Category Archives: Block 5: 2010-11

While participating in ceremony in Pine Ridge I was continually struck by the realization that my personal spiritual journey was dependent upon the people around me, including my classmates, new Lakota friends, and even visiting Utes whose names I can’t … Continue reading →

Carl was my minister growing up.  Though I never enjoyed attending church, Carl gave me some incentive to put a smile on my face.  About my parents’ age, he wasn’t what you would expect from a religious leader; he was … Continue reading →

I have to chuckle at our word choice during class on Tuesday, simply because it was so far from the way I felt during the trip to Pine Ridge.  During the first sweat when Mike began to talk about me … Continue reading →

Today for afternoon class, we spoke to students from the Native American Student Union about issues that Natives and minorities face on campus, CC’s attitude towards such issues, and all sorts of Native and race related issues.  At some point … Continue reading →

That last day on the reservation will stand out as being the most life-altering experience of the whole trip.  I remember our plans were very much up in the air as it was uncertain if we were going to be … Continue reading →

Before arriving at Pine Ridge, I knew the experience was going to be rewarding yet difficult simultaneously.  When I think back on it, however, I feel these descriptors to be inadequate.  When people ask me how the field trip was, … Continue reading →

Ever since I’ve been back from Pine Ridge I have been frequently asked to describe my experience and what I’ve learned.  It’s difficult for me to verbalize all of the intangible and, in my experience, incommunicable events that took place.  … Continue reading →

I am still trying to fully understand what I experienced at Pine Ridge, a process that will in all likelihood take me years. Like many of you I tried to articulate my experiences to friends and family, and like many … Continue reading →

In Pat’s Pine Ridge blog, he mentioned the concept of bravery. This turned on an instant light bulb. Our class really is comprised of extremely brave individuals. When the darkness of the first sweat lodge sunk in and the singing … Continue reading →

I feel silly posting so soon again after my last one, but today is the day I signed up for, and I’ve done a lot of reflection and feel like I have unearthed some new insight into myself and my … Continue reading →