there she slumbers, Healing Eagle-

Her spirit walks, both humble and regal-

They forced her people into reservations-

She still sees a spirit in all of God's creations-
 
Stolen, abused, a land and people but vanish they did not-

From Abenaki to Zuni, they stood, they spoke, they fought-

Through trickery and brutality, their lands forcefully taken-

If given back their lands and rights, their
 
Apache girl, with heart so heavy, her people spread so thin-

know that they steal your spirit not, for it resides within-

Your culture and your pride still speaks in everything you do-

Though I know not your people's plight, my heart goes out to you-


For a dear friend... I pray you are well, Ameen...