I sheepishly admit that one of my all-time favorite films is "Practical Magic", starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman. I've adored this movie since I was about 13 and to this day could sit down and watch it any day of the week. The tagline for this movie fits today's subject perfectly: "There's a little witch in every woman."

The Anishinaabe believe that females have a constant and powerful connection to the earth and therefore a psychic power not to be diminished. With this power a… Continue

1. Something you hate about yourself.
My temper. I am very quick to respond to things and sometimes don't think my responses through. I have a good mind, which in a bad situation can be applied to make others hurt in the worst of ways.

2. Something you love about yourself.
My adaptability, for lack of a better word. I never give up because I know I'll always make it through. I can be funny when the occasion calls for it, and deadly serious when it doesn't. I always make people feel comfortable… Continue

Something that I see in a lot of places where Native American spirituality is discussed is the concept of an "Indian/Native American Name." The general belief seems to be that one simply chooses their name, either based upon what animals they like, what traits define them, or what just sounds cool (i.e. Strongheart, Running Eagle, Dancing Jaguar).

Though I cannot speak for other tribes, the process of receiving your Indian Name, or what we call your "Spirit Name" is much more complex and spirit… Continue

Let me begin this post by saying that there are many traditionalists whose immediate response would be
"NO." And while I tend to agree, I do think there are instances in which mixing of traditions and other beliefs could work...barring any spiritual discrepancies on either side.

I have many friends who practice another religion (some Christian, others Agnostic) who also attend my spiritual ceremonies each month. One particular friend of mine is Anishinaabe but is a devout member of a Christian… Continue