A Time to Sing, a time to Dance, a time to Celebrate

February 18th, 2012 § Leave a comment § permalink

The Truly Amazing Elm Tree agreement at Shackamaxon perceived right before heaven and earth William Penn and Chief Tamanend representing their unique nations, created the understanding of peacefulness, friendship along with love. This assembly was not to trade or even acquire any territory but to rejoice and confirm the friendly relationship of love and dedication. Next towards the moving rich waters of the Delaware River and beneath the outstretched boughs of a Great Elm tree has been recognized what has been known as the Great Treaty.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Reviewing out of books relates this history regarding the agreement created among these two nations as:

elm tree, penn treaty, william penn, native americans, delaware indians, lenape indians

Great Elm Tree at Haverford Collage

There endures just the basic oral custom concerning the actual Great Elm, and the certain recollections associated with an aged woman that stated to have got seen the actual event as a youthful young lady. The woman recalled it strongly not due to the fact she recognized at the time its historic importance: parleys with the Indians had been frequent situations on the frontier in those days.                               She remembered it clearly due to the fact Penn had been the handsomest person she had ever before experienced, prior to or even since. This woman furthermore informed of the special event following the actual agreement formalities concluded. The attractive Penn had been wondrous, his state of mind overflowing. He consumed the Indian meals with relish, and settled to learn their own language so he could communicate with his brand new friends personally.

And then something remarkable occurred that created the night even more unforgettable to the young girl. The Indians started dancing in celebration, to jump as well as jump with the throb of the drums, and to whoop and chant their particular unusual sounds.                                        

Ultimately Penn could contain himself no longer. no occasion for dismal sternness. Then there he was, amazingly, there was Governor William Penn up dancing with the Indians, bouncing and screaming and wiggling as if trying to be more Indian than the Indians.

Turning from the wonder of the young lady at this good looking gentleman dancing with abandon, we can just picture the actual surprise of Penn’s party at this particular break of decorum. Had Penn completely taken depart of his senses?

For short lived time a few must have worried that Penn would remove off his garments to totally free his braches. 

There was a time for dignity, and a time for ecstasy. 

It is this agreement, the particular covenant created among these two nations that became a witness and an instance towards the nations when these two individuals’ communities accepted each other beneath the Great Elm on the banks of the awesome Delaware River: the Indians and the white man. 

This had been a strong precedent which kept within its Genetics a value of all individuals. It talked of trust and unity. It spoke of hope. This has been the creating blocks of independence.

These two nations, represented by their particular leaders, William Penn and Chief Tamanend, created a agreement of peace, friendship and love, one with the other. An important strong dedication was exchanged face to face and heart to heart. It was the required component needed for maintaining both these nations together within a enduring relationship of common admiration and love.

Of this Great Treaty, Voltaire, the French author stated: “the only league made between those nations which was never sworn to by oath, and never violated.”

Let’s celebrate; March 24 will mark first anniversary of the Trail of Hope.                                                                                                      Everybody is invited to join me in a commemorating walk this day from Penn Treaty Park to the descendent of Great Elm in Haverford. (11 miles)

Much more information to follow…. Come one, come all … Let’s Celebrate!

An Anniversary

June 28th, 2011 § Leave a comment § permalink

Exactly 35 years a go, a young man from Poland accompanied by his friend, decided to move to the United States of America. The pair was looking for adventure in an unknown land. They wanted to explore the rich land of promise and opportunity and see first hand what life in America was like.

I was one of those young men. In 1976 I arrived in the United States on the brink of America’s bicentennial. As a youngster, I was excited to come to America but I didn’t know what to expect. Here I am, 35 years later on the Trail of Hope, paying tribute to the Lenni-Lenape Indians as I walk 2,000 miles through six states.

It feels amazing to be embarking on this unique adventure. It is a journey like this which energizes me and reminds me of one of the many reasons I came to America. I’ve enjoyed learning and sharing the history of this country along the way.

For the longest time the principals of Love, Peace and Amity have been a part of my heart and soul. This tribute to the Lenni-Lenape Indians, as well as all the Indians who traveled along the Trail of Tears, stems from the importance and high regard I have for these principals.

As I walk though the “virgin” forests of Missouri, I can recall from historical lessons and memories of what life might have been like not 35 years but 300 years ago. Today in these beautiful forests there are no barb wire fences or public posting signs. Everything remains free of obstructions, open and untouched.

It is moments like this, when I feel a strong connection not only to nature but to the history which has been laid out on the very ground I walk on, where I feel great joy. It is an honor and a privilege to share and spread Love, Peace and Amity, 35 years later.

(Please share your thoughts and this blog. Sharing is Caring!)

Let Us Not Forgot The Ones Who Came Before Us

June 27th, 2011 § Leave a comment § permalink

Yesterday I arrived in Arcadia, Missouri. It is a small town of about 600 or so inhabitants. Arcadia is one of three towns which are sort of clustered around one area. The second town is Ironton and to the north of that is Pilot Knob. While exploring these towns I happened to come upon this plaque which is dedicated to the pioneers who settled in the area many years ago.

 I found the plaque very interesting and it sparked my thoughts to consider the plight of people who came to this country 250 to 300 years ago. Many of these people were persecuted in Europe and had the hope that a better life lie across the ocean. These people had a lot of faith and perseverance. At times, we don’t really think or talk about the early pioneers that built a life for future generations. It is important to take a moment to remember their dedication and struggle.

On an unrelated note I encountered a very generous individual during my travels recently. A few days ago, I met a gentleman named Greg. I was resting under a tree near a church when he came over to me and offered me some fresh water.  We spoke for a brief time as I shared with him a little about the Trail. After our quick exchange, I continued my walk.

Yesterday as I was heading towards Arcadia, Greg found me along the Trail. He stopped and gave me water and some Powerbars for the journey. It is the generosity of strangers like Greg that keep me going each day. Their kindness is inspiring and I am so happy to share a part of the Trail with each person I encounter.

(Please share your thoughts and this blog. Sharing is Caring!)

            Today I’m resting in Arcadia. The weather forecast is threatening really severe storms. Tomorrow I’ll continue walking towards Springfield.

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