Names
08 Apr 2012 Leave a Comment
in Basketry, Beadwork, Knitting, Spirits Tags: Basketry, Beadwork, History, Knitting, Raven, Spirit of 13
When the Kaw Indians were removed from their lands in the 1800′s, many were removed to the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma. Great Grandma Elizabeth was part of that generation, but never left our family farm on the Kansas River.
In those days, names were based on need, and where you were in life. The family oral history has been lost on what her Kaw name was, but she was Elizabeth on the Farm.
Changing your name for your time in life isn’t a bad idea, in my mind. It helps focus you and others on who you are and where you are. Thus the professional naming of Copper Raven.
The Raven is a master shape shifter. Over my 60+ years I’ve been (in no special order) a pawn, a politician, a case work, grant writer, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, step-parent, business owner, artist and wife. I can relate to the magic of the Raven and their spirits. They mate for life, eat whatever shows up, and love to taunt Eagles. Sounds like me.
Copper? Copper is a metal that radiates healing properties. And I’m at a point in my life where I truly enjoy helping heal others. I certainly have been blessed with others healing me over the years. Including my wonderful husband of 12+ years.
And the beadwork, basketry and knitting I’m doing is certainly healing. I’ve maintained having classes over the years. And what I learn from students is much more than I feel I give to them. Listening to their stories is a blessing and reminds me that we’re all on this earth together.
So, if you could change your name – what would it be and why?
Until next week, seek shiny beads woven with strong fibers and wrapped in knitted fiber. Jana
Confidence Men – Book Review
14 Oct 2011 Leave a Comment
in Book Reviews Tags: Book Review, History, Politics, White House
Confidence Men: Wall Street, Washington and the Education of a President. By Ron Suskind
Occupy Wall Street might get fuel for their fire if they read “Confidence Men”. Based on 746 hours of interviews with over 200 individuals (including President Obama) Ron Suskind has written a story of great interest.
And story-telling is the focus of the Obama campaign and White House, stories written and delivered describing the Obama who knew how to run for office, but not run his office. Add the personal, long-term relationships between Obama staff and Wall Street, from Larry Summer To Secretary Geithner, and the links to Wall Street from the White House are way too chummy. Mr. Suskind has done a good job of linking the past with the present.
It was “what did you know” and “when did you know it” all over again. And its fairly clear candidate Obama knew enough that by 10/13/11 he could have and should have had rule changes and legislation to right the wrongs of the financial meltdowns of 2008.
The startling admission in the book by President Obama that he “needs a narrative in order to function” and without one he ends up in “relitigation” on every issue, was as disturbing as the information on the connections to Wall Street.
If you want a great education in the world of derivatives and “toxic assets” then “Confidence Men” is for you. Just don’t be surprised at the President’s comments – “the reason I was in the office (of Pres.) is because I told a story to the American people”. The next story he’ll need to tell is what his prescence in the White House has changed for the better.
Getting through the historical aspect of where CEO’s came from and what they have done might require pen and paper to draw your own map. Do it! It’s worth the time. The Kindle formatting was excellent.
In My Time – Book Review
20 Sep 2011 Leave a Comment
in Book Reviews Tags: Book Review, Democracy, History, Politics, White House
In My Time
By Dick Cheney and Liz Cheney
Full of historical data fashioned as only the Chaney’s can. From his beginnings with Don Rumsfield and President Ford to the final days of the George Bush Presidency, Mr. Chaney explains his outlook and position on the recent past.
The walk down memory lane is done with dignity and honors many. Even his discontent with some Cabinet members is not based on petty politics. It is shaped around values and a behavior system often not in sink with the younger generation. You can hear the frustration in the tone of his writing. You can also hear the love for his family, friends, members of the military and country.
A good read for those interested in politics and current affairs. An educational experience everyone should read. As an e-book, it had enough section stops to provide natural breaks.
It’s a keeper.
