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JS: Robertjohn, we have an image of the Native American Warrior from TV and movies. What is a “warrior” to you?

Robertjohn: A warrior is one that knows himself. That truly is a place of sacredness and I am always learning who I am in relationship to all of life and the spirit world. I remember asking that same question to my elders, Leon Shenandoah and Grandpa Stone. The definition that I received from them was “the one who carries the bones of their ancestors on their backs.” In other words, the ones that pick up the teachings and traditions of the nation and carry them forward for future generations.

Is that all there is, just warriors? Are there not craftsmen, feeders and holy people? Are holy people warriors? If you look at Sitting Bull, he was a holy man but he carried a gun. I believe that was our error - picking up the gun. There is no healing with a gun; it only makes holes.

The gun is a technological instrument; the result is, when it is used, only the biggest gun wins. The warrior or spiritual warrior lovingly takes care of his family, takes care of his work, and takes care to honor all of life. All life is everything the Creator has made.

DB: Gary, would you explain what a lodge is and the role of the Lodge Keeper?

Gary: There are many kinds of lodges, Sun Dance Lodges, Yuwipi or Spirit Lodges and fasting lodges; but I am assuming that you are asking about the Initi Lodge, which is called a “sweat lodge” in today's world. Initi (also called inipi) or purification lodge is for cleansing the body, mind, emotions and spirit. A Lodge Keeper is one who has dedicated his life for the healing and well being of his family, nation and clan. Again, one does not pick up a lodge without years of learning, watching and fasting. There are songs that go with each lodge, usually four songs per round and four rounds per lodge. Each song has its meaning and purpose for the calling of the spirit world to assist us in this life and help in creating a balanced way of being.

These teachings, lodges and songs are usually passed down through the elders and the spirit world. Misuse of lodges or the songs can and does have the opposite effect of healing; so Lodge Keepers have a great burden of responsibility and obligation. Lodges are for prayer; and in prayer we are either asking for help or saying thank-you.

There are some who will grab at leading lodges and misuse these teachings and their lodges, and still, one will feel good; we call these “cowboy sweats.”

Authentic lodges will give you more than just a good feeling. If your prayers are sincere, you will begin to feel the changes almost immediately and those changes will continue for weeks, months and even years.

Robertjohn Knapp and Gary FourStar will be speaking at Sprout Café in Roswell, GA. Join us for “An Evening with the Elders,” Dec. 6th. For more information, call 770.992.9218 or email info@shinui.biz.